SASCOC announces big incentives for Team South Africa Paralympic squad

By Charles Baloyi
9th July 2024

The South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) have announced a team of 26 athletes from seven sporting codes who will represent Team SA at the Paralympic Games in Paris from 28 August to 8 September.

The team includes a mix of young and experienced athletes. SASCOC president Barry Hendricks told SABC Sport that the team is expected to increase as the qualification process concludes at the end of July.

For the first time in Olympic history, big incentives have been introduced for medalists and their guides, recognizing the crucial role of guides in assisting athletes.

"Well, the incentives are the same with the Olympians, so we have shown equality across the spectrum where we are going to recognise the athletes as well as the coaches but in the case of the para-athletes even their guides, will also be incentivized," Hendricks said.

"For gold, R400 000 for the athletes, R100 000 for the coach. Silver, R200 000 for the athletes, R50 000 for the coach and bronze, R75 000 for the athlete and R25 00 for the coach. We also have provided incentives for Bocce, as well as for the guides for the three tiers."

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Hendricks told the national broadcaster that they do not plan to take a big team to Paris, announcing 26 athletes with a few names to be added next month.

Pieter du Preez (cycling), Louzanne Coetzee (athletics), and Sheyrl James (athletics) won gold, silver, and bronze medals at the previous Paralympics, where Team SA secured seven medals three years ago.

"Around 26 team (athletes) but there are still some that can qualify for slots in the Paralympics as well. So, we are still waiting for that to be completed. Remember Pieter won his race. We now have Simone a World Champion with a world record under her belt,” he added.

“We know that in the track and field, in the swimming we stand very good chances as well. So, again we've put together an experienced but also a young team and again our focus is not only for Paris but LA 2028.

“So, through the incentives programme, Bidvest Operation Excellence [OPEX] will be supporting these athletes as well. 21 of those athletes are already on Operation Bidvest."