Woodlands snatches Golden Games crown by one point

Ron Smith Care Centre welcomed warmer weather at the end of August with the return of its annual Golden Games.

The competition took place from August 14 to August 21.

The opening ceremony on August 14 set the tone for the week, with each of the six wings performing a team chant. All were hoping to take the trophy from the 2025 winners, River Lodge Three.

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Throughout the week, the wings competed in a variety of games, earning points towards the overall title of winner.

The competition kicked off with the newspaper footrace on August 17, followed by the beanbag knockdown and the skyscraper-building challenge on consecutive days.

“The creativity and teamwork on display were impressive. The residents’ winning tower reached 114cm, while the tallest tower built by the staff teams reached 152cm,” said the care centre’s occupational therapy and recreation manager, Simoné Botha.

The highlight was the wheelchair egg-and-spoon race, with residents and staff competing side by side and carefully balancing their eggs to the finish. The event drew plenty of laughter.

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Each competition ended with a staff relay, with teams of four wheeling themselves along while keeping an egg balanced on a spoon. Six additional teams joined in, representing the recreation team, admin office, kitchen, the sisters and head office.

“As always, each day ended with a highly anticipated dance competition, with every wing competing for additional points.

“The teams brought incredible creativity to the dance floor as they performed to Shakira’s Try Everything,” said Botha.

After holding onto the title for two years, River Lodge Three was dethroned as Woodlands took the win by just one point.

Botha said the awards ceremony celebrated not only the titles won but also the spirit that filled the week.

“Everyone gave their all while supporting and encouraging not only their own team members, but those from opposing teams as well. The week was a celebration of life, connection and the importance of enjoying every moment.”

After finishing in sixth place in 2025, Woodlands claimed the title of Golden Games champions for 2026.

The prizegiving was particularly special for Ayanda Matthews, who attended the Golden Games for the last time before her retirement.

Reflecting on the atmosphere, she said she wished she could ‘package the love she feels in the room to be able to share it with others’.