South Africa wrapped up the 2024 Paris Games with a total of six medals, spanning both the Olympic and Paralympic events.
The nation proudly placed 44th in the Olympic rankings, bringing home one gold, three silver, and two bronze medals. The Paralympic team also had a strong showing, finishing 43rd, with two gold and four bronze medals added to the tally.
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Olympic success for Team South Africa
South Africa’s Olympic team shone, with Tatjana Smith leading the charge, securing a gold medal in the 100m breaststroke and a silver in the 200m breaststroke. The men’s 4x100m relay team followed with another silver, while Jo-Ane van Dyk brought home silver in the javelin. The Springbok Sevens rugby team and cyclist Alan Hatherly (mountain biking) both earned bronze medals, capping off a solid Olympic performance.
Paralympic victories highlight resilience
In the Paralympics, Mpumelelo Mhlongo took home gold in the 100m T44 and bronze in the 200m T64. Discus thrower Simone Kruger dominated the F38 class, securing her gold medal with a throw of 38.70m. South Africa’s Paralympians also earned four bronze medals across multiple disciplines, including wheelchair tennis and athletics. Louzanne Coetzee claimed bronze in the Women’s 1500m T11, while Pieter du Preez earned his bronze in the H1 individual time trial.
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A moment of transition
The Games weren’t just about medals but also marked significant transitions for several athletes. Some retired, while others, like Alani Ferreira, faced new classifications due to physical changes. Ferreira’s records in the T13 class still stand, though she hopes rising stars like Danika Vyncke will soon surpass them. South Africa’s athletes consistently pushed their limits, breaking personal, national, and African records.
As South Africa celebrates its accomplishments, attention now turns to the 2028 Games in Los Angeles. With promising talent and experienced athletes, the future looks bright for Team SA. Their dedication, combined with continued support from programs like the Bidvest Operation Excellence Programme, ensures that South Africa’s athletes remain on the global stage, ready for even greater success.
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