The South African Special Olympics team that brought home 49 medals with the majority in gold are to be honoured by the Presidency—an important moment of acknowledgement that should inspire more support for these athletes:
Pretoria, South Africa (02 October 2023) — Earlier this year, South African Special Olympics athletes achieved an extraordinarily special feat; proudly earning 49 medals at the Special Olympics World Summer Games.
Theirs was a display of unwavering dedication that epitomised so many South African qualities, with unity and support at the forefront.
The prestigious event unfolded in Berlin this past June, where South African Special Olympics stars set the tone for a season gleaming with gold as ignited early on by Kamogelo Moncho. Following Moncho’s 5000-metre final win, Team South Africa would go on to win 22 gold medals across disciplines.
But, the medal haul didn’t slow down there. In addition to the good gold, the South African Special Olympics squad bright home 20 silver and 7 bronze.
Upon their return home, the team was welcomed with a hero’s embrace at O.R Tambo International. A few months later their achievement continues to shine, with the latest celebrations set to see President Ramaphosa host and celebrate the team at the Union Buildings—only fitting for how much pride the squad brought to SA.
“The interaction with Team South Africa at the Union Buildings is part of President Ramaphosa’s ongoing commitment to encourage and celebrate excellence among South Africa’s sports women and men, and the President’s recognition of the role of sport in unifying the nation and forging social cohesion,” the Presidency noted.
As the team basks in well-deserved appreciation tomorrow, they stand as a reminder of what can be achieved with the right support.
But, they are also a reminder of the responsibility that should be placed on national bodies to make more of these dreams come true by supporting budding and unique talents, especially as inclusive sport continues to show its positive impact on our country.
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