Young Mokone on the right road to his goals

Denzel Mokone is a young para-cyclist who was a part of the first SASAPD para-cycling squad to compete in the CSA Youth Championships. Mokone shared his experience of the event, as well as his history in the sport and his aspirations both in cycling, and in general life. 

The cerebral palsy athlete, diagnosed with left-sided hemiplegia, which affects the nervous system on the left-hand side of his body, began cycling when he was in Grade 6. Mokone said: "I started cycling for fun. I did not take it seriously until I was in Grade 10, which is when I competed in my first national championships."

The 18-year-old, born on 29 August 2008, is now in Grade 12 and over the past three years, his cycling has developed quickly. Mokone qualified for the CSA Youth Championships thanks to his performances at the 2026 SASAPD National Championships in March. The polite and humble athlete shared his experience of the youth championships.

"I was very excited and nervous to compete. It was so cool seeing all the different athletes and the equipment. The highlight for me was the competing. It was so much fun, and I gave it my all, I am very proud of myself for making it to the event and competing to the best of my abilities."

Mokone works hard with a purpose. The young rider has big ambitions both in cycling, and in the working world. "My dream in sport is to one day compete at the Paralympics. I believe it is something I can achieve with enough hard work and dedication. 

"I have goals beyond sport too. I am not sure what profession I want to go into, but my education is very important to me. I want to graduate and work towards achieving financial independence and help support my family in the future."

It is not all work and no play for Mokone. In his free time, the Orlando Pirates fan enjoys playing football with his friends and supporting his club, while also enjoying taking advantage of his free time to relax.

The future is certainly bright for this hard-working and enthusiastic young cyclist. The next big event is the National Championships next year in Potchefstroom. An event that will surely feature the bright Mokone.