OXYGEN HEALTH OF THE NATION: 50 HOUR SPORTS CHALLENGE 2008

5 500 school children throughout South Africa participated in the Oxygen Health of the Nation 50-Hour Sports Challenge this year. The first event took place in Cape Town in September and again in Johannesburg in October. The aim of these events was to highlight the importance of physical activity in children's lives.

The event was born as a direct response to the results of the Health of the Nation research findings on the physical fitness levels of South African children. The study of 10 500 children from a broad spectrum of backgrounds across the country revealed trends of obesity similar to those of developed countries more than ten years ago. This research showed that it was important that South Africans kept active and participated in physical activity.

This event showed the children the value of sport and physical activity in building a positive future. It built a better understanding between different communities and cultures and provided everyone with an equal opportunity whilst participating in physical activity in a non-elitist, fun environment.

HEALTH OF THE NATION 2008 JOHANNESBURG
"KIDS’ 50 HOUR CHALLENGE A FAULTLESS ROARING SUCCESS"

Oxygen Medical Scheme from Old Mutual in association with Virgin Active and Lets Play enabled Sporting Chance to host our Health of the Nation: 50 Hour Sports Challenge in Rosettenville, Johannesburg.

The 50 Hours was a great success with 2500 children participating over the weekend. The children came from far and wide, from areas like Midrand, Soweto, and the Inner City, Alexander, Orange Farm and many more.

The event was kicked off by Dr Victor who spoke to the children about the importance of sports and the disadvantages of crime. Dr Victor then ended in style by singing for the children. Arnold Geerdts was the MC for the opening ceremony and added an incredible vibe to the session, which everyone thoroughly enjoyed.

The children learnt how to play sports such as cricket, soccer, tennis, table tennis, rounders, hockey, netball and touch rugby. Not only was team sport being coached but Virgin Active set up a health track which showed the children that they can exercise and keep themselves healthy through different exercises like skipping.

The Department of health was also there for the weekend providing the children with important information about general health, eating habits, mental health and how to live an all round healthy lifestyle.

South African Table Tennis and Gauteng cricket were also a part of the event, providing coaches for the entire weekend.

Thanks must be paid to Oxygen Medical Scheme once again for ensuring that the future of our children is a healthy one!