Sadie claims swimming bronze, calls for more Games on equal footing: 'It's more competitive'

Team SA flag bearer Christian Sadie got in on the medals action at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, after securing bronze in the men's 50m freestyle S7 final on Monday. 

Swimming in a time of 29.78, Sadie added to South Africa's growing medal showing at the games.

"I feel very privileged to be here and all the opportunities I've had here have been really amazing," Sadie said after his race.

The S7 is part of a classification based on an athlete's disability. 

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Sadie took the opportunity to speak about competing at a showpiece that is mixed with able-bodied athletes as well.

"Unpopular opinion: it is my wish that one day there are more games that take place like this; side by side. 

"It does give a bit more atmosphere to everything, and unity in a different way. This [Commonwealth Games] is a bit more competitive," Sadie said, adding that when para-athletes meet it's different because of the different journey's each individual is on.

By the end of the day on Monday, South Africa had recorded 12 medals.