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XOLILE Yawa is a humble businessman who is dedicating his life to bettering the lives of struggling athletes.
He proved his benevolence by donating more than 20 trophies he won as an athlete to Chris Hani region in Eastern Cape to be used as floating trophies for school competitions.
The suave Yawa was inspired by ANC secretary-general Gwede Mantashe, among others.
His special talent as an athlete was acknowledged in Parliament by then state presidentg PW Botha.
Winning the Berlin Marathon in 1993 was one of his many achievements in a colourful career.
Yawa opened up to Sowetan during an interview at his posh home in Bloemfontein at the weekend.
What are your earliest memories as an athlete?
I remember growing up I used to see Matthews Batswadi and he was such an inspiration to me.
I admired him so much that I always wanted to just touch him because it would have felt like I was touching Jesus. That is how much I admired the man.
There was also Gwede (Mantashe), who was a great sprinter in his time. One thing about him was that he was always very supportive, always encouraging us to work hard so that our talents could take us far.
He was also a coach.
Tell us about some of your achievements.
In 1983 I won the cross-country Under-21 champion- ship and in 1985 I won the 10000m championship, a record I kept for nine years.
My time as an athlete brought me many accolades. Together with (boxer) Brian Mitchell, I also received the presidential medal from former President PW Botha in 1987. I suppose they had no choice but to recognise my talents as I cleaned up everything.
In 1988 I was voted by sports journalists South African sports star of the year.
Who inspired you to become an athlete?
My uncles. They were very good athletes and also had a love for football as well.
Can you tell us about the Berlin Marathon, which you won?
It was in 1993 and I remember that it was very windy that day, and I ran 2:10:57, narrowly missing out on the world record at the time.
Have you ever taken part in the Olympics?
I was in Barcelona Olympics in 1992 and also went to Atlanta in 1996. I did not finish there because of an injury. I was there also as one of Josias Thugwane's coaches and was thrilled that he won gold.
Looking back at your career, what would you like to tell your fans?
I'd like to say I am grateful for their support and the opportunities that the sport afforded me. I travelled all over the world and met some interesting people like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone and Michael Douglas. I was also handed the freedom of the city of Peoria, in the US, in 1994.
Who was your most difficult opponent?
Without a doubt, Matthews Temane. He was a better all- round athlete.
Have you got any regrets?
Not at all. I enjoyed my time as an athlete, and even this year I am taking part in the Comrades Marathon, something I've never done before.
I will only be going there to enjoy myself and not to try and win the money.
Do you remember your last marathon?
I think it was the Houston Marathon in 2002.
What are you doing at the moment?
I'm co-owner of Carecure, a hospital management company and we have facilities in Free State, Eastern Cape, Gauteng and North West.
What is your message to the current crop of athletes?
Our athletes must save money because most of them squander it. We have started an organisation called Legendary Athletes of South Africa, which is aimed at helping some of them.
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