Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Speedy Delft teen wins gold and silver at Special Olympics
THEODORE Barnes proved that with hard work and determination, you can be a champion.
The Delft boy brought home a gold and silver from the Special Olympics held in Limpopo this month.
The Special Olympics said in a statement that the national team will be participating against more than 7 000 athletes from 180 countries in Berlin and will be hoping to beat the medal count from the previous Special Olympics Summer Games in the United Arab Emirates, where the team returned with 35 gold, 15 silver and 12 bronze medals.
Special Olympics South Africa serves more than 57 000 athletes across all 9 provinces.
Barnes was one of four learners from Bet-EL School in Kuils River in the Western Cape, who were selected.
Barnes is an avid runner, swimmer, soccer and rugby player.
He achieved first place for the 100 metres and was given a gold medal athletics.
For the 200 metres, Barnes achieved second place scooping a silver medal.
He was given a hero's welcome by family and friends this week and his relatives also took to social media to inform the community of his winnings.
Barnes is in his final year, Level at the school and is ending the academic year off with a bash by participating in the Special Olympics for athletics.
Barnes, who is ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) said he had worked hard and was proud of his achievement.
“It was a good learning experience for me and I also made new friends,” said Barnes.
“I was nervous at first but when I reached the finals, I became more relaxed.
“I knew I was going to make it and I won the finals in the 100 metres and in the finals for the 200 metres, I came second.”
Barnes said he was keen to be part of the event again.
“Although I did not make it to the Germany extension of the competition, it was the experience for me,” he added.
“I learnt a lot and I wish those representing the Western Cape all the best as they compete. It felt so unreal but I made it.”
His sister, Zudith Parish said Barnes set an example for those who thought they could not achieve anything due to a disability and other obstacles.
“We as the family are very happy as he is an inspiration to us and others.
“He never gave up and that is what he learnt – even though you have a disability or if you have struggles, you fight it through and you will achieve it.
He has been named the star in our family,” she added.