The South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) has unveiled a formidable team of 15 athletes who will represent Team South Africa at the upcoming Para Athletics World Championships in Kobe, Japan, from May 17th to 25th.
Comprising seasoned athletes with a wealth of experience in global competitions, including the Paralympics, Team SA boasts a roster of exceptional talent.
Additionally, the five-time Paralympian and multi-global sprinting medallist Ndodomzi “Jonathan” Ntutu is also part of the team.
“These events serve as crucial milestones on our journey towards the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, providing invaluable insights into our athletes’ global standing and readiness to compete on the grand stage. Congratulations to every member of the team selected to represent our nation.”
Echoing this sentiment, SASCOC CEO Nozipho Jafta extended her congratulations and emphasised the significance of events leading up to the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
“As we eagerly anticipate the prestigious Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, every competition preceding it holds great importance. The Kobe Para Athletics World Championships coincide with the onset of the 100-day countdown to the Paralympics on 20 May 2024 and serve as a pivotal qualification event for Paris 2024. It is imperative that our athletes give their utmost to secure qualification.”
With a formidable lineup of athletes boasting previous world event experience and medal achievements, SASCOC expresses confidence in the team’s ability to represent the country with distinction.
THE SQUAD
Simone Kruger (Women’s Discus Throw F38)
Sheryl James (Women’s 400 m T37, Women’s 100 m T37, Women’s 200 m T37)
Louzanne Coetzee (Women’s 1500 m T11)
Liezel Gouws (Women’s 400 m T37, Women’s Long Jump T37)
Yane van der Merwe (Women’s Discus Throw F44, Women’s Shot Put F44)
Juane le Roux (Women’s Shot Put F46, Women’s Javelin F46)
Mpumelelo Mhlongo (Men’s 100 m T44, Men’s Long Jump T64)
Kerwin Noemdo (Men’s Shot Put F46)
Puseletso Mabote (Men’s 100 m T63, Men’s Long Jump T63)
Daniel du Plessis (Men’s 400 m T62, Men’s 100 m T64)
Paul Daniels (Men’s 400 m T62, Men’s 100 m T64)
Ndodomzi Ntutu (Men’s 100 m T12)
Khumo Pitso (Men’s High Jump T46)
Sadha Felix (Men’s Long Jump T38)
Collen Mahlalela (Men’s 400 m T47 )
Team management: Lappies Swanepoel, Jason Sewanyana, Daniel Damon and Michael Lourens.