Excited” residents of a Birmingham nursing homes have celebrated the Commonwealth Games by creating their own version of the tournament, complete with a winner’s ceremony and multi-sport competition.
Metchley Manor Edgbaston organizes a week-long garden tournament in honor of the Games, held in Birmingham, where residents compete against Care VK team members at various sporting events.
The care home holds its own pétanque, tennis and table tennis competitions, which has created “excitement” among residents.
My husband Alexander competed in the Commonwealth Games and swam for Scotland so this is a lovely way to remember him and enjoy the excitement the Games brought to Birmingham
Joan McNeish, 85, who lives in the care home, said: “My husband Alexander competed in the Commonwealth Games swimming for Scotlandso this is a great way to remember him and enjoy the excitement the Games have brought to Birmingham.”
Staff member Zoe Doherty said “it’s a great time to be a Brummie,” while the care home general manager Kim-Marie Newton said the Games-themed activity was a “topical way” to start the tournament. to celebrate.
“With the Commonwealth Games literally right around the corner, we knew we had to celebrate this fantastic moment in Birmingham history,” said Ms Newton.
“Here at Metchley Manor, we know how important physical activity is when it comes to general wellbeing, so we always encourage residents to stay active – so our own Commonwealth Games themed activity was a great, up-to-date way to do just that. to do.
“There is a fantastic atmosphere in the city at the moment and that is great to experience. It sure is a great time to be a Brummie! We want to wish all British athletes the best of luck – we certainly won some of our own medals here!”
A special award ceremony will take place on August 8, with the victorious residents receiving their own gold medals.
Residents of the care home will also have the opportunity to attend the official Games Athletics competition on 3 August.
More than 5,000 athletes will compete in 280 events across 19 sports at the Commonwealth Games, which will include an integrated parasport program, over 11 days.
Birmingham got the Games after South Africa’s scheduled host Durban withdrew due to financial difficulties.
In her message delivered by the Prince of Wales on Thursday, the Queen described Birmingham as “a pioneering city that has attracted and embraced so many throughout its history”.