Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape — The annual Local Golden Games, a sporting event dedicated to promoting physical and mental health among senior citizens, took place on Monday, 05 August 2024, at Newrest Stadium in Lusikisiki. Organized by the Ingquza Hill Local Municipality in partnership with the Department of Social Development and the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture (DSRAC), the event brought together elderly participants from across the region to compete in various sports and activities.
In his opening remarks, Councillor Zamile Mhlongo emphasized the importance of regular physical activity for the elderly, stating, “The municipality continues to support this program as it contributes to good health and wellness of our senior citizens. This must not be a one-day event but an everyday activity to ensure that we have elders that are fit and active so that chances of getting illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension are minimized.”
The Golden Games, an annual event, serves as a qualifying competition for the district-level games. It features a variety of sports and activities designed for participants aged 60 and above. Among the activities were athletics, duck walk, rugby throw, dress-up, ball kick and pass, relay, and ring the stick, among others.
The event is a highlight for elders from service centres around Ingquza Hill, providing them with a platform to stay active, socialize, and enjoy the spirit of competition. The games not only promote physical fitness but also encourage mental well-being, as participants engage in activities that require concentration, coordination, and teamwork.
The success of this year’s Golden Games reinforces the commitment of the Ingquza Hill Local Municipality and its partners to the health and well-being of the elderly community. The municipality’s support for such initiatives reflects a broader goal of fostering active ageing and ensuring that senior citizens remain vibrant members of the community.
As the games concluded, participants and organizers alike expressed hope that the momentum of this event will inspire ongoing physical activity among the elderly, contributing to their overall health and quality of life.
The winners of the local competition will now prepare to represent the region at the district-level Golden Games, continuing their journey of active and healthy ageing.
