On Saturday, 19 March 2022, the 6oth instalment of the SASAPD National Championships kicked off. The four-day even was hosted by the Gauteng province with sporting codes competing at several locations including the Germiston stadium, Germiston Recreational Hall, Kaizen Judo Club and Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg. It included Para Athletics, Para Powerlifting, Boccia, Para Cycling, Goalball, CP Football and Judo for the blind. The event was once again sponsored by Toyota South Africa.
The Championships aims to provide para athletes from across the country the opportunity to compete against their peers, improve their personal best and break national and international records. Amongst the participants were several Paralympians. Mpumelelo Mhlongo won the 100 m dash while the young Puseletso Mabote nabbed first in the 200 m. All the result of the event can be viewed here.
While the athletes compete at an individual level, their performance also contributes to the ranking of the provincial team. This year, the host province, Gauteng, was awarded the best performing province with the Free State and Eastern Cape in second and third respectively. North West was awarded the best team spirit for the event.
The SASAPD also took this opportunity to announce the Western Cape as the host province for the 2023 National Championship. In addition to sponsoring the event, Toyota South Africa also awarded a vehicle to the Muriel Brand School – a school for children with disabilities in Brakpan.
Well done to all the athletes!
