Fun at Mooi Hawens’ old age games
Families, friends, and community volunteers filled the grounds to cheer on competitors, and the day ended with certificates and prizes, but the biggest reward was the laughter and connections made.
RESIDENTS of Residentia Mooi Hawens, Poinsettia Park, and Jabulani retirement facilities proved that age is just a number when they took part in the much-anticipated Golden Oldies Olympic Games on September 27.
Also read: Uplifting Women’s Day programme held at Jabulani [Pics]
Hosted at Residentia Mooi Hawens, the event celebrated active ageing, camaraderie, and the joy of staying connected through fun activities. With colourful banners, festive team colours, and supporters cheering from the sidelines, the atmosphere was electric. Participants, some well into their 80s, competed in a variety of light-hearted, age-friendly events such as fishing, washing peg rush, beanbag toss, balloon toss, ring toss, paper collection, water-and-sponge relay, wooden spoon race, and even a “comrades” run that had everyone in stitches.
Residentia Mooi Hawens social worker, Mariza Kitching, said the games were about far more than medals.
“It’s about celebrating the spirit of our residents, their resilience, and giving them a chance to shine in a way that brings joy to everyone,” she said.
Families, friends, and community volunteers filled the grounds to cheer on competitors. The day ended with certificates and prizes, but the biggest reward was the laughter and connections made.
Also read: Toti Masonic Lodges treat oldies to lunch and fun
For former professional footballer Tinus Prinsloo, now a resident of Mooi Hawens, the day brought back fond memories.
“As a sportsman, I understand the importance of staying active. I really enjoyed the run, and since I’m new here, it was great meeting new people,” he said.
Volunteer and main organiser Elize Pelser promised the Golden Oldies Games will return next year, even bigger and with more old-age facilities joining in.
“A huge thank you to Elize and also to the sponsors who made this event possible in our community,” added Kitching.
Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.
