Randburg athlete Tiisetso Sebata spoke openly about the long and difficult journey that led to his proud international victory in Singapore. A race he describes as a turning point in his life.

Sebata said his running journey began in primary school for a simple reason: Free ice lollies after cross-country. “I didn’t love running, but I kept showing up.”

Even with little training, he often finished in the top ten, but he never imagined running could take him anywhere.

Read more: Local young wrestler Bryson Lubbe dominates the South African National Championship

High school brought recognition, but also pressure. His school did not prioritise athletics. He struggled academically, and he trained mostly alone. “Winning became my identity. Anything less felt like failure.” The fear of losing took the joy out of the sport.

When university began, he studied online, feeling even more isolated. His running became inconsistent and eventually faded away. That changed in 2023, when he met athlete Nicola Smith. Her positivity and balanced approach changed the way he saw the sport. “She trained with passion and humility. She showed me you can be kind and competitive at the same time.”

Through her, he joined Michelle Mee, at MCM Coaching, who played a vital role in rebuilding his confidence. “Coach Mee saw something in me I could not see in myself.” At MCM, he found a warm community, and even had opportunities to assist younger athletes.

He later joined Ekhaya Athletic Club, which quickly felt like home. “It was the first time I truly felt like I belonged.” Becoming a youth captain gave his running more purpose, and uplifting teammates became part of his identity.

Preparing for Singapore, Sebata followed what he calls the fundamental fives: Speed work, strength training, easy runs, long runs, and much-needed rest days.

He also studied his expected competitors closely, but minutes before the start, he discovered that the Singaporean national athletes ran in a separate race with an earlier start. “It felt like I had studied for an exam only to find I was being tested on something else.”

The moment left him sitting alone in disappointment, questioning whether to continue, “but I told myself elite athletes keep going after adversity. So, I stood up, dusted myself off, and chose to run for the people back home.”

He said thinking about South Africans watching on their screens gave him strength. “I ran to make them proud.” Crossing the line brought a feeling of deep fulfilment.

Singapore’s heat and humidity were demanding, with temperatures between 30°C and 35°C. “On my first day, I felt like I would pass out.” Arriving 10 days before the race helped him adapt, and by race day, the conditions no longer troubled him.

Also read: Sharonlea racers dominate the Historic Single Seater Championship 

His favourite moment was sharing joy with cheering spectators. “I waved and smiled at them because running should still be fun.” After the race he was approached for photos and interviews, an unexpected but memorable experience.

Before big races, Sebata keeps his routine simple: Sleep well, eat clean, and avoid anything that could unsettle his mind. Spiritually, he draws strength from prayer. “On race mornings I pray, then look in the mirror and speak only positive words. It keeps me calm and focused.”

He encourages young athletes to believe in themselves. “My biggest barrier was my own self-perception. Look around you. There are people who see you as the star you are.”

With winning in Singapore marking the highlight of his year, he now aims to build strength for the 2026 season and focus on qualifying for the SA 5 000m championships.

Reflecting on how far he has come, Sebata said: “Running is something I love. Getting better while being a positive influence on others is the best feeling in the world.”

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!