SA Secures Six Medals at 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games

South Africa’s athletes returned triumphantly from the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy, securing an impressive six medals. The games, which featured over 1,500 athletes from 100 delegations competing in eight sports, were a proud moment for the nation.

At a heartfelt ceremony at OR Tambo International Airport, Mathews Phosa welcomed the team home, expressing immense pride: “We are overwhelmed, we are moved, and we are proud to stand in front of you. You are an incredible team and with immense pride, we welcome you home.”

Each of the six South African athletes who competed in the games brought home a medal—one gold, three silver, and two bronze. This remarkable achievement marked the first time every athlete representing the country at the Winter World Games earned a medal.

Phosa added, “For the first time ever, every single athlete who represented our nation at the Winter World Games has brought home a medal. This has never happened at any sporting festival, never.”

The SOSA 2025 National Team’s success was supported by several sponsors, including the National Lotteries Commission, Nike South Africa, Converse South Africa, Lahers Silkscreen, Tutone Communications, African Bank, and Gift of the Givers.

Gold medallist Naledi Hlalele, a figure skater, shared her joy: “It’s a big achievement to be acknowledged. I tried to not put pressure on myself, I had to stay calm. Having my team cheer for me helped.” Despite tough competition, Hlalele remained calm and persevered, earning a gold medal. “I wasn’t expecting a gold medal, but all the hard work paid off,” she said.

The Special Olympics is a global movement for athletes with intellectual disabilities, relying on the dedication of volunteers and coaches. Coach Glenda Slabbert expressed her pride in the team, saying, “It’s a great achievement for them. I’m just the coach, they are the ones who had to hold it together.”

The North West Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture, along with the Education department, also showed support, as the province will host the 2026 Special Olympics South Africa National Games.

Team SA’s Medallists:

• Gold: Naledi Hlalele (Figure Skating)
• Silver: Bianca Basson (Figure Skating), Kenneth Mokabo (Figure Skating), Shane Bentley (Short Track Speed Skating)
• Bronze: Tyrell Sykes (Figure Skating), Shirnel Swarts (Short Track Speed Skating)

This achievement highlights the incredible dedication and talent of South Africa’s Special Olympics athletes.

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Sourced:EWN