Tsakani golfers bag gold medals in Europe world games
Their medals add to the 22 gold medals won by team South Africa.
Tsakani – Matshediso Special Needs School golfers Banele Makhubo and Nhlanhla Mkabane were counted among the top performers at the Special Olympics World Games, which were held in Berlin, Germany from June 17 to 25.
The pair won gold medals while their schoolmate, Thatohatso Mokgotla, received a ribbon for finishing in fourth place in the individual competition.
Their medals add to the 22 gold medals won by Team South Africa during the competition. The teams also collected 20 silver and seven bronze medals.
Makhubo (17), Mkabane (18), and Mokgotla (19) were three of seven golfers who represented the country in the sport.
School principal Thapelo Tshetlo said he is proud of the team for representing the school and country exceptionally in the world tournament.
“Their success shows that the team worked hard in preparation for the tournament, and the long hours of practice paid off,” he said.
Tshetlho added that he didn’t anticipate that the team would walk away as champions, but asked that they have fun and learn from their competitors.
“This milestone has set a precedent that our learners are champions and can achieve anything they set their minds to.
“It should also erase the mentality from the community that they are mentally ill. They are not, they just live with special needs,” he added.
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Tshetlho is encouraging parents with children with special needs to come forward and have them enrolled in special schools.
“These children deserve a fair chance at learning. They have skills that can contribute to the economy of this country, sports, and other facets. The days of locking them behind closed doors are over. They too have a position and opportunities to excel in anything,” he said.
Makhubo said during the competition he decided to focus on the skills the coaches shared with the team during practice.
“I focused on my goal of winning a gold medal and I am proud that I conquered that milestone,” he said.
