Midlife Bicycle Kicks & Turf Betrayals: When Sports Day Hits Back


A humorous reminder that showing up for your kids sports day doesn’t mean showing off your old moves. On Friday, May 30th, I did something bold. Brave. Possibly foolish.

Yes, a real one. Not in FIFA, or on PlayStation. But, on actual turf with actual gravity. And let me tell you (Maina), gravity did not appreciate the gesture.

I landed on my back… on turf! If you didn’t know, turf is just a thin green lie over concrete.

Cue: an hour of first aid and three hospital visits later, my back and I entered a committed relationship. One based on ice packs, painkillers, and regret.

Now, fast-forward to Tuesday, June 11th.

My pastor asked me to teach the midweek Bible study. My inner voice said, “Are you sure, Lord? I currently walk like I’m negotiating a ceasefire with my lower back.” Still, I said yes.

Topic? God’s Way: Submission, Self-denial, and Surrender.

A message my back had been faithfully preaching all week. I hobbled in like a rusted robot. But by the end of the 45 minutes, I was pacing, gesturing, and alive with energy.

So here’s the takeaway for all the parents and over-40 warriors, gearing up for your child’s school sports day:

By all means, show up. Cheer loudly. Maybe even jog a little. But when your body whispers, “We’re not 25 anymore,” listen.

There’s a fine line between showing youthful spirit and needing a physiotherapist for the next six weeks. Ask me how I know.

And yes… I may be quietly warming up for another bicycle kick. But please, don’t tell my physiotherapist.


Published by Joseph Ngaara

I am inspired by people's life stories

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