Pretoria - Olympic athlete Mbulaeni Mulaudzi, who passed away on Friday, has been described by President Jacob Zuma as one of South Africa’s most talented athletes.
“The nation has lost a true hero and one of our most disciplined and talented athletes, who flew the South African flag across the sporting globe.
“We wish to convey, on behalf of government and the entire country, our heartfelt condolences to his family, ASA, the South African sports fraternity and the International Olympics Committee. May his soul rest in peace," said President Zuma.
Mulaudzi passed away in a road accident on Friday while he was on his way to an Athletics South Africa (ASA) meeting in Johannesburg.
Gauteng MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture Molebatsi Bopape also conveyed her condolences following the passing of Mulaudzi, who carried the South African flag at the 2004 Athens Olympics, where he went on to win silver in the 800-meter competition.
“This is indeed a tragic loss in the sporting fraternity as the young man showed great potential and always demonstrated commitment and patriotism in his field,” Bopape said on Sunday.
Mulaudzi also won gold in the 2009 World Championships in Berlin.
“On behalf of the Gauteng government, the department sends heartfelt condolences to the family in these trying times of dealing with such a tragedy. This is a loss for South Africa, as we believe Mulaudzi had a lot to still contribute. We should celebrate his life and achievements, even though his passing was sudden,” said Bopape. - SAnews.gov.za
