By Emily Setona
QWAQWA – Phuthaditjhaba Stadium was abuzz with energy, laughter, and spirited competition as senior citizens from across Maluti-a-Phofung gathered for the Golden Games selection event on 15 July.
Organised by the Maluti-a-Phofung Local Municipality in collaboration with the Department of Social Development, the event brought together elderly participants from QwaQwa, Kestell, and Harrismith, all vying for a spot to represent the region at the upcoming district-level Golden Games.
Chairperson of the Maluti-a-Phofung Sports Committee, Maramane Mosia, said the event aimed to promote inclusion, wellness, and appreciation for senior citizens.
“This event is about inclusion, health, and honouring our elders. Today, they showed us what it truly means to age with grace and strength,” Mosia said.
The day featured a variety of sports and recreational activities, ranging from sprints and relays to fun games such as duck walk, ball passing, dress-up relays, and ring-the-stick. Whether on the track, the field, or at the Jukskei pits, the atmosphere was electric, with cheers from supporters, caregivers, and fellow participants filling the air.
One of the most heartwarming moments came from 86-year-old Ntumiseng Motjale, who won the over-70 category in Jukskei. Representing the Ikaheng Senior Citizens Club in Harrismith, she will go on to represent Maluti-a-Phofung at the district games.
“I have been playing Jukskei for a while now, and everything I achieve is through the grace of God. I am able to do what I do because of the strength from God, and I make sure to pray when I wake up in the morning and when I go to sleep at night. Thank you,” she said.
Her story captured the spirit of the Golden Games—resilience, purpose, and the belief that growing older doesn’t mean slowing down.
More than just a sporting event, the day was a celebration of life, health, and community. As the selected athletes prepare to represent Maluti-a-Phofung at district level, they do so with the full support of a proud and inspired community behind them.
