The South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc) have named a squad of 26 that will represent South Africa at the World Para Athletics Championships in Paris, France taking place from 8 – 17 July 2023.
The team comprises a great blend of experienced athletes who have excelled at various international para events. Among them, Paralympians Ndodomzi Jonathan Ntutu, Zanele Situ, Tyron Pillay, Louzanne Coetzee, Liezel Gouws, Sheryl James, Mpumelelo Mhlongo and Tokyo Paralympics gold medallist in para cycling – Pieter du Preez will stand out as key members.
SASCOC President Barry Hendricks congratulated the team and is confident they can make the country proud in Paris.
“Our team has a proven track record of exceptional performances at national, regional, and international para events. We are confident that the selected team is a strong one that will make us proud at the World Para Athletics Championships,” said Hendricks
“With Paris 2024 Paralympics drawing closer, excitement fills the air, and such events hold significant importance in the sports calendar as they serve as qualifiers for athletes to secure Paralympic slots.”
Sascoc CEO Nozipho Jafta urged the athletes to perform to the best of their ability, as these championships also serve as qualifiers for all track and field events at the Paris 2024 Paralympics.
“The selected team is a strong unit with extensive global experience. Several team members have achieved medals at various competition levels, including the Paralympics,” said Jafta.
South Africa ended the Paralympics with seven medals in total in Tokyo – tied for their worst-ever Paralympic performance since the 1992 Games in Barcelona (seven).
