Mpumalanga Paralympian Collen Mahlalela won a gold medal for South Africa in the 400m T47 race at the Dubai 2026 World Para Athletics Grand Prix on Thursday, February 12.

Mahlalela also claimed a bronze medal in the 100m T47 event on Friday, February 13.

Hailing from eMasibekela in Nkomazi, he has once again made his mark in international competition. He qualified for this Grand Prix last year at the World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi, India.

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Before travelling to Dubai, Mahlalela told Mpumalanga News that he was planning to bring home a gold medal – and he achieved this goal.

According to Mahlalela, he has mixed feelings about his performance.

“I am happy, but also not happy. I didn’t beat my personal best in this race, and I had hoped to do so. I completed it in 50.37 seconds. While running, I got injured, which also affected my 100m race on Friday. In that event, I finished in 11.35 seconds, though I had hoped to win gold.”

After completing his first competition of the season, Mahlalela said he has three more events before the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

He will be preparing with his personal trainer, Olympic champion Caster Semenya.

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“In March, I will participate in the University of Johannesburg Championships, the Winelands International Para Athletics Competition, and the 2026 Toyota SASAPD (South African Sports Association for the Physically Disabled) National Championships.”

Mahlalela expressed his gratitude for the support he receives, particularly from Inkosi Mlambo II and the Bambanani Mlambo Trust, who have consistently supported his journey.