Minister Mbombo Congratulates Golden Games Athletes

Media Statement by Dr Nomafrench Mbombo, Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport

It is with great pride that I welcome back our Western Cape Golden Games athletes from the National Golden Games in Mpumalanga.

The team waved the Western Cape’s flag high and achieved three first place finishes. Johan van Zyl from the Metro region ended first in the 500m brisk walk (ages 60 – 69) and Christine Williams from the Metro ended first in the 500m brisk walk (ages 70 and older). The 4 by 400m relay team also finished first in their code.

The provincial department of Cultural Affairs and Sport is proud of all the athletes who took part in the Games. Our older generation is leading by example when it comes to showing their communities that you can stay fit and active well into your older years. We believe our golden games team also serve as role-models for our youth and demonstrate the benefits of becoming involved in positive activities and team sports. The Western Cape Government is committed to supporting and promoting sports, cultural and social activities in communities in order to provide our young people with an alternative to becoming involved in gangs and engaging in other risky behaviour such as abusing drugs and alcohol. We know this is critical if we want our youth to become successful, responsible individuals later in life. Our golden games team is a great example of what can be achieved through sport.

Congratulations to all our golden games athletes – the Western Cape Government is proud of your excellent performance at the national games.