City gets communities moving for World Day for Physical Activity
08 April 2025
World Day for Physical Activity was observed on Sunday, 6 April 2025 – and the City showcased how it promotes active, healthy lifestyles for all ages, by rolling out exciting community-based programmes and events across various areas.
Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham, joined a group of community members at the Lotus River Community Hall where City Health commemorated the day and encouraged residents to stay active and improve their general health.
‘World Day for Physical Activity is a timely reminder of the importance of staying active for both physical and mental wellbeing. The City’s Recreation and Parks Department plays a critical role in ensuring that all communities have access to quality, inclusive and fun activities. I was so inspired by our elderly residents in Lotus River today who are active, know how to have fun and certainly impressed me with their energy and vigour during our fitness session! Through events like these, we aim to inspire lifelong habits of movement, fitness and health,’ said Councillor Francine Higham.
Kleinvlei Women Shine at Power Play Cricket Tournament
The third instalment of the Power Play for Women Cricket Tournament, held at the Kleinvlei Sport Grounds on Sunday, 6 April, delivered an action-packed day of fierce competition and celebration of women’s sport. Four teams took to the pitch – Kleinvlei Gladiatresses, HP Eagles (Hanover Park), Curro Wolfpack (Durbanville) and Derby Challengers – each showcasing incredible passion and talent.
The Kleinvlei Gladiatresses emerged as tournament champions, with the HP Eagles finishing as runners-up. The Gladiatresses dominated not only as a team, but also individually, claiming all the top honours. Shasha-Lee Valentine stole the show, scoring 89 runs to earn both the Best Batter and Player of the Tournament titles. Teammate Mishka Noah impressed with six wickets, earning Best Bowler, while Shineeq Leite was named Best Fielder for her outstanding defensive performance.
Westridge Learn-to-Swim Fun Gala dives into action
On Saturday, 5 April, Westridge Swimming Pool hosted a Learn-to-Swim Fun Gala with 166 young participants showcasing their progress in a fun and safe setting. The event forms part of the City’s broader drowning prevention and water safety efforts, reinforcing swimming as both a critical life skill and a form of physical activity that’s inclusive and enjoyable. With enthusiastic support from parents and caregivers, the gala celebrated confidence, community and the joy of learning through movement.
Manenberg’s Fearless Fitness Women Make Waves
At the Manenberg Swimming Pool, a vibrant group of women aged 32 to 74 – known as the ‘Fearless Fitness Women’ – are making a splash through the City’s aquatics programme. The initiative, led by the Recreation and Parks Department, offers water-based exercise in a safe and supportive environment.
With over 30 regular participants, the programme promotes health, mobility and social connection. For many, including 64-year-old Sheila van Rensburg, it’s been life-changing. Living with diabetes and a persistent shoulder injury, Sheila has found renewed strength and confidence through the sessions.
The City remains committed to expanding and supporting initiatives that get residents moving, learning new skills and engaging positively with their communities.
Caption 1: Councillor Higham joined the community in Lotus River.
Caption 2: The cricket tournament drew an avid group of players and supporters.
Caption 3: At the Westridge Learn-to-Swim fun gala, the young swimmers showed off their skills in the pool.
Caption 4: The ‘Fearless Fitness Women’ make a splash at Manenberg Swimming Pool.
End
Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
