Team SA gets hero’s welcome after winning 49 medals at Special Olympics
Team SA athletes were welcomed back to OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg, after hauling in an incredible 49 medals at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Berlin, Germany. The Special Olympics athletes triumphed across a range of sporting codes that saw them secure a medal haul of 22 gold, 20 silver, and 7 bronze. […]
Team SA athletes were welcomed back to OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg, after hauling in an incredible 49 medals at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Berlin, Germany.
The Special Olympics athletes triumphed across a range of sporting codes that saw them secure a medal haul of 22 gold, 20 silver, and 7 bronze.
This year, South Africa competed against a massive contingent of 7,000 athletes hailing from 180 countries, highlighting the impressive nature of their performances given the vast number of challengers.
As a result of their outstanding performance at the 2022 Special Olympics South Africa National Summer Games held in Limpopo, Team SA earned their spot in this year’s competition. Over the course of three days, Special Olympics athletes showcased their talents in eight different sports, namely athletics, aquatics, basketball, boccie, football, futsal, netball, table tennis, and ten-pin bowling.
The Special Olympics South African national team comprises 64 athletes and 21 coaches, representing various regions across the country.
They come together with around 3,000 coaches and 20,000 volunteers from 190 countries, forming a united front in the global Special Olympics community.
Tsepo Mhlongo, DA Shadow Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, said: “Their dedication, skill, and unwavering spirit have brought immense pride and joy to our country.”
The DA is calling upon the Department of Sports, Art and Culture to prioritise the growth and advancement of SA’s sportsmen and women.
“By investing in the growth and advancement of our sportsmen and women, we not only contribute to their individual success but also foster a culture of wellness, competition, and national pride. Supporting our athletes not only promotes physical health but also encourages unity, national cohesion, and social development,” said Mhlongo.
Deputy Minister Mafu welcoming the Special Olympics South Africa team this morning at OR Tambo International Airport
alongside Minister Dlamini Zuma, Bogopane Zulu and Dr. Phosa.#Berlin2023 #UnbeatableTogether #ChooseToInclude pic.twitter.com/YCLtA82BHe— Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (@SportArtsCultur) June 27, 2023