Get to know Mpumalanga Paralympian Collen Mahlalela | Mpumalanga News

After winning the 2026 Sportsman of the Year with a Disability award, Mpumalanga Paralympian Collen Mahlalela shared eight things to know about him.

He received the award during the Seventh Annual Mpumalanga Sports Awards held at The Ridge in Emalahleni on March 21.

The gold medalist expressed his appreciation for the support he receives from the people of Mpumalanga.

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1. When did you receive your first gold medal on an international stage?
   I won my first gold medal in an international competition this year – the 400m T47 race at the 2026 Dubai World Para Athletics Grand Prix.
2. What can you call your greatest achievement?
   Winning the gold medal for South Africa in the 400m T47 race at the Dubai 2026 World Para Athletics Grand Prix in February.
3. What was your first international race?
   Dubai 2024 was my first international race.
4. How many gold medals do you have?
   I have one international gold medal. But for competitions in SA, I can’t even calculate the number. There are a lot.
5. How many times in a week do you train?
   Seven days a week.
6. Who is your role model?
   Wayde van Niekerk.
7. What big competition/race will you compete in this year?
   The 2026 Commonwealth Games.
8. What are your plans after retirement?
   I plan to get involved in coaching and management.