National orders to be awarded

Johannesburg - The SA Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc) on Thursday announced five new recipients of National Orders.

Wheelchair tennis player Lucas Sithole, swimmer Cameron van der Burgh, paralympic track athlete Fanie van der Merwe, Jomo Cosmos owner Ephraim Matsilele "Jomo" Sono and 800m track athlete Caster Semenya will all receive the recognition presented by President Jacob Zuma on Freedom Day, on 27 April.

"Sascoc commends a job well done by each and every recipient of the National Orders," said Sascoc CEO Tubby Reddy.

"These true heroes have contributed immensely towards the country's progression and in unifying our nation."

According to the government, National Orders are the highest awards that the country bestows on both its citizens as well as eminent foreign nationals who have played a pivotal role towards the progression of democracy.