The 2022 edition of the Arnold Classic Africa Multi Sport and Arts Festival took place from 3-5 June at Ruimsig Stadium in Roodepoort. The aim of the three-day festival was to get people physically active and show case different sporting codes.
The festival did not disappoint as revellers had the opportunity to participate in sporting activities such running, soccer, chess, baseball, basketball, karate and much more. Athletes across several sporting codes, from aerial sport, arm wrestling to martial arts and archery also had the opportunity to promote their skills, encourage new participation and compete on the global arena. Over 55 sporting codes were given a platform during this exciting sporting extravaganza.
Festivalgoers were also treated to beer tents and vendors with stalls selling food, refreshments and sporting merchandise. Children had a kiddies section with jumping castles and Disney mascots such as Donald Duck and Winnie the Pooh to entertain them.
“The revival of the entertainment sector is important for job creation and the creation of economic opportunities. The Arnold Classic Africa had up to 15 000 visitors. These visitors contributed to the local economy as some rented accommodation, wined and dined at local restaurants and visited the City’s many history-rich tourist attractions,” said Councillor Mpho Phalatse, the Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg.
In 2019 an estimated R46.6 million was spent by visitors at the Arnold Classic Africa. This year, the festival created work for 900 people.
“When we talk about repairing and rebuilding Joburg, we are not just talking about bricks and mortar, we are also talking about breathing new life into the social fiber of our City, through festivals, sports and the arts. These sectors stand as an expression of who we are, they bring together different races, classes, sexes, genders and classes,” added Mayor Phalatse.
Written by Ayanda Radebe
06/06/2022