‘Chasing the Sun’, the story of SA’s heroic World Cup champions, coming to DStv platforms

From a sport defined by its past, and a country defined by its differences, comes the story of a team that chooses to believe in something more.

“Chasing the Sun” is a powerful SuperSport documentary made in collaboration with the Springboks and tells the rousing tale of their path to redemption and World Cup glory in 2019.

The five-part documentary series, to be broadcast on M-Net, will debut on Sunday, October 4 (6pm) and conclude on November 1, on the eve of the one-year anniversary.

It will also be available on Catch Up, SuperSport and Showmax.

The famous triumph remains a powerful memory, but the story behind the famous win is perhaps even more remarkable.

SuperSport was granted unprecedented access to the Springboks both in the build-up and during the tournament which helped produce incredible behind-the-scenes footage that goes to the heart of what it took to claim the Webb Ellis Cup last November.

“Chasing the Sun” is no ordinary story. It is a story about changing fortunes and changing mindsets, about pressure and hope, about recognising the power of inspiration, and learning what representation truly means.

The moving documentary charts the Boks’ rise from dejection and under-performance to the pinnacle of international rugby, so vividly demonstrated when captain Siya Kolisi lifted the trophy in Tokyo.

With unprecedented access and exclusive contributions from coaching staff, players and commentators, the documentary is the story of how a team, a nation and the world came to discover that we are all indeed stronger together. “Chasing the Sun” is infused with humour, technical insights and emotional engagement that will reveal the Springboks like never before.

“Storytelling is at the heart of what SuperSport does,” explained Gideon Khobane, chief executive of SuperSport. “This is a wonderful, uplifting story that talks about confronting challenges, dealing with differences and forging a team. It is a metaphor for the South African experience itself and it is beautifully told in a moving, memorable documentary.”

While rugby remains largely in limbo due to the pandemic, “Chasing the Sun” will provide a potent reminder of the majesty of the Springboks.