Tshedza Rathumbu is off to the Special Olympics
Vhembe director for sport Thovhakale says sport is an equaliser in that a player from rural Limpopo can still beat a player in Berlin a world-class city with all the amenities.
LIMPOPO- TSHED Rathumbu(21) a learner at Tshilwavhusiku Razwimisani Special School, will represent South Africa in table tennis at the Special Olympics World Summer Games, also referred to as the Special Olympics World Games, in Berlin, Germany this year.
He was elated during his send-off event on May 17, which was held at the school in Ravele, with various stakeholders in attendance including Vhembe director for sport, Collins Thovhakale, Makhado councillor Rachel Gabara and a representative of Special Olympics South Africa.
The Special Olympics World Games are the world’s largest inclusive sports event. Thousands of athletes with intellectual disabilities compete in 26 sporting disciplines. The nine days of exciting sportsmanship is this year hosted from June 17-25.
Thovhakale said the department would make sure that Rathumbu and other players selected from the province, receive the assistance necessary to ensure their stay in Berlin is enjoyable.
“We are very proud of him. Sport is an equaliser in that a player from rural Limpopo can still beat a player in Berlin, a world-class city with all the amenities.”
His coach, Winny Petlo described Rathumbu as a dedicated learner who would no doubt fly the country’s flag high overseas.
“We are confident that he will bring back a wealth of knowledge to share with us.”
She said parents should not hide their children who have disabilities. “Gone are those days when people used to keep their children at home because they have disabilities. Let them come and learn with others. They have potential just like all other children.”
Rathumbu urged other learners not to take competitions for granted, saying these are platforms that could open up opportunities for them. “This is the best thing to have happened in my life, and I will make use of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I will come back and share what I learn there with those in my country. I am fortunate as a young rural boy to have been chosen to represent the country. I am so excited,” he said.
