President Jacob Zuma today congratulated the South African team at the Commonwealth Games, following a sterling performance.
At the conclusion of the games today, team South Africa finished fifth on the medals table with a total of 33 medals – which included 12 gold medals, 11 silver and 10 bronze. Gold medals from Sunette Viljoen in the women's javelin event and Chris Harmse in the men's hammer throw, helped South Africa seal its place as a winning nation. Natalie du Toit confirmed her status as one of the world’s greatest by swimming away with three gold medals.
A number of young athletes have also shown promise. Twenty two year old swimming sensation Cameron van den Burgh was rewarded with two gold medals. Eighteen year old, Chad le Clos, who also took two swimming gold medals and Jennifer Khwela, silver medallist in the Vault have also done the country proud.
We look forward to more medal-winning performance at the London 2012 Olympics.
"Let me take this opportunity to congratulate India on hosting a successful Commonwealth Games. They have certainly proved their detractors wrong, both on and off the field. Together with South Africa they have proved that developing nations are capable of hosting successful global sporting events.
"Team South Africa’s performance has inspired millions of our citizens, most especially our youth to endeavour to become champions. We call upon all South Africans to give our team a rousing welcome on their return. Well done, Halala," President Zuma said.
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Source: The Presidency
