A Mamelodi amputee and former drug addict is targetting the Comrades ultra-marathon next year after finishing the Centurion marathon on Monday.
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Cancer survivor Xolani Luvuno’s talent was discovered by Hein Venter a year ago.
Venter told Rekord that he rescued Luvuno from drugs and gave him a job.
“I helped him with his drug addiction and thereafter, I encouraged him to start running.”
“On Monday, he completed the 42km marathon on crutches and hopefully next year, he can complete the Comrades,” he said.
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Luvuno’s leg was amputated eight years ago because after he was diagnosed with bone marrow cancer.
Venter said Luvuno had an inspiring story to share not only with South Africans but the world.
Social cohesion activist Yusuf Abramjee said he spotted Luvuno running with Venter in Centurion.
“I’ve just spotted this runner in Centurion running The Wally Hayward. I salute his courage and willpower.”
“Hein tells me he picked-up Xolani near a bridge in Irene a year ago. He was homeless and addicted to nyaope. Hein got him off drugs and gave him a job at his perfume company and finally got him into running.”
Luvuno made a video of his awe-inspiring story in which he credits Oscar Pistorius for giving him the courage to run.
“I saw him a few times when I was still begging in Brooklyn,” he said.
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WATCH VIDEO HERE:
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