Laureus Ambassador Natalie du Toit awarded MBE
September 30, 2013
There aren’t many sportspeople like Natalie du Toit.
Natalie became a hero of Paralympic swimming by winning FIVE golds at Beijing 2008 and another THREE at London 2012.
But this isn’t where her achievements end.
Natalie made history at Beijing 2008 on becoming the first ever amputee to qualify for the Olympic Games, where she finished 16th in the 10km open water swim. At the time she was one of only two athletes to have competed in both the Olympic Games AND the Paralympic Games.
Now, in recognition of her services to sport, she has been awarded an honorary MBE by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
The MBE is one of the highest civilian honours the British government awards.
As a youngster, Natalie had always been a promising swimmer. Then, in February 2001, she was hit by a car while riding her scooter back to school after practice.
Her left leg had to amputated.
But just three months later, before she had even started walking again, she was back in the pool, with the goal of competing in the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester.
Find out more about Natalie, who is also a Laureus Ambassador, and her incredible success here.
Congratulations Natalie on a much deserved honour.
