Help renowned Norkem Park athlete get his book published
The book, now ready for publication, recounts Ramphele's incredible life journey, from his triumphs on the track to his battle with death.
Norkem Park resident and renowned athlete Simon Thobatji Ramphele is seeking community support to publish his powerful autobiography, I Beat Bruce Fordyce, I Cheated Death: The Life and History of Simon Thobatji Ramphele, A True Story of Human Courage and Survival.
Ramphele needs R200 000 to bring this personal and inspirational story to the public.
The book, now ready for publication, recounts Ramphele’s incredible life journey, from his triumphs on the track to his battle with death.
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Ramphele, who famously beat South Africa’s legendary Comrades Marathon champion Bruce Fordyce in time trials, survived a near-fatal shooting in 2015 after being struck by two bullets in the heart.
According to Ramphele, his dream is not only to share his story but also to give back to the running community.
He envisions building a high-tech facility in Durban to support indigent runners who arrive each year for the Comrades Marathon without proper accommodations.
“These runners often sleep on pavements and wash at McDonald’s,” he explained, highlighting the challenges they face in preparing for the race.
With this facility, Ramphele aims to change the face of road running in South Africa.
Lesego wa Lesego, author of the book, describes it as a spiritual and reflective narrative that explores life’s purpose through the lives of its protagonists.
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“How do we find our purpose? By being present, non-judgmental, and letting go of negative emotions like anger, jealousy and hate,” Lesego said.
He was inspired to write the book after learning about Ramphele’s survival story and his dreams of uplifting the sport and assisting fellow runners.
Lesego encouraged South Africans to set a Guinness World Record by purchasing one million copies of the book before the next Comrades Marathon on June 8, 2025.
“Ekurhuleni, charity begins at home. Let’s come together and support one of our own,” he urged, hoping this project will inspire a cultural shift toward reading and learning.
Lesego believes the book holds special significance for Ekurhuleni, a city known for producing stars like Charlize Theron, Ray Chikapa Phiri, Lira, and Thandi Klaasen.
“Let Ekurhuleni from the East lead South Africa into a new era of unity, love, and peace.”
The book tackles complex themes, aiming to inspire resilience, foster unity, and encourage healing for individuals and the nation.
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It also addresses the challenges South Africa faces around race relations and national unity, calling for a “re-set” to overcome mistrust and division.
Ramphele’s life story serves as a testament to courage and generosity, embodying his deep faith and commitment to uplifting others.
“This book challenges us to rethink our beliefs and assumptions, encouraging hope and collaboration as a way forward for our society,” said Lesego.
For more information on how to donate, contact Lesego on 081 071 3727 or Simon on 082 055 5886.
Alternatively, residents can email lesegowalesego@gmail.com
