The Olympic and Paralympic Games remain the pinnacle of World/International Multi-Coded Competitions. It is through these Olympic and Paralympic Games that the nations of the world demonstrate their dominance, power and excellence. The games remain the platform through which 205 countries showcase their best athletes.
Any podium position at the Olympic Games by an athlete is no mean feat considering that more than 11,090 athletes compete to be crowned with a medal out of 339 on offer. It is therefore befitting for the country to recognise and honour outstanding and exceptional performances at both the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Guided by the National Sport and Recreation Plan (NSRP) the Ministry recognises and rewards outstanding performances by athletes on a regular basis. The contribution of coaches who are critical to the success of our athletes is also recognised when their athletes perform exceptionally well, flying the South African flag high on the world stage. In the media briefing #ForTheRecord on 5 August 2021, Minister Mthethwa announced that our medalists from both the Olympic and Paralympic Games would be rewarded. The quantum of the rewards would be in keeping with the well-established norms and standards from the previous Olympic and Paralympic Games.
In addition to the National Lotteries Commission support to Team South Africa, the Department has also provided R7.4m towards team preparations for those teams who ranked top 10 and those athletes with the potential to win medals. Amongst those, was gold medalist, Tatjana Schoemaker.
The Olympic Games may have come to an end but Tokyo 2020 has not ended with the Paralympic Games set to commence on 24 August 2021. The final announcements on the rewards for our medalists for both the Olympic and Paralympic Games would therefore be made after the close of Paralympic Games on 5 September 2021. As for the overall performance of the Olympics team, the Department will have a post-mortem meeting with SASCOC, especially because it is SASCOC’s task to coordinate the team, including the selection process.
Media Enquiries:
Masechaba Khumalo: Spokesperson (Minister)
Phone: 082 858 4415
Email: MasechabaK@dsac.gov.za
