High 5s all round at Tafta’s Senior Sports Day

As Older Persons week came to a close, our annual combined sports day took place on 4 October 2023 at the Addington Primary School grounds, South Beach.

Participating elders arrived in their numbers, full of energy and raring to compete against each other. With 9 different teams representing the various homes and clubs of Tafta, the air was abuzz with friendly rivalry. Previous champions geared up to defend their title and new challengers prepared to set the bar higher than before.

Tafta CEO, Femada Shamam, welcomed the participants, congratulating them on pushing the boundaries of ageing and reminding them of the importance of camaraderie.

Embracing active ageing

After listening to the house rules, and warm-up exercises led by Tafta staff, it was ready-set-go for the 6 team challenges. Divisional Manager of Operations, Yoshina Kistensamy, expressed her admiration for the elders who participated. “As staff of Tafta, we become familiar with our residents, learning each of their strengths and capabilities. As we 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 active ageing. Well done to each and every Sports Day participant. You gave it your all and made your Tafta family proud”

North Team wins trophy

After lunch, the North team (representing John Conradie House and Langeler Towers) emerged victorious, and received the floating trophy. “It is so important to recognize the power of uniting in purpose to achieve success,” said Shamam. “As we celebrate our 65th year of providing affordable care and support services to older people, our focus is on increased longevity.

“Our aim for this year was to build on partnerships and collaborations in order to sustain our organisation going forward, and we are so grateful to have received support for this event. Our heartfelt thanks goes to AVBOB for sponsoring tents, chairs, entertainment, fruit and water; to Allmed Healthcare Professionals for being on standby and providing water and juices; to 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.”