The Special Olympics South Africa 2023 National Team received a special send-off to Berlin. The send-off took place on June 11, at the Deutsche Internationale Schule Johannesburg (DSJ) in Parktown. The team will be participating in the Special Olympics World Games in Germany from June 17 to 25. There they will be competing against 7 000 athletes from across 180 countries.
Principal of DSJ Thomas Bachmeier provided the welcoming remarks, emphasising the importance of this milestone event. A series of heartfelt messages were presented by esteemed individuals, further amplifying the support for our special athletes. Notably, a message of encouragement was conveyed by Jodi Scholtz, the Commissioner of the National Lotteries.
This was followed by a touching endorsement from Imtiaz Sooliman, Founder of Gift of the Givers, whose philanthropic work is revered globally. His Excellency, the German Ambassador Andreas Peschke, showed solidarity with a supportive message for the team, highlighting the transnational importance of the Special Olympics.
Mathume Joseph Phaahla, Minister of Health; Nkosazana Dlamini- Zuma, Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities; Lindiwe Zulu, Minister of Social Development, and Ncediso Goodenough Kodwa, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, took turns addressing the athletes, echoing sentiments of praise for their determination and resilience. Kodwa also gave the keynote address, highlighting the power of sports in bridging divides and promoting unity.
Dr Mathews Phosa, the chairperson of Special Olympics South Africa, concluded the event with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all stakeholders involved in making the event a success.
In an extension, a symbolic gathering took place at OR Tambo International Airport. Here, the ministers, along with the chairperson and the CEO of Special Olympics South Africa, performed a ceremonial handover of the SA Flag to Team SA, demonstrating the nation’s trust and support in their athletes as they prepare to conquer the international stage.
The 2023 Special Olympics National Team hopes to replicate their success at the 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games in the United Arab Emirates where they returned triumphant with 35 gold, 15 silver and 12 bronze medals.
As the 2023 national team embarks on their journey to Germany, they bear the hopes and dreams of South Africa on their shoulders. The unyielding support and encouraging messages from key national leaders reflect the country’s collective anticipation and belief in their potential for success.
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