OPEN Air School for the Physically Disabled recently held its senior prize-giving ceremony.The guest of honour at the prize-giving was Mr Ross Cooper, a benefactor and friend to Open Air School.Major prize winners were celebrated on the day, with the top award, the Cedric Hilson Honour Prize, going to Caden Maharaj.
This prize was founded by Mr Herbert Bishop, assisted by other friends of Mr and Mrs Hilson in memory of their son, who was a pupil at the OAS from 1940 until his death at the age of 13 in 1945. Although debarred by delicate health from the usual childhood activities, Cedric with great determination and fortitude, led a full and useful life. His mature mind and sense of humour made him a delightful companion to many, while his courage and uncomplaining acceptance of pain were an inspiration to all who knew him.
The memorial prize is awarded annually to the learner at OAS whose courageous effort in the face of physical difficulties best matches Cedric’s example.
The Monty Goldstein Memorial Prize, runner-up to the Cedric Hilson Honour Prize, presented by Edwin Swales VC Shellhole for Perseverance and Self Control, was awarded to Musawenkosi Dlamini and the school Dux was Siphesihle Nhlakanipho Mnqayi.
The Shelley Altshuler Memorial Prize, awarded to a learner or member of the public who promoted contact between learners and learners from other school and the public, was awarded to Unathi Mtolo and the Roberta McLean Award for outstanding quality was awarded to Lwando Ntinkinca.
Sportsman of the Year was Simingaye Shabalala, disabled Sportsman of the Year was Musawenkosi Dlamini, Sportswoman of the Year was Sthabile Mnyandu and disabled Sportswoman of the Year was Zenande Mabanti.
