South African athletes who have qualified to compete at the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo, Japan later this year, say that while the outbreak of COVID-19 has affected their preparations, they are ready to fly the South African flag high.
Some members of the team came together for the announcement that Mr Price Sport is the new kit sponsor for Team SA, a first for a local company.
The outbreak of COVID-19 across the globe led to the cancellation of international events including the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The virus changed the schedule and plans for athletes.
The announcement of the new sponsor of the Olympics is regarded as a psychological boost for South African athletes and its umbrella body Sascoc.
Four-time Olympic swimming medal holder, Chad Le Clos, says he’s ready to compete despite a challenging build-up.
“Yes, it has been difficult, you know. We haven’t had the best training facilities. We have been moving around different venues. I get guys that have been training for several weeks. I am in good shape and I prepare myself the best I could. I am ready for the games. There are no excuses for that and I will (do) what we know.”
Paralympic athlete, Tyron Pillay says the training sessions were affected by the lockdown but they made it work.
“I think COVID-19 affected a lot of things. The readiness of single athletes was affected, not only me. I think what we need to remember is that we were not allowed to get into the gym; we’re not allowed to get into the track to throw and do our different disciplines. Yes, without a doubt, we are behind as far preparations are concerned, but it doesn’t mean we can’t get there, we can’t achieve the results we have set out.”
Mr Price Communications Manager, Matts Warriner says they are happy to be official sponsors of the games as they’re always associated with winners.
“I think for us, the value of the sponsorship is an important thing. The important thing is about the South African athletes being representing the country with pride. They will be wearing our kits in the opening ceremony, on the podium. We want them to be proud of the clothes they will be wearing. That is our value for us and our athletes.”
Sascoc president Barry Hendricks has confirmed that the stability in the Board of Sascoc will produce positive results.
“This body is working as a single unit, a unified entity with the common goal to provide the federations. This sponsorship shows that they believe in us and it working to achieve its goals.”
