He was speaking at the OR Tambo Airport before they jetted off to London Paralypics 2012 which races-off next Wednesday until September 9.
The 100 and 200 relay champion says it would be unbearable and unforgiving to compare what the Olympian team did at the recent games to what they’ve set their target for.
“Although, it would be very important not to compare numbers and medals achieved by them, we will use that as a motivator and if possible, beat the Beijing record fro 30 to more, “says the confident Radebe better known to his peers as “Samke”.
The fourth year law student at UJ, who was concerned juggling between studies and training, has heaped praise on his family and teammates for playing a crucial role in making sure he completes his test before jetting to the Paralympics.
“Focus, determination and the drive to achieve my dreams should be attributed to all who have made my life a bit manageable considering studying and training I had to go through. It was tough and taxing but at the end of the day it’s upon an individual on what you want out of all that.”
Posed to him what would be his dream since being the first time participant, he minced no words by saying Gold, accompanied by huge smile.
“That’s my ultimate dream to win Gold and I’m going to achieve that”, he promised the South Africans.
Albeit, the Paralympians Team SA prizes are not as much as the one given to Olympians, for Gold they pocket R100,000, Silver R80,000 and Bronze R50,000, respectively.
However, “Samke” isn’t concerned about the money but to participate and not be pointed out as one of ‘adding numbers’.
His compatriot from Free State, Teboho Mokgaladi is also singing from the same page having said he wants Gold either by hook or crook.
“Mine is to show to the world and to my fellow countrymen that, despite our physical challenges, we shall triumph. And that’s what we’re going to do in London.
The fortunate Teboho, has been supported by the Free State department of Sport whose MEC Dan Khothule said, they’ve invested all their resources to help him achieve his dream and place the province on the international sport map.
Speaking to various sporting figures including Andy Scott from Sasol, they all agreed that Paralympians should come home with at least 35 medals to beat the Beijing Olympics record which they managed only 30.
