Fewer medals, but a new star born
Wunderkind Ntando Mahlangu takes centre stage after winning the world’s heart with his gutsy performance in the men’s 200m T42 final
SA’s Paralympic heroes returned home from Rio on Tuesday with 17 medals but life for some of the country’s breakthrough stars might never be the same.At the centre of the fanfare was 14-year-old wunderkind Ntando Mahlangu, who stole the world’s hearts by winning silver in the men’s 200m T42 final. The story of how Mahlangu only learnt how to walk on prosthetics four years ago made worldwide news.Mahlangu said on his return the flashing lights had not changed his perspective on life and that he would go back to school and lead his normal life."It was very nice and it was a great feeling to represent my country," he said. "It’s nice to get that kind of support, too, because it shows that all the work I’ve been putting in has been paying off."It does feel a little surreal but I’ve put in hard work to get here."It’s been a great four years up until now, since I started dreaming of being at a Paralympic Games, having watched the London ones."I didn’t think I’d actually be where I am so s...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.