Those are the words that describe today, especially if you are Chinese.

A triple eight figure is considered the luckiest combination of numbers in Chinese numerology and not only does today mark the start of the Beijing Olympics; two Inverell women are turning 88 today.

Thelma Loy and Edith Patrick are celebrating their birthdays and are hoping for good fortune.

For Mrs Loy, it is definitely a special day, especially because she is Chinese. Mrs Loy is the second daughter of the late Harry Fay 1st and she was born in Inverell on the first floor of the recently demolished Hong Yuen building.

She was one of nine children and at the age of 13, started her career working in Fays Cash and Carry grocery store.

Mrs Loy was then promoted to the cashiers position at Hong Yuen. In 1941, she married Thomas Loy and had three sons Wayne, Rodney and Kerry, who are still residing in Inverell with their families. Today Mrs Loy is celebrating with her family and is hoping for prosperity and luck.

“It is very special,” she said.

“The more eights, the luckier it is.”

Mrs Patrick who has lived in Inverell for 16 years is also looking forward to today.

“I am definitely buying a lottery ticket - and I am going for five eights,” she said.

“I might win millions but then again I might not.

“I would actually like to be turning eight not 88 - but I could be worse off at my age.”

Mrs Patrick has been married to Ron for 36 years and was born in Flemington. She went to Charters Business College and worked for 16 years for the public service. Before moving to Inverell in 1992, Mrs Patrick lived in Parramatta and then in Oakwood for 12 years. An avid reader and dog lover, Mrs Patrick was overwhelmed with how special her birthday actually is.

On Wednesday, NSW senator John Williams presented the women with some flowers to mark the occasion.

“I wish them both good fortune for their special day,” Mr Williams said