Had enough of hibernating and inactivity due to Covid-19? Then join the “oldies” for some fun and friendly rugby at the 2022 Cook Islands Oldies Rugby Mini Festival.

Starting on Saturday May 7, the two-day sports bonanza is to be held at the Arorangi Sports grounds in Puaikura.

“Like all events, Covid has impacted the number of visiting teams and players which have exceed 300 plus in previous years,” organiser Matariki Wilson said.

“This year two Kiwi rugby clubs with strong Cook Islands ties are heading to Rarotonga for the bi-annual festival and the call is going out to all local rugby players aged 35 years and over to lace up and give our visitors a good run on the field, and share our island hospitality.”

Wilson said golden oldies sports are a testament to endearing and enduring friendships made in sports.

“It’s a space for those over 35-years to keep playing rugby in an enjoyable atmosphere both on and off the field.

“It’s an opportunity for past players to stay active and take part in rugby without bumps, bruises, aches and pains of serious competition but at the same time play to your best abilities.”

Wilson said anyone without a team of 15 players to join has “no worries” as they can join as an individual and “we can put you in a team”.

Entries are open to both men and women aged over 35-years-old.

“The key feature of oldies rugby is the coloured shorts worn by players to indicate their age division and what level of physical contact can be applied.

“A player wearing red shorts indicates that they cannot be tackled to the ground or pushed of their feet.

“Any player in red shorts with the ball can only be ‘held’ or ‘claimed’ in the spirit of golden oldies rugby.”

This involves defending players wrapping the ball carrier to prevent further forward movement, Wilson said.

Players in gold shorts (aged 65 to 69) are not to be tackled.

Players in purples shorts (aged 70 to 79) cannot be tackled or touched – instead defending players must remain in front of the ball carrier with arms outstretched to prevent forward movement but to allow the ball carrier to play the ball.

Games run for half and hour halves with unlimited substitutions.

“If you and your mates are keen to join the festivities and stretch your legs and joints – touch base with event hosts Turama Pacific Travel to register your interest.”

Individual registration fees are $100 per person that will include two days of games including liquid refreshments in the form of water for teams before the game and beer after for rehydration, as well as a ticket to join the finale night feast and show scheduled for Monday,  May 9. 

To register interest – write to event organiser Matariki Wilson on Matariki.wilson@dmck.co.ck and we will be happy to have you join our mini rugby festival!