Just as the South African commemoration of Older Persons week came to a close, The Association for The Aged (TAFTA) hosted their annual combined sports day on 4 October 2023 at the Addington Primary School grounds in South Beach.
Participating elder residents arrived in their numbers; full of energy and gusto, rearing to contest against their rivals. With 9 different teams representing the various homes and clubs of Tafta, a friendly competitiveness sizzled through the air as previous champions geared up to defend their title and new challengers prepared to set the bar higher than before. A welcome address by Tafta’s CEO, Femada Shamam, motivated elders to exercise camaraderie throughout the tournament and offered congratulations on pushing the boundaries of ageing.
With an introduction to the house rules and warm-up exercises facilitated by Tafta staff, it was ready-set-go for the 6 team challenges that made up the final scores. Divisional Manager of Operations, Yoshina Kistensamy expressed her admiration for the elders that participated, saying; “As staff of Tafta, we become familiar with our residents, learning each of their strengths and capabilities. Their individual achievements and our organisational achievements become amalgamated as we celebrate milestones and journey through life together. It is so heart-warming to see the growth, potential and vivacity that can be found in the golden years of life. We applaud those who embrace new pursuits and take an active-ageing approach to achieving goals. Well done to each and every Sports Day participant, you gave it your all and made your Tafta family very proud!”
The competition ended with a display of war cries by each team after lunch was served, and the victorious North team representing John Conradie House and Langeler Towers residents were gifted the floating trophy during a cheerful awards ceremony. “It is so important to recognize the power of uniting in purpose to achieve magnificent outcomes. As we cement our 65th year in providing affordable care and support services to older people, our focus is on increased longevity, so that our legacy may continue for future generations. Our aim for this year was to build on our partnerships and collaborations in order to sustain our organisation going forward, and we are so grateful to have received that support for this event. Our heartfelt thanks goes out to AVBOB for sponsoring tents, chairs, entertainment, fruit and water. To Allmed Healthcare Professionals for being on standby and providing water and juices, Saayman Danks Electroplating for sponsoring snacks and muffins, and to Durban Maintenance and Building for sponsoring structural equipment. Your assistance has proven that we can achieve so much more by working together towards the common vision of a world supportive of older people,” said Tafta CEO, Femada Shamam.
To view more highlights from the Sports Day and other Tafta activities, follow their social pages on Facebook and Instagram or visit their website at www.tafta.org.za
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