THE Mother City resounded with applause yesterday as athletes who participated in this year’s Olympics and Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro –including their coaches – embarked on a parade of honour through its streets.
Hundreds of people celebrated their heroes at the Grand Parade and burst into applause as the athletes blew streamers from the party bus into the crowd.
The loudest cheers were reserved for Olympic gold medallists and world 400m record-holder Wayde van Niekerk and Paralympian Hilton Langenhoven, who won silver in the 200m and gold in the long jump.
Activities came to a standstill as the procession moved through the city to Green Point Athletics Stadium.
Mayor Patricia de Lille said at the suggestion of Premier Helen Zille, a process had been set in motion to rename the stadium after Van Niekerk.
Van Niekerk said it was amazing to be honoured in this way.
“This is where I watched my first athletics meet and it’s amazing to have the track named after me. I consider this not just my own legacy, but that of my family and the entire province.”
Though he lives in Bloemfontein now, Van Niekerk said he felt at home in both provinces. The star broke away from all the attention to greet family members from Cape Town before he was whisked away.
Langenhoven said he was proud of winning a medal at each of the Paralympics he participated in.
“My record is there for all to see what a sight-impaired person can achieve through hard work. It is my responsibility, not just for those who are disabled but also for those with Albinism.”
Suzanne Ferreira, who coached six athletes who went to the Paralympics, including Anrune Liebenberg (women’s 400m T47 silver) and Ilse Hayes (100m and 400m T13 silver), said: “Stepping out onto the stage and seeing the hundreds of people was really humbling and amazing.
"We are taking it in our stride and not planning too far ahead right now.”
Van Niekerk’s girlfriend, Chesney Campbell, said they have been busy since the record-breaker’s return from Rio.
“There was event after event with very little rest in between. We have to share him to an extent because of what he means to the country.”
Van Niekerk’s proud mother, Odessa Swarts, said visiting Cape Town has become like a mini-holiday for them.
“Wayde returns to training soon and we have to take advantage of such opportunities. He is a role model to the youth. Having this stadium named after him will be a motivation for them as much as it is an honour for us.”