Determined Gwala continues to inspire
TRIATHLETE Mhlengi “Slyza” Gwala from Durban, who was ambushed in a horrific handsaw attack in 2018, continues to inspire, and his recent win at the African Championships held in Egypt last month has ignited an ambition to compete at the Paralympics in Paris 2024.
The 30-year-old had to have his leg amputated in August last year, throwing him off the competition track for months, which meant he could not gain enough points to qualify for the Paralympics in Tokyo this year.
“I just did not have enough time because my leg was amputated in August after I got an infection that left me in and out of hospital.
“I was in so much pain that in August the doctor decided to amputate. However, once I recovered I was back to training and as soon as I could compete I was there. I will never give up,” the father of two girls said.
It was this determination that in March this year saw Gwala win his category in his first competition at the SA Para-Triathlon Championships in Bloemfontein, where he also finished second overall. This was followed by the African Championships, where he took home gold.
Gwala, who grew up in the rural area of Emaphephetheni, has also become a sponsored athlete backed by triathlon company Orca South Africa.
After he finished school he had good intentions of studying, but a life of partying with drugs and alcohol got the better of him and he landed up in hospital with liver failure in 2009 and didn’t complete his studies.
This was the turning point in his life. “I had a passion to be a lifeguard and joined the Marine Surf Lifesaving Club in Durban and started swimming. This was where my love for swimming began and it was a natural progression to triathlon.
“Triathlon saved my life in many ways. I ditched the party life and followed a healthier lifestyle with a more positive outlook,” he said.
Three years ago, Gwala was viciously attacked with a handsaw while out on a training ride, and the attackers got 80% through his right leg between the ankle and knee. However, this did not dampen the athlete’s spirits, only making him stronger and more determined to live out his dreams.
He trains for about four hours a day, split between sessions of running, cycling and swimming.
“I want to encourage everyone with a dream to just keep pushing. I have been through so much and look at what I have achieved. Never stop doing what you love, even if you are down; it will last for a few days then you will be fine, everything becomes better.”
He said the support from his family, sponsor and all those who believe in him is what keeps him motivated.