In the latest episode of Spin Sessions, viewers were treated to an in-depth conversation with the legendary Sparky Hendricks, a name synonymous with the South African spinning scene. In Episode 11, Sparky shared his inspiring story of how he climbed to the top of the spinning game and remained relevant after more than two decades in the sport.
Sparky, who proudly represents Eldorado Park, reminisced about his early days in spinning, where he first fell in love with the sport by watching performances on the street corners of his neighborhood. His journey took a pivotal turn when he met Faisal, the original captain of the Southside Crew, who became his mentor and introduced him to the world of professional spinning. Sparky vividly recalled his first gig in Bloemfontein and how Faisal nurtured his early career.
As Sparky took over the leadership of Southside Crew from Faisal, he faced the challenges of managing a group of seasoned spinners. He spoke candidly about the difficulties of managing a team of grown men, but also highlighted how the team dynamics evolved over the years, especially when the crew size reduced to a core trio. With teammates like Wijaro and Kayla, Sparky found it easier to coordinate and execute their routines, allowing each member to showcase their unique skills.
Sparky also emphasized the importance of presentation in spinning, both in terms of personal appearance and the condition of the car. He believes that cleanliness and neatness are key to gaining recognition and securing bookings, as they reflect professionalism and dedication.
The episode delved into the technical aspects of Sparky’s spinning career, including his decision to move from an E30 to a multivalve motor, which allowed him to maintain his vehicles with less hassle and more time to spend with his family. He also discussed the challenges and rewards of owning and managing two spin cars—one with a multivalve motor and the other with a V8—highlighting the differences in performance and reliability between the two.
Throughout the episode, Sparky’s passion for the sport was evident, particularly in his approach to creativity and showmanship. He attributes much of his success to always having something up his sleeve to wow the crowd, a lesson he learned from his mentor Faisal.
As a veteran in the spinning scene, Sparky continues to inspire and lead by example, whether he’s performing on a local track or at a high-profile corporate event. His commitment to the sport, his team, and his community shines through in every aspect of his career, making him a true icon in the world of spinning.