South Africa’s Paralympic athletes are back home after the closing ceremony, and they brought home seven medals and broke a few records along the way too!
Tokyo, Japan (06 September 2021) – The Paralympic Stars of South Africa have made their way home after the closing ceremony, and we couldn’t be prouder! The team aimed to make the nation proud, and they earned gold by coming first in our hearts.
Throughout the Paralympics, we shared details of the medal-winning events. They competed with their hearts and souls on display and showcasing true sportsmanship in every event along the way.
The entire team selected a word that would embody the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, and that word was “embrace”. No matter the outcome of the events, the team would embrace those around them.
“It’s not just about winning or losing, but to learn about teamwork, learn about sportsmanship, learn about discipline. The value of working together for a common goal. Have the emphasis on fundamentals, not just games.” – Erik Spoelstra
The Paralympic team deserve every praise so let’s take a look at what they accomplished.
Gold
- Anruné Weyers – Women’s 400m (T47) Race
- Ntando Mahlangu – Men’s Long Jump (T63)
- Pieter du Preez – Men’s Road Time Trial H1
- Ntando Mahlangu – Men’s 200m (T61) Race
Silver
- Louzanne Coetzee – 1500m Final (T11) Race
Bronze
- Sheryl James – Women’s 400m (T37) Race
- Louzanne Coetzee – Women’s Marathon (T12) in 3hr 11min 13sec.
Not only did the team bring home seven medals, but there were also many more records set at this year’s Paralympics. From National records to African and World records too!
We are beaming with joy, and we are sure Team South Africa is too! So give them all a round of applause, and be sure to stay tuned as we watch these stars rise and prepare for the next set of championships and, of course, the Paris Paralympics in 2024.