Kearsney old boy chasing Rio glory
Despite the fact he was born with a handicap which affects the function of one of his legs, local star Mpumelelo Mhlongo will be looking to bring home gold from the Rio Paralympics when he competes tonight (Thursday).
Mpume was born with a congenital disorder which left his right foot severely deformed and the chance of amputation strong, and the development of his fingers was also affected. But his dedication and determination has ensured his place in the South African team for two events - the 100m sprint and long jump.
Last week, before he jetted off to Brazil, he gave an inspiring and entertaining speech to the boys and staff of his old school, Kearsney College.
An exceptionally talented all-rounder and leader, Mpume matriculated from Kearsney four years ago with seven distinctions. He was head of house, head of the acclaimed Kearsney College choir which won gold at the World Choir Games, captain of the school’s 2nd soccer team and a top academic, achieving Academic Honours Cum Laude.
He was popular with his peers and at his final speech day, he was awarded the Edwin Henwood Trophy for “perseverance, setting an example to his peers, displaying courage in overcoming difficulties, scholastic achievement, success in sport and leadership”.
After Kearsney, Mpume went to UCT to study Chemical Engineering where he’s earned a coveted place on the Dean’s List for academic excellence in his first three years. Last year he was named UCT’s Sportsman of the Year.
At the 2015 National Championships for the Physically Disabled, he became the South African T44 champion in the 100m, 200m, long jump and high jump categories - breaking the All African records for the latter two. This qualified him for the IPC World Championships in all four events.
Last week, before he jetted off to Brazil, he gave an inspiring and entertaining speech to the boys and staff of his old school, Kearsney College.
An exceptionally talented all-rounder and leader, Mpume matriculated from Kearsney four years ago with seven distinctions. He was head of house, head of the acclaimed Kearsney College choir which won gold at the World Choir Games, captain of the school’s 2nd soccer team and a top academic, achieving Academic Honours Cum Laude.
He was popular with his peers and at his final speech day, he was awarded the Edwin Henwood Trophy for “perseverance, setting an example to his peers, displaying courage in overcoming difficulties, scholastic achievement, success in sport and leadership”.
After Kearsney, Mpume went to UCT to study Chemical Engineering where he’s earned a coveted place on the Dean’s List for academic excellence in his first three years. Last year he was named UCT’s Sportsman of the Year.
At the 2015 National Championships for the Physically Disabled, he became the South African T44 champion in the 100m, 200m, long jump and high jump categories - breaking the All African records for the latter two. This qualified him for the IPC World Championships in all four events.
(Photo Supplied)
Twitter - @SportswaveAndre