The excitement builds as South Africa unveils its first cohort of 26 exceptional athletes, officially qualifying for the Paris Paralympics this August, ready to compete on the world stage in the ultimate celebration of sportsmanship and resilience.
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In a similar spirit to the Olympic squads, the announcement of South Africa’s Paralympic athletes will unfold in the coming months, building anticipation as we countdown to the Games, just 50 days away from the thrilling opening on August 28.
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Earlier this week, the South African Sports Confederation, Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SASCOC) thrilled the nation by announcing a dynamic Paralympic team, igniting excitement across the country.
With a roster featuring many acclaimed para-athletes, anticipation builds for a wealth of proud moments as these athletes showcase extraordinary talents on the grand stage in Paris.
‘Team South Africa has always competed with pride and excellence at the Paralympics. This edition we expect similar. The initial squad represents the best of the best and we are hopeful that our athletes will continue to add to the country’s reputation at the Paralympics. We wish them every success and assure them that they have the support of the entire nation behind them,’ beamed SASCOC CEO Nozipho Jafta.
Meet the First of South Africa’s Paris Paralympic Squad
Archery Paralympians:
- Shaun Anderson (W1)
Athletics Paralympians:
- Erasmus Badenhorst (guide, 1500m)
- Hermanus Blom (F12 shot put)
- Louzanne Coetzee (T11 1500m and marathon)
- Daniel du Plessis (T62 400m)
- Liezel Gouws (T37 200m and long jump)
- Sheryl James (T37 100m, 200m, 400m)
- Claus Kempen (guide, marathon)
- Simone Kruger (T38 discus)
- Puseletso Mabote (T63 100m and long jump)
- Collen Mahlalela (T47 400m)
- Mpumelelo Mhlongo (T44 100m and long jump)
- Kerwin Noemdo (F46 shot put)
- Khumo Pitso (T46 high jump)
- Jaco Smith (T12 100m)
- Yane van der Merwe (F44 discus)
Boccia Paralympians:
- Elanza Jordaan (BC3)
- Sandre Jordaan (BC3 ramp operator)
- Karabo Cassius Morapedi (BC3)
- Matobako Vincent Ramochela (BC3 ramp operator)
Cycling Paralympians:
- Pieter du Preez
Equestrian Paralympians:
- Christiaan Haazen (groom)
- Philippa Johnson-Dwyer
Swimming Paralympians:
- Alani Ferreira (S12 400m freestyle, SB12 100m breaststroke, SM12 200m Individual Medley, S12-S13 100m butterfly)
- Nathan Hendricks (S13 200m individual medley, 100m backstroke, SB13 100m breaststroke)
- Christian Sadie (S7 50m butterfly, 100m backstroke,50m freestyle, SM7 200m individual medley)
- Kat Swanepoel (SM5 200m Individual Medley, S5 50m backstroke, 100m freestyle, 200m freestyle, SB4 100m breaststroke, S14 400m freestyle)
- Danika Vyncke (SB13 100m breaststroke)
Wheelchair Tennis Paralympians:
- Alwande Sikhosana
Exciting opportunities await as more qualification spots open up in disciplines like Para Judo, Wheelchair Tennis, and Para Triathlon. Stay tuned for thrilling updates and new additions to South Africa’s Paris Paralympic Squad.
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Also read:
Team SA returns from the Special Olympics World Games with 49 medals
Picture:SASAPD (South African Sports Association for Physically Disabled) / Facebook