Summer Olympics

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

The Olympics take place over the summer culminating with a Closing Awards Ceremony and Barbecue. The events are run by a committee.

The membership is divided into two teams--"Green" and "White". Members and their families are designated either "Green" or "White" sequentially, based on the order in which their names appear in the Club Directory.
There are two Generals and eight Captains for each team. Each team Captain has the responsibility for one of the eight major activities. Team Generals and Captains are responsible for making sure that individuals who sign up for events show up, and that all events are fully staffed and participants exhibit good sportsmanship. There are adult and junior events. Junior events are for ages 15 and under.

Events include: Golf - Mixed Scramble, Putting and Chipping; Basketball - Free Throw Contest and 1/2 Court Game; Lake and Boating - Kayaking and Paddle Board; Games - Man Jongg, Bridge, Scrabble, Canasta; Tennis; Swimming; Volleyball; Lawn Games; Toddler Activities; Cooking and the finale of Tug of War.

A scoreboard reflecting the results is kept at the Clubhouse throughout the summer.

We give out T-shirts for each team so that they can be worn for the events and to support the team throughout the season.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

This idea was implemented by our members who had fond memories of their summer camp days. They wanted to recreate color wars. We do not do this every year, but every 4 to 7 years.

The event creates great camaraderie among our members and some healthy competition. It creates an environment where young and more mature members can come together and get to know one another.

The implementation is described in the description of the event.

Our members love this event because it is on-going throughout the summer season. It offers a lot of fun, as well as some friendly competition among members!