What was supposed to be a joyride nearly ended in tragedy, when six youths from Musina nearly lost their lives on New Year's eve.

The youths were travelling on a bakkie when the driver lost control in a curve. Two of them were seriously injured, while the rest escaped with minor injuries.

One of the injured is Tshililo Sikhwari (23), who told his story: “It happened so fast as we approached a curve just outside Harper Mine in Musina. We were happy and longed to see the New Year when the driver immediately lost control. We are happy that we have survived.”

Tshililo said the driver was speeding and the curve was so sharp that it was impossible for him to control the car. “Even experienced racers like Michael Schumacher would have missed that curve. We heard a big bang before the car rolled several times and dropped all of us. There was a huge cloud of dust and we could not even see what was happening. I could not remember what happened and next until I found myself in a hospital bed on New Year’s Day.”

Tshililo could not confirm or deny that they were under the influence of alcohol. “On that I cannot comment, but just know that we were happy and the mood was vibrant. I strongly believe that we were saved by the grace of God and we have learnt the hard way. While other people were celebrating New Year’s Day, we were nursing our pains. We really thank God for sparing our lives.”

He says he feels much luckier because one of his friends had a broken neck.