Twenty-year-old Minke Janse van Rensburg, a swimmer with Down syndrome, received a hero’s welcome at George Airport on Sunday, August 31, following a sensational performance at the 2025 Virtus World Swimming Championships in Bangkok, Thailand.
In a display of unparalleled talent and determination, Minke set seven new world records and brought home an incredible haul of eleven medals—six gold, two silver, and three bronze. Her achievements contributed significantly to the South African team’s success at the world-renowned event.
Family and friends, eagerly awaiting her return, filled the airport with balloons, soft toys, and flowers. Minke’s face lit up as she was greeted by her supporters, including her swim coach, Josua Vorster, and his father, Franna Vorster, owner of the Garden Route Swim School. The Vorsters both agreed that Minke delivered the performance of a lifetime, solidifying her place as one of the world’s most elite swimmers in her classification.
The championships also provided a special reunion for Minke, who joined a South African relay team alongside her longtime friend, Savanna Haselau, who now lives in KwaZulu-Natal. The two friends and their teammates from Gauteng delivered a standout performance, further adding to the team’s medal count.
Following a well-deserved rest day, the community looks forward to celebrating Minke’s extraordinary international adventure. Her journey from a local swimmer to a world record-breaking champion is an inspiration to all, proving that dedication and hard work can overcome any obstacle.
