Amos Nkosi is as strong as an ox and ready to participate in a recognised Paralympics event at any given opportunity.
This 63-year-old from Pienaar is passionate about hand cycling and will not let anything hold him back to get to the top one day.
“I love sports and have always tried to keep fit as a boy. I used to play soccer and run with the Nelspruit Marathon Club until I became a paraplegic in 1985. My lower body just stopped functioning, and the doctors could not find anything wrong.”
Nkosi said he could not let his life come to a standstill because of his disability. “The doctors gave me a wheelchair that helped me to move around. I did not give up on my passion for sport. I got sponsored in hand cycling and used it to keep fit and participate in local marathons.”
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The pensioner said there are two events that played a vital role in his life and love of sport. “In 1998, I participated in a cycling tour starting at Valencia and going to Komatipoort. It was an amazing experience, and I was awarded a silver medal for my efforts as a hand cycler. I also travelled overseas for the New York City Marathon. These races encouraged me to persevere and work harder.”
He said the challenge he faces as a paraplegic athlete is the lack of sponsorship. ”
I keep asking the people whom I believe are equipped to help me, but they refuse to help. But I will keep asking for help, train harder and hope that my wish to participate in a national or even international Paralympic event will come true.”
Nkosi said for now he will keep participating in local marathons if possible.
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“Though my age would make it impossible to achieve my dream, I will not lose hope to showcase my talent with the rest of the country and the world,” Nkosi said.
Contact Nkosi on 071 406 4696.
