Issued by: The Office of the President
Dear Ezekiel
The country and I are delighted at your achievement in Atlanta yesterday.
You are an example of conquest over years of deprivation and alienation. Your silver medal is a source of pride for all the citizens of South Africa.
I watched the coverage of the race with keen interest and I was highly impressed by your fortitude. I am convinced that young men and women like you will serve as a nucleus of an even stronger olympic team in contests to come.
I am proud of you
(signed)
Nelson Mandela