Boikie Monareng’s journey is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the transformative power of sports. Born with a hearing disorder, Boikie’s early life was fraught with challenges, including rejection, bullying, and physical abuse. “I was considered the slowest learner in my grade, and I relied on sign language to communicate,” he recalls.
In 1995, a pivotal moment arrived when a German doctor donated funds for a life-changing operation. At the age of 14, Boikie underwent surgery in Pretoria, regaining his hearing and opening the door to a world of possibilities. Following his recovery, he attended Sonita Boarding Special School, where he discovered a passion for sports that would shape his future.
“Everything sports-related began in that school,” Boikie says. He excelled in running, swimming, cycling, and rugby, eventually becoming a school prefect and class captain. His love for athletics continued to flourish, leading him to become a Comrades Marathon athlete, completing nine gruelling races.
A Heart for the Underprivileged
Years later, Boikie’s life took a new direction when he visited a children’s orphanage in Bela Bela. There, he encountered Njabulo, an 8-year-old boy with worn-out shoes, and Lerato, a 10-year-old girl whose patched uniform spoke of resilience. “Seeing the struggles of these children ignited a fire within me,” Boikie reflects.
Determined to make a difference, Boikie founded “Run Boikie Run” a charity dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through education and sports. His mission is clear, to provide essential items such as school uniforms, shoes, and stationery while introducing sports programs to keep kids off the streets.
The Wheelbarrow Challenge
On October 22, 2024, Boikie will embark on the “Wheelbarrow Challenge”, pushing a wheelbarrow from Musina to Bela Bela to raise funds for the orphanage and its young residents. “Every step I take is a testament to the power of resilience and compassion,” he states.
Thanks to Boikie’s unwavering dedication, Njabulo and Lerato now wear crisp uniforms and sturdy shoes, holding pens and pencils that symbolize hope and opportunity. His efforts are not just about providing necessities, they are about inspiring the next generation to break free from the cycles of poverty.
Join the Movement
Boikie’s achievements are remarkable:
- Comrades Marathon athlete (2007) with the best marathon time of 7 hours
- Completed nine Comrades marathons
- Cycled from Zimbabwe to Bela-Bela for charity
- Finished eight IRONMAN races
- National Tug of War team player
- Ran 100 miles in Bloemfontein five times
- Ran from Pretoria to Bela-Bela in just 12 hours
- Hosted local races for kids, awarding over 8,000 medals
Beyond sports, Boikie is a dedicated workaholic, organising charity events and promoting mental health awareness through cycling initiatives. His ride of 1,566 km from Cape Town to Bela-Bela raised both funds and awareness for this crucial cause.
Celebrating Determination
As part of Disability Awareness Month, Boikie Monareng’s perseverance and determination shine brightly. His story inspires us all to look beyond physical challenges and recognize the potential within every individual.
“Boikie, you truly are an inspiration!” is a sentiment echoed by many whose lives he has touched.
Support Boikie’s Wheelbarrow Challenge and help create a brighter future for children like Njabulo and Lerato. Together, let’s weave a tapestry of hope, thread by thread.
Boike’s fundraising initiative is managed through his nonprofit organization, the RUN BOIKE RUN TOWNSHIP TRUST, Donations can be made to the following banking details:
– Bank: FNB Bank
– Account Name: RUN BOIKE RUN TOWNSHIP TRUST
– Account Number: 63120895826
– Branch Code: 255355
For any inquiries or further information, Boike can be reached at runboikieruntrust@gmail.com or via phone at +27 76 181 2592.
