Olympic gold for GHA tenants
Published by Glasgow Housing Association on Mon 20 Aug 12 @ 15:08
GHA tenants have followed in the footsteps of Team GB stars Mo Farah and Jessica Ennis - by winning gold medals at a special Olympics for older people.
Hundreds of tenants from GHA sheltered housing complexes across the city took part in the Summer of Sport.
The finals were held at the SECC as part of the World Congress on Active Ageing exhibition.
The GHA Olympic events included giant jenga, carpet bowls, curling, Frisbee and indoor golf.
Hugh Boyle, 69, from Sandford Gardens Sheltered Housing Complex in Baillieston grabbed the limelight with two silver medals and a gold.
Hugh said: "It was great fun and everyone really enjoyed taking part. I was really surprised to win three medals - especially as I've never previously played any of the games before.
"It's been a brilliant event as everyone got into the spirit of the games in their complexes."
Sprightly 101-year-old Bill Lawson, a tenant at Gallowhill Sheltered Housing Complex in Carmunnock, loved taking part in the qualifiers.
Bill, a former member of the Springburn Harriers who puts his longevity down to a bottle of Belhaven Best every day, said: "It's nice to see everyone getting involved.
"It's all good because it helps us keep active. I could try the 100m - but they might have to give me a 99-metre start!"
GHA's partners in the programme, Glasgow Life, provided coaching and equipment for the athletes - with competition between sheltered housing complexes taking place throughout July.
As well as the physical activity, there was a chance for tenants to give their brains a workout with a quiz, table games and an art competition.
Margaret Moore, GHA's Assistant Director of Community Partnership, said: "The games were popular in the complexes and tenants really enjoyed themselves.
"At the same time it really brought people together and increased their physical activity."
