Mpumalanga Paralympian Collen Mahlalela will represent South Africa at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, taking place from July 23 to August 2. The South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee announced the team last week.

ALSO READ: Veteran Mpumalanga runner achieves marathon dream

Mahlalela qualified to compete in the Games last year in India, where he ran the 100 m T47 final in a time of 11.18 seconds. He will represent SA in the 100 m T47 event.

He said he is currently preparing with his trainer, Olympic champion runner Caster Semenya, in Pretoria, and says he feels ready. Mahlalela added that he is currently struggling with an injury, but despite that, he will fight for the podium.

“I am hoping to get position one so that I can change my life. Everything is prepared and I am ready to go represent South Africa,” he said.

ALSO READ: Mpumalanga athlete wins gold medal at Dubai 2026 World Para Athletics Grand Prix

In February last year, the runner from Nkomazi won gold for South Africa in the 400 m T47 and bronze in the 100 m T47 at the Dubai 2026 World Para Athletics Grand Prix.