POLOKWANE – At just 14 years old, Katlego Mokgoshi started spinning, following in the footsteps of his dad, Pux Setsiba.

Although he was still years away from obtaining his driver’s licence, he had already discovered the thrill of the sport.

“The love I have for a BMW E30 is exactly what drew me to the sport. The amount of adrenaline that ran through my veins told me this is where I have to be.”

A pioneer as a dad

Known in the spinning fraternity as ‘King Katra’, Katlego says growing up with one of Polokwane’s spinning pioneers gave him a headstart.

“My dad was one of the pioneers of spinning in Polokwane, so I had a shortcut into the sport. He taught me a lot about spinning and how it actually works. His influence taught me how to work smarter and not harder. It also showed me that all it takes is a smile and passion for what I do.”

King Katra admits his first experience behind the wheel did not go as planned.

“I was under a lot of pressure, performing in front of many people who had more experience than I did. Giving up was never an option, and that is why I am who I am today.”

He says one of his biggest challenges has always been performing alongside the legends of the sport in front of large crowds.

“It means a lot to me knowing and seeing that I keep making my father proud every day. Seeing my name grow bigger also keeps me going.”

As a pioneer in the sport, Setsiba taught his son valuable lessons, including always respecting those around him, staying focused, performing for the fans and keeping a smile on his face no matter what.

Joining the Monster Energy family

One of the biggest milestones in King Katra’s career came when he was welcomed into the Monster Energy family.

“That was the proudest moment of my career. Joining the Monster family is my biggest blessing in life. It was a breakthrough I never thought I would experience and a memory I will never forget.”

Although spinning is widely regarded as a dangerous sport, King Katra believes it can be practised safely.

“Young participants should always consider spinning, or rather drifting, in a safe private space where people will not be harmed.”

According to King Katra, success in the sport requires exceptional driving ability and confidence.

“You need 10 out of 10 precision driving and crazy stunts that will leave people with question marks.”

Raising the Limpopo flag higher

Looking ahead, he hopes to continue putting Limpopo on the map.

“My goal is to raise the Limpopo flag higher and make the people proud of me for representing them in important places, while never losing focus on what I love.”

He also has advice for young spinning enthusiasts who dream of following in his footsteps.

“Respect is the key to greatness. Humbleness builds a nation. Faith keeps you going. But education comes first.”

One of the best

King Katra says being recognised by the spinning community is something he never takes for granted.

“It feels great to be considered one of the best because it took a lot of courage and hard work to get here. Having the spinning community vote for me as one of the best means a lot and always reminds me never to disappoint the people who have supported me to this day.”