Mpumelelo Mhlongo focusing on mental health ahead of Paralympics

The Games will take place in Paris from 28 August to 08 September. Speaking to SABC Sport Mhlongo says being strong mentally makes an athlete stand out against the best in the world.

READ: Rassie braces for 'another step up' as Boks zero in on All Blacks showdown

 ''You know, a long time ago when I was much younger, I was always told that what separates the good from the great - when it comes to those who are remembered as being the greatest of all times in whatever sporting code they endeavor - is their mental fortitude, because you are standing up against the world's most talented and most dedicated athlete. That is why you must have mental stability to go against the world's best,'' said Mhlongo.

Mhlongo is South Africa’s flag bearer in the Games, alongside swimmer and double world champion Kat Swanepoel. He says he’s grateful for this opportunity, especially alongside a brilliant athlete like Swanepoel.

''It is an incredible honour to be selected as one of the flag bearers, alongside the amazing Kat Swanepoe who has great things for this country, in both swimming and wheelchair basketball. It is a privilege and we don't take it likely at all,'' added Mhlongo.

The Durban-born athlete has been in France, Montpelier for two months to prepare for the Games and climatise, he adds that training in an area that is almost like his hometown with a beach bought some much-needed mental clarity ahead of the Games.

 Mhlongo, a Mechanical Engineering PhD candidate at the University of Cape Town, has thanked South Africans for the continued support that they show to their para-athletes, adding that they will do great at the Games.