TeamSA athletes received a proud welcome home at O.R. Thambo International on return from the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Berlin on Tuesday, bringing a staggering total of 49 medals back with them!
After achieving remarkable results at the 2022 Special Olympics South Africa National Summer Games in Limpopo, the team secured their spot in the World Summer Games in Berlin, spanning 3 days of international competition.
The Special Olympics SA national team – consisting of 64 athletes and 21 coaches from various regions across the country – competed in eight different sports including athletics, aquatics, basketball, football, boccie, futsal, netball, table tennis, and ten-pin bowling.
TeamSA did us proud, securing 22 gold medals, 20 silver, and 7 bronze competing against a total of 7000 athletes from 180 countries!
Deputy Minister Mafu Noncedo traveled to Berlin in support of our winning national team at the Special Olympics World Games:
Deputy Minister @MafuNoncedo wrapped up her work trip to the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, Germany. pic.twitter.com/u3EM7Rpl6p
— Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (@SportArtsCultur) June 20, 2023
On arrival back home from their victory, TeamSA were proudly welcomed back by friends, family, fans, and the media following their journey, as well as Deputy Minister Mafu Noncendo, Minister Dlamini Zuma, Bogopane Zulu, and Dr. Phosa.
Deputy Minister @MafuNoncedo welcomed the Special Olympics South Africa team this morning at OR Tambo International Airport
alongside Minister Dlamini Zuma, Bogopane Zulu and Dr. Phosa. pic.twitter.com/SMJXfp04Ec— Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (@SportArtsCultur) June 27, 2023
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.”
Very well done to Team SA for their excellent performance and results!
Written by: Savannah Douglas
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