Isaac Makwala through his book “The Solo runner” hopes to inspire multitudes of sports men and women out there who are having it rough.
The 400m runner and Olympic bronze medallist has opened on his journey in the book which is written by Dr Tshepang Tshube, who is a senior lecturer in the Department of Sport Science at the University of Botswana.
With his insight into the world of sports and the psychology of those who train to compete internationally, he shares valuable points for those aspiring to achieve and compete at an international level.
According to Dr Tshube, Makwala is a man who started from humble beginnings, but with hard work and determination he has managed to achieve something amazing. However, despite his success, there are challenges which are always present, and Makwala is not an exception. Dr Tshube said: “It took great discipline to overcome and deal with all those challenges.”
“The book focuses on Makwala from when he was born, as he grew up in Tutume village to when he started his career as well as when he won his first Olympic medal. It has 13 parts, each part talks about a different aspect that has to do with his career,” Dr Tshube added.
Moreover, Dr Tshube noted that Makwala is inspired by his passion to solve problems, working hard to achieve more in his life and overcoming all odds to make a name for himself. He said “Makwala was barred from competing at the 2017 world championships, in this book we took the liberty to investigate what really transpired, because that was a major event in his career. Barriers and challenges are the most outstanding aspects in this book as they will reach out and connect more with everyone who reads it.”
“He encountered several challenges, in overcoming all of them Makwala had to stay disciplined and focused on the bigger picture, with the help of his coach Justice Dipeba he has managed to surpass all challenges,” added Dr Tshube.
Moreover, Dr Tshube added that Makwala is retiring and he will be able to do things outside the track for once in his life. He said “after the Commonwealth games next year, he will be throwing a towel from being a professional athlete. Principles that has always paid off for him are elite discipline, focusing on the track and valuable cues.”
“About the Olympic medal, Makwala is excited because he went there with a purpose to get a medal and he achieved it. It is Botswana’s second Olympic medal, a great achievement indeed, this will inspire even generations to come that with nothing you can become something,” opined Dr Tshube.
Dr Tshube noted that there is a relationship between sport and psychology for those who train and compete internationally. He said “one has to show confidence, mental toughness, be motivated at all times as well as be hopeful to succeed in their careers.”
