50 days until Christchurch Casino Golden Oldies come to town

09 February 2018

Hagley Park is soon to be overrun with teams of brightly coloured, singing sports enthusiasts as the Golden Oldies and their supporters come to town for one of Christchurch’s largest sporting events.

Our city is gearing up to host the Christchurch Casino Golden Oldies Sports Celebration 2018 with more than 5,000 participants taking part in sports festivals during a month-long celebration of fun, friendship and fraternity.

Festival coordinator Ellie Bigsby from Vintage Sport and Leisure says the Christchurch event is significant, as it’s the first time in history that all Golden Oldies events will be held in the same host city.

“Historically, Golden Oldie events have been held around the world every two years, with each city hosting a different sport, but this year we’re bringing it to Christchurch and invite everyone to come along and join the celebrations,” Ms Bigsby says.

Formed in 1979, the Golden Oldies focuses on making sport less serious and more social, where passion for a particular sport is more important than age or ability.

Players must be over 35 and men and women from all over the world can register to compete in sporting codes, which include rugby, cricket, netball, football, hockey, golf, lawn bowls, squash and softball.

Linda Falwasser, General Manager of Attraction at ChristchurchNZ, the city’s economic development, tourism and major events agency, says the sports festival is a great celebration and an opportunity for Christchurch to share our new city with the world.

“We’re excited to welcome the Golden Oldies to Christchurch and encourage the whole community to get involved, check out the games and enjoy the experience,” Ms Falwasser says.

“Christchurch is open and ready to welcome visitors and I’m sure the local business community will agree that we have so many amazing sights, services and experiences to share with our visitors.”

From café-dwellers to adventure-seekers, Ms Falwasser says there’s always plenty to see and do in Christchurch.

Ms Bigsby says the local community can also support the event by volunteering their time. “We’re calling out for anyone available during the month to contact our VSL volunteers manager Mike Dolden, michael@govsl.com or check our website on www.christchurchgoldenoldies.com for more information,” Ms Bigsby says.

ends

© Scoop Media