Knysna Oyster Festival Broadens Horizons for Social Inclusion

A wide variety of activities has been arranged to promote social inclusion in the Western Cape at the Pick 'n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival which runs from 6 to 15 July 2012. This is a result of a partnership between the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport and the festival organisers.

• The Knysna Marathon will start at 07:00 on 14 July 2012, with a 5 km Fun Run for people who would like to participate in a less strenuous run. The department will provide a new specialised chip timing system that will be used in the South Western District for the first time.
• The Boccia Disabled Tournament features a game of muscle control and accuracy which requires high levels of concentration. This game is ideal for wheelchair-bound athletes with cerebral palsy or similar neurological conditions. This annual event is expected to attract more than 300 physically disabled participants and will start at 10:00 on 12 July 2012. The department will make available transport for the participants from various towns and provide audio support for spectators and first aid support for participants.
• The Knysna Football Tournament will take place on 7, 8, 14 and 15 July with games starting at 10:00 at various venues. Soccer is a popular sport in Knysna and many participants are expected to be eager to compete. The department will pay referees' fees and provide catering for referees and officials, match balls for the games and audio support for spectators. A media truck with a big screen on its roof will provide the public with an opportunity to watch Euro Soccer Cup matches.
• The New Games (dominoes, klawerjas and chess) organised by the department will take place between 9 and 13 July from 14:00 until 16:00 (except on 13 July when games will run from 10:00 to 13:00). The Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Dr Ivan Meyer, supports the inclusion of chess because he believes that this game has a positive impact on the way that the youth makes decisions. Games will be played at nine different libraries with equipment supplied by the department.

The department's efforts during the Knysna Oyster Festival are intended to support social inclusion of a diverse group of people, especially disabled people, through assisting and supporting their participation in various events. Over time, this kind of support will leave a sport and recreation legacy in the area.