An Over-50s team from Vancouver, including Christopher Honey, an Associate Professor in the Department of Surgery, won the world soccer championship for their age category at the 2013 World Masters Games, winning seven games in seven days.
Vancouver United defeated international opposition with an overall plus/minus goal differential of 18-1. They allowed just two shots on goal.
Inaugurated in 1985, the World Masters Games are convened every four years as a counterpoint to the Olympics, for athletes 35 and older. It has evolved into the world’s largest multi-sport event in terms of participants.
The 2013 World Masters Games were held August 2 – 11 in Turin, Italy.
Vancouver United won its qualifying contests 2-1, 3-0, 2-0, 2-0; followed by a 5-0 quarter-final win and a 2-0 semi-final win. Dr. Honey won the golden boot with five goals.
Vancouver United after their first win in Turin. Photo: BC BookWorld