A South African athlete, Mpumelelo “Mpumi” Mhlongo was the champion of odds as writer Vernon Mchunu put it when he ran third in his Men’s 100m T64 heat at the Tokyo Paralympics on Sunday.
As of today, August 30, Mpumi broke a Paralympic record of 11.03 in the T44 class, coming in 5th place in the final.
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Despite being born with a congenital disorder leaving his right foot “severely deformed” as per his spokesperson, Sue Miles, Mpumi has risen to inspiring heights throughout his life.
The Durban legend has been described not only as a talented al-rounder, but also a leader and academic who matriculated with seven distinctions.
He was the head of his house at Kearsney College, the head of the Kearsney College choir, and a Cum Laude student.
Now, he is a record holder for the Paralympics.
Picture: Roger Sedres
