Bidvest, a South African services, trading and distribution company, has signed a new sponsorship deal with the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) to the tune of R66 million over a four-year period. The funding will be used to support the OPEX program, which provides assistance to athletes who have the potential to qualify for and win medals at multi-coded events under the organization’s umbrella of sports.

OPEX is the premier program for prospective Olympic and Paralympic medalists and consists of three different tiers that provide varying degrees of funding and support. The program places binding obligations on SASCOC, as well as detailed responsibilities and commitments on the athletes who join the program.

Akani Simbine Image (EPA-EFE/John G. Mabanglo)

SASCOC allocates funding to athletes based on plans and budgets submitted by these National Federations. While the allocations will be specific to the athlete’s needs, some items listed in the plan or budget may not be funded. Allocations are considered on a case-by-case basis based on each athlete’s circumstances.

With the support of Bidvest, the OPEX program will continue to offer South African athletes the opportunity to compete at the highest level and bring home medals for their country.

Bidvest OPEX SASCOC sponsorship