Team SA athletes received a hero’s welcome upon their return after an exceptional performance at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Berlin, Germany. The athletes secured a total of 49 medals, including 22 gold, 20 silver and seven bronze, across a wide range of sporting codes.
Their success is even more impressive considering the stiff competition they faced, with 7 000 athletes from 180 countries participating in this year’s event.
Also read: Special Olympics South Africa National Team launches its ‘Road to Berlin’
Team South Africa earned their place in the Special Olympics World Summer Games following their outstanding performance at the 2022 Special Olympics South Africa National Summer Games in Limpopo.
Over the course of three days, these Special Olympics athletes showcased their exceptional talents in eight different sports, namely athletics, aquatics, basketball, boccie, football, futsal, netball, table tennis and ten-pin bowling. The national team consisted of 64 athletes and 21 coaches, representing various regions across the country.
With approximately 3 000 coaches and 20 000 volunteers from 190 countries, Team South Africa formed a strong bond within the global Special Olympics community.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) released a statement congratulating the team and recognising their dedication, skill and unwavering spirit, which have brought immense pride and joy to the nation. The DA acknowledged that the athletes’ medals are a testament to their hard work, determination and perseverance, showcasing not only their individual talent but also the great potential of the country in the field of sports.
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The DA emphasised in the statement the importance of prioritising the growth and advancement of South African sportsmen and women, calling upon the Department of Sports, Art and Culture to take action. It was noted that the success of Team South Africa on the international stage serves as proof of the immense talent present in various sporting disciplines within the nation.
‘It is crucial that we continue to invest in the development of our athletes, providing them with the necessary resources, training facilities and support systems to further excel on the global stage. 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.
The DA concluded the statement by saying that supporting our athletes promotes not only physical health but also unity, national cohesion and social development.
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
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Picture: @SportArtsCultur / Twitter