By Kevin Rademeyer.
South African Olympians have received long-overdue recognition for their achievements, as 30 athletes were officially honoured at the inaugural OLY Award Ceremony on Friday, 14 March 2025.
Hosted by the South African Olympians Association (SAOA) in partnership with the South African Sports Confederation, Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SASCOC), the event celebrated past and present Olympians with the prestigious OLY pin and certificate. This global honour, introduced by the World Olympians Association (WOA) in 2017, allows recipients to use the OLY post-nominal—a distinction that acknowledges their elite sporting status and lifelong connection to the Olympic movement.
The OLY designation serves as more than just a title; it symbolises the resilience, discipline, and highly transferable skills that Olympians develop throughout their careers. These attributes extend beyond competition, opening doors to professional and leadership opportunities worldwide.
The SAOA, established in 2022 as the official national chapter of the WOA, plays a crucial role in supporting South Africa’s Olympians. Through initiatives such as athlete development programmes, milestone celebrations, networking opportunities, and educational workshops, the association remains committed to its core mission: “Service to Olympians and Service to Society.”
The ceremony marked a historic collaboration between SAOA and SASCOC, paving the way for future initiatives that will further empower and celebrate South Africa’s Olympic athletes.
SASCOC President Barry Hendricks expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating: “Hosting this ceremony at Olympic House is a proud moment for us. It reinforces our partnership with SAOA and our shared commitment to supporting Olympians beyond their competitive years. This platform allows them to connect, share experiences, and continue promoting the Olympic values.”
SAOA President Steve Evans echoed these sentiments, highlighting the significance of this milestone: “Today is a momentous occasion as we formally recognise our Olympians. Competing at the Olympic Games represents the pinnacle of an athlete’s career, but their journey doesn’t end there. This honour serves as a reminder that their impact continues well beyond the competition arena.”
Adding to the occasion, SAOA’s patron, Her Serene Highness Princess Charlene of Monaco, sent a congratulatory letter, extending her best wishes to the association and its honourees. A former South African Olympian from the Sydney 2000 Games, Princess Charlene remains a dedicated advocate for the Olympic movement and its transformative power within communities worldwide.
Among the distinguished recipients of the OLY pin and certificate were:
Gert Potgieter (Athletics, 1956)
Marcelle Matthews (Figure Skating, 1960)
Dario Torrente (Fencing, 1992, 2008)
Hendrik Mokganyetsi (Athletics, 1996, 2000, 2004)
Kelly-Anne Marnewick (née Williams) (Fencing, 2004)
Natalie Tychler (Fencing, 2004)
Iain Evans (Hockey, 2004)
Steve Evans (Hockey, 2004)
Stephanie Sandler (Gymnastics, 2004)
Khotso Mokoena (Athletics, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016)
Chris Dednam (Badminton, 2004, 2008)
LJ van Zyl (Athletics, 2008, 2012, 2016)
Carol Manson (née Joyce) (Canoeing, 2008)
Elvira Wood (Fencing, 2008)
Mike Wood (Fencing, 2008)
Kate Murray (née Roberts) (Triathlon, 2008)
Heinrich Barnes (Wrestling, 2008)
Jyoti Chatturgoon (née Chetty) (Fencing, 2008)
Irvette van Zyl (Athletics, 2012, 2016, 2020, 2024)
Jessica Roux (née Osmond) (Swimming, 2012)
Jean Greeff (Weightlifting, 2012)
Dina Lebo Phalula (Athletics, 2016)
Kate Christowitz (Rowing, 2016)
Lee-Ann Persse (Rowing, 2012, 2016)
Micaela Bouter (Diving, 2000)
Jovan van Vuuren (Athletics, 2024)
Esti Olivier (Canoeing, 2024)
Bennie Labuschagne (Wrestling, 1992)
Nico Meerholz (Badminton, 1992)
Erin Gallagher (Swimming, 2020, 2024)
This prestigious recognition reaffirms South Africa’s commitment to celebrating its Olympic legacy, ensuring that these athletes continue to inspire future generations both on and off the field.