Rising up, back on the street,
did my time, took my chances
. Went the distance, now I’m back on my feet
, just a man and his will to survive . . .
The opening lyrics of the famous Rocky song “Eye of the Tiger” by ’80s pop group Survivor seem to describe aspiring boxer Xolisani Nohashe’s life story very aptly.
The 28-year-old, kitted out in trademark red shorts and red boxing gloves, runs 20 km to work and back daily while practising combos. He’s been doing it for almost two years – much to the amusement of motorists on the R102 – and is in the fittest condition of his life.
“I lost my mother in 2013, I’ve been surrounded by alcoholics, I spent some time on the street and delved into drugs, but one day I woke up and decided I wanted to follow a dream, and that’s the day my life turned around,” the slender athlete related, evidently proud of what he’s accomplished so far.
He sets off at 05:40 from his home in Makhaza, Khayelitsha, runs along Baden Powell Drive, across the N2 bridge, and turns onto the R102 (Old Strand Road) to reach his final destination at The Sanctuary Car Wash in Somerset West at 07:40, where he is employed.
When he’s late for work, he can make the run in an hour and 50 minutes, but prefers being early as he enjoys the run and would rather not rush it.
Nohashe grew up in Butterworth in the Eastern Cape, before moving to his family in Khayelitsha in 2013.
“Life wasn’t easy and we had many problems as a family. Although I slipped into a life of regret and depression, I was fortunate enough to make a life decision one day, and that was to pursue my dream of running a marathon and becoming a boxer.”
He admitted he’s had a late start to his journey to fitness and is yet to join a running or boxing club, but the most important aspect to him is that he’s confident, ambitious and in control if his life.
“I used to run early in the morning around Khayelitsha, before taking a bus or taxi to work, but one day I decided I should rather run to work. I’ve never looked back since.”
Nahashe used to take the N2 highway for his run, but several months ago was robbed by a group of armed men just outside Macassar. He has since changed his route and it’s proven to be a blessing in disguise.
“There are other people also running and cycling on the road, some of whom have become my friends, but it’s mostly the motorists who drive past me every day that have become a source of inspiration.
“People of all colours, black and white, hoot, shout, scream and wave, telling me to keep it up and keep it moving. It’s really pushed me to become consistent and, for the past year, I’ve been running almost 40 km a day, six days a week. The community has inspired me to keep going.”
He wanted to share his story with the people who support him on the road, so that they know his background and ambitions.
“I came from the streets and managed to turn my life around on my own. Those who encourage me on the road have really contributed to my positive attitude and mental health, and I have dreams of one day completing the Two Oceans Marathon and perhaps even entering the boxing ring for a bout,” he shared. “The sky’s the limit and I know I can achieve these goals one day.”
Nahashe extended his gratitude to all his “fans” and has his fingers crossed that some day soon more doors will open for his dreams to be realised.
V
To get in touch with Nahashe, call him on 072 032 8838.
