Young Chiawelo cyclist aims to break barriers
Sports can be one of the drivers of setting a bright and disciplined future for the youth of South Africa, and township schools can try to bring back the significance of sports in the life of learners.
Young cyclist, Katleho Clement Manare (18) from Chiawelo believes that cycling has narrowed him into becoming this disciplined young man he is today.
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His journey as a cyclist began in 2019 when he was 15 years old introduced by his uncle Modise Molefe and also found motivation from watching big races like Tour De France.
According to be him cycling has instilled great discipline and the significance of decision making especially on lifelong consequences.
It has also ignited the desire to make an impact for other young black people in a space that mostly white dominated.
“I want to be a professional cyclist and take this opportunity to penetrate the spaces that were created for white people and try opening up spaces for other young black cyclist like myself,” he said.
He added that the emotional and financial support he receives from his mother and sister has also motivated him to remain consistent and work hard to not only cycle for fun but produce good results for himself.
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His sister Thato Mphuthi said that, “Cycling has helped him discover himself because growing up he was really indecisive about what he wanted to do and seeing cycling shaping him into becoming this responsible young man and that makes me really proud of him.”
Sports can be one of the drivers of setting a bright and disciplined future for the youth of South Africa, and township schools can try to bring back the significance of sports in the life of learners.
He mentions that, “I’m a firm believer in multitasking since I am juggling between school and cycling. On weekend I’m cycling and Monday – Friday is for my school work and that is how I try to balance the two.”
Last year September, he had his first race and received the fifth position at the Curro Hazeldean competition. He then participated on the 947 Joburg race earlier this year.
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“Cycling has taught me a lot of discipline and patience. It taught me perseverance, because at times regardless of the amount of hard work you put, the outcome may not always favour you,” he said.
Katleho encourages young people to discover what they are passionate about, something they love nad to always surround themselves with the ones they love and to stay determined.
“We can’t always be fixated on a goal, have fun and enjoy life. But always stay disciplined and rooted into what you believe in and don’t just go with the wind.”
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