Durban triathlete hospitalised following chainsaw attack
A Durban triathlete is receiving treatment in hospital after being attacked by chainsaw-wielding assailants while on a training ride.
Mhlengi Gwala was attacked in Umbilo early yesterday morning.
Gwala's manager and director of the Elite Athlete Development Programme, Dennis Jackson says it is believed the attackers were after the 26-year-old's bicycle.
"They took him out and took him into a bush. They did take a chainsaw to his legs," he said.
Jackson says the extent of Gwala's injuries is not yet known.
"We all just praying that it goes really well and that he is going to be okay. From the sounds of things, he has gotten out of it as best he can. He's a positive guy and an amazing athlete. We all just hoping he pulls through. It truly is a devastating occurrence.
Gwala has previously spoken about how he used sport to overcome his struggles with drugs and alcohol.
Gwala's manager and director of the Elite Athlete Development Programme, Dennis Jackson says it is believed the attackers were after the 26-year-old's bicycle.
"They took him out and took him into a bush. They did take a chainsaw to his legs," he said.
Jackson says the extent of Gwala's injuries is not yet known.
"We all just praying that it goes really well and that he is going to be okay. From the sounds of things, he has gotten out of it as best he can. He's a positive guy and an amazing athlete. We all just hoping he pulls through. It truly is a devastating occurrence.
Gwala has previously spoken about how he used sport to overcome his struggles with drugs and alcohol.