‘I’d rather be a lawyer than a runner’, says paralympic gold medallist
AUCKLANDPARK - Samkelo Radebe, one of the most recognised paralympians quits running to pursue a career in law.
“I am living my dream now, and I am happy about the decision I took to leave paralympics for what I studied for, “says paralympic gold medallist Samkelo Radebe, who quit running to become a lawyer.
After taking Gauteng’s Sportsman of the Year and representing South Africa at the 2012 London Paralympics, the sprint runner has decided to venture into law full time.
“I attracted more media attention after the 2012 London Paralympics but I was still not satisfied… I know I am good at what I do but I also believe that a career in law will take me places I have never been before. That piece of paper [degree] that I received at my graduation is more than enough,” added Radebe.
When he was just nine years old, Radebe’s life changed when he suffered electrical burns. He lost his hands after playing with a wire kite next to an electric pylon, however he continues to live a normal life.
Meeting at Cresta Shopping Centre, the vibrant Radebe – who has a huge sense of humour – did not shy away from admitting that he left paralympics because he felt underpaid as an athlete. “I make more money now than I have made during my time as a paralympian. I was one of the lucky few people who have been offered articles in a law firm. I can’t mess up this opportunity for a career that doesn’t serve me,” says Radebe.
“Unlike soccer, cricket and rugby players, athletes don’t earn a salary, and we make more money than any other sports. We depend on our families and sponsors to stay in the game and I am tired of that, sometimes one doesn’t get sponsors.”
Radebe also advised that athletes should consider having plan B in their careers.
