Rugby: Owens to represent Golden Oldies

Welsh referee Nigel Owens. Photo / Sarah Ivey

Rugby World Cup final referee Nigel Owens will be an ambassador for the 2016 Golden Oldies rugby festival in Cardiff.

Organised by Auckland-based Vintage Sports & Leisure Ltd, the tournament is expecting over 100 teams to participate in the festival from 25 countries, including up to 20 teams from New Zealand.

The tournament will be the 21st anniversary of Golden Oldies rugby.

Owens said he is honoured to be an ambassador for the festival.

"Keeping people in the game is crucial to the development of clubs throughout the world and I am thrilled that Golden Oldies will be celebrating their 21st anniversary in the heart of world rugby, Wales.

"Cardiff has proven itself as a magnificent host of major events. Just look at its booming reputation during the Rugby World Cup. I have no doubt it will continue to showcase this renowned hospitality for the thousands of visiting players and supporters during the Golden Oldies festival. I might even have to bring my playing boots instead of my refereeing ones," he said.

Peter McDermott, Festivals Director for Vintage Sports & Leisure, said having personalities such as Owens and Stephen Larkham (appointed previously) as ambassadors, captures the true essence of Golden Oldies sport, which is all about cementing friendships and enjoying the company of like-minded people.

"You know that if you get the chance to sit down and have a chat and a drink with either Nigel or Stephen you are going to be enriched by the experience," he said.

Organisation of the week-long festival in August is well advanced, especially the opening ceremony and the finale dinner at Millennium Stadium.

"Over 3500 people will sit down for the finale dinner, the biggest sit-down meal ever held at the venue and one of the biggest ever in Wales. It certainly will be a great evening, steeped in the traditions of Welsh rugby," he said.

Golden Oldies festivals are open to men and women over 35 years of age from any part of the world and any ability.