Outstanding athletes in various sporting codes such as rugby, golf and chess were acknowledged at the annual Eden Sports Awards ceremony at the George Civic Centre in George on Friday, 7 November.
The event was the first of four regional Sports Awards events held this year. The achievements by athletes who are committed to their chosen sports were acknowledged at the awards. The event was hosted by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport in partnership with Eden Sport Council and George Municipality.
Jaco Brink, winner of the Sportsman of the Year award, who has his South African colours in shooting, was surprised at receiving the top honours of the evening. “I am proud of the accolade, with shooting not being a popular spectator sport it will assist greatly in raising awareness of the sport” said Jaco.
Rower Sizwe Lawrence Ndlovu , winner of gold at the 2012 Summer Olympics, was the keynote speaker at the event. His message to the athletes who attended the event was that they should always remember to give back to their communities and sports. ‘Helping others warms my heart. I take the principles that I learn from sports and apply them to my life’ said Ndlovu.
DCAS and its partners support these athletes in their goals, and aims to provide them with the necessary support to continue to excel at sports in the Western Cape. The next Sports Awards ceremonies will take place in the West Coast and Overberg on 14 November.
Annerie Pruis-Le Roux
Acting Head of Communication Service
Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Tel: 021 483 9730
E-mail: annerie.pruis-leroux@westerncape.gov.za