There is an update in the back and forth of whether or not Olympic gold medalist and newly-minted 200m breaststroke World Record holder Tatjana Schoenmaker would indeed receive an award from the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC).
Sports minister Nathi Mthethwa announced yesterday that Schoenmaker would be receiving a reward of R850 000 (~$58,000 USD) for her podium-topping performance in Tokyo just weeks ago. South Africa’s other medalist, surfer Bianca Buitendag who took silver, will be rewarded R220 000 (~$15,000 USD).
Schoenmaker’s reward was comprised of R450,000 for her 200m breast gold medal, R180,000 for breaking the World Record and then R220,000 for the 100m breaststroke silver.
Mthethwa said of the bestowment, “Let me take this opportunity to shower with felicitation both our athletes for doing exceptionally well at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Tatjana Schoenmaker who made us proud when she scooped gold and silver medals whilst setting a world record and Bianca Buitendag who equally added to our country’s glory by winning a silver medal.
“Thanks to both athletes for bringing pride and honor to our country and for uplifting our spirit especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I am equally confident that our Paralympians will do better and bring more medals which will be worthy of various celebrations and form part of our class of 2021 great achievers.”
We reported earlier this month Schoenmaker was at risk of not receiving a predetermined medal bonus due to financial difficulties within the SASCOC. Since that original post, the SASCOC took to the media to assure both athletes and fans that the organization did plan on issuing monetary awards, saying, “We will be rewarding medallists and the amount for each medallist will be announced in due course once we have finalised negotiations with our partners.”
Through gritted teeth a compliment as they clutch their purse.
Better be
As of today 2 Para Golds…..
Hopefully they are rewarded as well.
Excellent!!