“The Golden Games promotes active living among senior citizens within our communities”.
These were the words of Ray van Rooy, Executive Mayor of Bergrivier Municipality, who expressed the importance of hosting such an important sporting event for senior citizens and allowing them a platform to participate in healthy competition.
The Golden Games, which was held at the Rhino Park Stadium in Piketberg on Wednesday, 26 June, brought more than 200 senior citizens together from different service centres across the Bergrivier Municipal Area.
Bergrivier Municipality, in partnership with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS), West Coast District Municipality (WCDM), Department of Social Development (DSD), Right to Care and the Department of Health and Wellness hosted yet another successful Golden Games.
Representatives from the various centres competed against each other for top honours in the various sport codes namely: Jukskei; Rugby Ball Throw; Goal Shooting; Duck Walk; Ring the Stick; 500 m Brisk Walk; 4 x 100 m Sprint; 4 x 100 m Relay, 50 m Sprint, 100 m Sprint, Dominoes; Egg on a spoon 50 m; and so much more.
“Senior citizens will always have a crucial role to play in our communities. They hold all the local knowledge of the area, which is often highly valuable when considering implementing developmental initiatives. We admire and respect your invaluable input in society; your broad knowledge and life lessons; and the skills which you continue to transfer to the younger generation. By hosting this event, we are celebrating and acknowledging your meaningful contributions,” said Van Rooy.
The key aim of the Golden Games initiative is to connect senior citizens from different walks of life and provide them with information to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle, whilst competing in a relaxed and fun environment.
During the awards ceremony, all the participants were recognized for their sporting efforts on the day and therefore each person received a medal. The senior citizens were praised for their enthusiasm, competitiveness, and joyous spirit.
“On behalf of the Municipality, a massive thank you to all our stakeholders for your continuous support and contributions towards hosting this successful event. Thank you to our incredible guests, none of this would’ve been possible without you. Continue to be exemplary examples for our youth and broader communities,” Van Rooy concluded.
