Local skaters make waves at World Games
Team SA's Special Olympics skaters proudly bring home six medals after competing at the World Winter Games.
South Africa’s Special Olympics athletes made history at the 2025 World Winter Games in Turin, Italy, bringing home six medals.
This remarkable achievement marked the first time every athlete representing the country at the Winter World Games earned a medal.
The SA team consist of four figure skaters – Kenneth Mokabo, Naledi Hlalele, Bianca Basson and Tyrell Fykes, and two speed ice skaters, Shirnel Swarts and Shane Bentley. Kenneth, who resides in Logwood Village in Muldersdrift, which supports adults with intellectual disabilities, has proven himself as a force to be reckoned with on the ice.
At just the age of 28, Kenneth is now a Special Olympic Champion and prides himself on his hard work.
I enjoy being on the ice. It’s my favourite thing to do and I can be myself and feel like a superhuman.
“I am so proud of the team, we worked very hard and practiced regularly at the Northgate Ice Rink. This achievement is one of our biggest ones for Special Olympians, and hopefully it can inspire the younger generation with disabilities to strive for their goals,” Kenneth said.
The team’s triumphant return was met with a heartfelt welcome ceremony at OR Tambo International Airport, where Special Olympics South Africa chairperson Mathews Phosa praised the athletes for their incredible achievement.
“We are overwhelmed, we are moved, and we are proud to stand in front of you. You are an incredible team, and with immense pride, we welcome you home,” Mathews proudly said.
