Noakes' Order of Mapungubwe celebrated

Top honours: Attending the celebration of Prof Tim Noakes' award are (from left): Lionel Opie, Bruce Fordyce, Lewis Pugh, Tim Noakes, Helen Moffett, Tim Harkness, Wieland Gevers, Ed Ojuka, Peter Chapman and Morne Du Plessis.

The Research Unit for Exercise Science and Sports Medicine hosted a function on 13 February to celebrate Professor Tim Noakes' Order of Mapungubwe, which he received in 2008.

The event featured speeches by several luminaries who have played a part in Noakes' life and career, including Professor Wieland Gevers, who is also a recipient of the award, former Springbok rugby captain Morné du Plessis, and long-distance champion Bruce Fordyce, among others.

Noakes said that he asked everyone to speak about excellence and science, not about him, but this didn't prevent the odd jibe.

Top honours: Prof Tim Noakes celebrates receiving the Order of Mapungubwe.

"I'm his doctor, and he's an appalling patient," said Dr Peter Chapman. "He's so healthy, it's disgusting!"

Instituted in 2002, the Order of Mapungubwe is the South African equivalent of a knighthood, being the country's highest honour. It is awarded by the state president for achievements that have served South Africa internationally.