Okuhle swimming his way to the top

Okuhle Mke (18) has shown the world that it can be done when he swim during the Special Olympics to receive three medals.

The Thanduxolo Special School learner attended the Special Olympics World Games held at Abu Dhabi.

Before attending the games Okuhle attended a camp at Johannesburg Boys Park Town High School.

The team to compete flew to Abu Dhabi on March 7 and competed from March 15 until March 22.

Okuhle competed in the swimming free style 25m and back stroke 25m.

He was awarded a gold medal in free style, a silver medal in free style and a bronze medal in backstroke.

He started swimming in 2014 at the Killer Whales Swimming Club under the leadership of Deon Du Plessis.

He is from a family of five and he is the first born in the family. Presently staying with his grandmother and aunt.

His teacher, Ms Thandi Matsimela said the school was very proud of his achievements and will make other students from the school to see that it can be done at international level.

School head coach Mr Bongane Shabalala shared the same sentiments.

Captain Nomsa Mtsweni, the school adopt a cop officer said they were happy to see Okuhle achieving such great achievements will motivate other learners to always aim high irrespective of family background or school.

“This will motivate other learners to concentrate on sports and away from the negative things like drugs and alcohol. They can build their future in sports if they put in hard word and stay focussed on sports and education,” added Captain Mtsweni.

Sergeant David Ratau also praised Okuhle for his achievements.

There were more than 7 000 athletes at this year’s World Games competing in different sports.