Rising stars and veteran champs: Team SA’S Paralympics journey begins

IFP spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa.
Tshwane mayor Cilliers Brink.
Avbob Investment Plan
As the world turns its gaze to Paris for the 2024 Paralympic Games, Team South Africa is ready to showcase talent across nine different sporting codes. Comprising 26 athletes, the squad features both seasoned competitors and fresh faces eager to make their mark on the grand stage for the first time. 
 
ARCHERY 
Kicking off the competition is Shaun Anderson, who will represent Team SA in the W10 classification for archery. These archers shoot from a seated position, making every arrow an artistry of focus and determination. 
 
ATHLETICS 
The athletics team boasts a formidable line-up, including Louzanne Coetzee, who will tackle the 1500m and the marathon in the T11 category, alongside her sighted guide. Jaco Smit, competing in the T12 100m sprint, aims to make every second count as he races against time. Sheryl James, Liezel Gouws and Mpumelelo Mhlongo will bring their competitive spirit and hard-earned skills as they sprint, jump, and throw their way to victory. 
 
BOCCIA 
In the game of Boccia, Karabo Cassius Morapedi and Elanza Jordaan will test their skills.  
CYCLING: 
Pieter du Preez will represent Team SA in the hand cycling H1 category, where he’ll unleash the power of his upper body. Expect some high-speed thrills as he races against tough international competition. 
EQUESTRIAN: Grace in Motion 
Philippa Johnson-Dwyer embodies the spirit of the equestrian G4 category. With her horse, she’ll display the elegance and coordination required to navigate courses that leave audiences in awe. 
 
JUDO 
In a test of skill and strategy, Ndyebo Lamani will fight in the under 73kg J1 judo category.  
 
PARA-TRIATHLON 
Kirsty Weir will tackle the triathlon in the PTS4 category, where navigating swimming, cycling and running will demonstrate sheer grit and resilience.  
 
SWIMMING 
Team SA makes waves with a star-studded swimming team led by the versatile Kat Swanepoel and the determined duo Nathan Hendricks and Alani Ferreira. They will be competing across multiple styles and distances. 
 
WHEELCHAIR TENNIS 
On the tennis courts, Team SA will feature in both the singles and doubles competitions. Donald Ramphadi, Lucas Sithole, Alwande Sikhosana, Kgothatso Montjane and Mariska Venter are set to dazzle spectators as they chase the net and score aces. 
 
With a blend of experience and exhilarating potential, Team South Africa brings a spirit of unity and competition that promises to light up the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. Get ready for an inspiring showcase of skill, resilience and passion. Let the Games begin! 
 
By Tshenolo Khaile