THINK MAKHANDA'S A SLEEPY TOWN? CHAMPS ACTION BAR WILL CHANGE YOUR MIND
Friday, 28th March 2025
Champs Action Bar is where pool gets thrilling, goals spark cheers, and glasses clink late into the night. But the real magic? It’s the people—and one man behind it all: Tristan King. Always in the mix, keeping the energy high and the good times rolling (some say he never leaves), Tristan is the heart of Makhanda’s favourite spot. We finally got him to sit still long enough to reveal the secrets behind the buzz.
Champs: Where Makhanda Comes to Life
Champs isn’t just a bar; it’s the town’s unofficial headquarters. Cold beers, the perfect playlist, and a crowd that feels like family. Students, lecturers, professionals, and bartenders from all over town pull in for karaoke nights, drink specials, and that laid-back Champs vibe.
“What makes Champs different? It’s the people,” Tristan says. “We’ve got regulars who show up rain or shine. We’ve got students who bring their parents when they’re visiting. Everyone finds their space here.” The atmosphere hits that sweet spot—casual, welcoming, and never forced. Whether you’re shooting pool, grabbing a cold beer, or belting out karaoke, you’re part of the Champs story.
Drink Specials & Unbeatable Nights Out
Let’s cut to the chase—what’s pouring? Champs is where your wallet breathes a sigh of relief. The bar is known for its legendary Wednesday special: Double Brandy, Vodka, or Gin with a mix for just R25. On Fridays? Get in early for the R10 shooter special between 6 and 8 PM. If wine’s your thing, you’ll love the R10 glass of wine that keeps the good times flowing without breaking the bank. Want more? Champs fans say the beer is so cold it could legally apply for Antarctic citizenship. So draught fans can’t resist the 3L Castle Lite or Black Label Draught Towers for R219 available all day, every day.
Mondays are for the foodies: buy a burger and get another one free—beef or chicken, your choice. And Tuesdays? That’s pool night. “We’ve got the intermediate comps on the first Tuesday of the month, and then there’s the big one—the R1,000 winner-takes-all on the last Tuesday,” Tristan says with a grin.
“People love the routine,” he adds. “They know when they walk in, there’s going to be a special, a game, or someone they know waiting for them. That’s what makes Champs, Champs.”
Meet The King of Makhanda’s Nightlife
Tristan didn’t grow up dreaming of running a bar. “Honestly, I was just looking for a job,” he laughs. He started bartending at Pothole & Donkey, caught the right people’s attention, and soon found himself running Champs. Now? He knows a hundred customers’ orders by heart and makes sure the vibe is always spot on.
“This place is home,” Tristan says simply. “The staff, the regulars—we’re a family. We look out for each other, and we make sure everyone who walks in the door feels part of that.”
Even on his days off, he’s never really off. “I’ll pop in just to check the energy,” he admits. “If the music’s not right, or something’s off, I’ll notice. It’s in my blood now.”
What’s Next for Champs?
Champs isn’t slowing down. Karaoke nights on Thursdays (8–11 PM), hosted by comedian Illy, are already a hit. And coming soon? Live music every Saturday. “We’re working on something big with the live music,” Tristan reveals. “It’s in the pipeline, and I’m excited. It’s going to add a whole new vibe to Champs.”
He’s got his sights set on more than just great nights out. “For guests staying at the Graham Hotel or nearby, Champs is where they get the real Makhanda experience,” Tristan says. “People come in thinking there’s no nightlife here. Then they leave saying, ‘I didn’t expect that!’ That’s what we do—we surprise them.”
And if you missed last week? Champs hosted free El Bravo tastings—a fresh twist on the classic margarita. More surprises are on the way.
So next time you’re at Champs Action Bar—laughing with friends or catching the game—take a moment. Behind all the energy and action is a story built on hard work and heart, led by a guy who’s happy to let the bar do the talking. The drinks are cold, the games are hot, and Tristan King? He’s just getting started.
Want to be part of it? Follow Champs on Facebook: facebook.com/champsactionbar or Instagram: instagram.com/champsactionbar or drop by for a drink, they located on Scott’s Ave (between New Street and High Street, Makhanda), and soak up the atmosphere. Because this place isn’t just a bar—it’s a legacy in the making.
