“The Golden Games have become a major event on the annual calendar for our senior citizens. The competition gets fiercer by the year.”
So said Ray van Rooy, Executive Mayor of Bergrivier, who gave recognition to all senior citizens, calling them the “foundation and pillars of strength” on which all communities in the Bergrivier municipal area are built.
The event, which brought more than 200 senior citizens together from 10 different service centres, was held on Wednesday 21 June at the Rhino Park Sports Field in Piketberg.
At the event local seniors spend the say together and not only get a chance to socialise but also promote an active lifestyle thanks to the competitions.
The Bergrivier Municipality, in partnership with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS), West Coast District Municipality (WCDM), Department of Social Development (DSD) and the Bergrivier Motivated Women (BMW) hosted yet another successful Golden Games in Piketberg.
Representatives of the various centres competed against one another 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 and so much more.
“Senior citizens still have a fundamental role to play in our communities,” Van Rooy said.
“Because they hold all the indigenous knowledge of the area, which is often highly valuable when considering implementing developmental initiatives.
“We admire and respect your valuable input, broad knowledge about life and the skills which you are transferring to the younger generation. By hosting this event, we are celebrating and acknowledging your meaningful contributions.”
The key aim of the Golden Games is to connect senior citizens from different walks of life and provide them with information on maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle while competing in a relaxed and fun environment.
At the awards ceremony afterwards all participants were recognised 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.
“I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude to all the stakeholders for their continuous support and contributions towards hosting a successful event,” Van Rooy said.
“Thank you to our incredible guests, none of this would’ve been possible without you. Continue to educate and motivate our communities.”
