![Participants light the Olympic torch in Van Wyksdorp Participants light the Olympic torch in Van Wyksdorp](https://www.westerncape.gov.za/sites/www.westerncape.gov.za/files/participants_light_the_olympic_torch_in_van_wyksdorp.jpg)
As part of the “Road to Albertinia”, the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) in partnership with the Western Cape Provincial Sport Confederation (WCPSC) and the Eden District Sport Council exhibited the values of the Olympic games and Olympism through various fun-filled activities in the town of Van Wyksdorp on 22 August 2015.
The focus of the exhibition was utilising sport as a tool to combat social issues affecting the town such as alcoholism and bullying amongst youth. The exhibition forms part of the “road to Albertinia” campaign, which is a build up to the Western Cape Olympic Day, which will be held in Albertina on 26 September.
Approximately 50 participants from Van Wyksdorp engaged in the activities of the roadshow. In celebration of Women`s Month, special emphasis was given to women`s involvement in sport by having motivational stories about the strength and courage of women in our society. Furthermore, interactive activities taught the participants the values of Olympism, namely i) joy of effort; ii) fair play; iii) respect for others; iv) pursuit of excellence and v) balance between body, will and mind and also the values of the Olympic Games, namely i)Excellence, (ii) Respect & (iii) Friendship.
Manager for the Eden District DCAS Sport and Recreation Office Jean Neethling and Former Protea Athlete from Van Wyksdorp Heidi De Kock lit the Olympic torch with the participants to symbolize "the light of spirit, knowledge, and life”. Heid De Kock and her husband kindly sponsored food for the Van Wyksdorp community so that spectators can enjoy a meal while watching the Olympic Activities. The town of Van Wyksdorp has a small population of approximately 500 people and the Olympic Roadshows prove DCAS’s commitment to taking sport to all the people of the province.
Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Anroux Marais, is passionate about promoting participation and fairness for women in sport. “August is Women’s Month and I firmly believe that we must support our young girls and women to develop their talents in sport. I am proud of programmes such as these, where my department ensures that young women are empowered and given the opportunity to speak about the challenges they face.” she said.
The exhibition will travel to Kranshoek on 29 August. DCAS and its partners are proud to spread the spirit of Olympism on the “Road to Albertinia”.
Tania Colyn
Head of Communication Service
Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Tel: 021 483 9877
E-mail: tania.colyn@westerncape.gov.za