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I Ran for My Life: My Story
Kabelo Mabalane, South Africa’s number one self-proclaimed ‘pantsula for life’, shares his journey and insights, from being a multi-platinum-selling musician, through the highs and lows of drug addiction, to finding hope and life again through running (eight Comrades marathons and counting) and his faith. In I Ran for My Life , this ten-time SAMA award-winner, TV presenter, athlete and entrepreneur talks about growing between Soweto and the suburbs, the back story behind his phenomenal music career, and how getting into running literally saved his life. Along with his lessons for life, Kabelo shares his thoughts and advice on staying in shape, being prepared for anything and how to build a spirit of endurance in everything you do.
180 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2015
11 people are currently reading
161 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
September 10, 2021
From Pimville to Diepkloof. From Sacred Heart to St. Stithians. From a promising rugby player, an inspiring exchange student in the USA, to TKZee, TKZee Family, "sex, drugs 'n all things nasty", to returning to self. Simply Kabelo, and establishing himself as a PANTSULA 4 LIFE.
Kabelo's story is one if self-destruction, perceived missed opportunities and self-medicating with drugs and alcohol. A story about what self-doubt and self-limiting beliefs do to your perception of self. A story of why always seeking outside validation cripples growth and progress. Like waiting for permission to be, to do, to have. A story of triumph and acknowledging that we are but human and will err time and time again. A story of reaching out to your Inner Child and asking for forgiveness from them. A story of wanting TO BE THE BEST FOR YOURSELF.
Written like one would run the Comrades Marathon. With dips and twists. Inclines and declines. Highs and lows, but forever keeping the goal in mind, knowing that encouragement is there throughout the grueling route, Kabelo literally RAN FOR HIS LIFE in order to reclaim it.
A fantastic read for those if us who are struggling to find our purpose, those stuck in self-destructive behaviours. There is always a way out. You just have to want it hard enough to find it.
Kabelo's story is one if self-destruction, perceived missed opportunities and self-medicating with drugs and alcohol. A story about what self-doubt and self-limiting beliefs do to your perception of self. A story of why always seeking outside validation cripples growth and progress. Like waiting for permission to be, to do, to have. A story of triumph and acknowledging that we are but human and will err time and time again. A story of reaching out to your Inner Child and asking for forgiveness from them. A story of wanting TO BE THE BEST FOR YOURSELF.
Written like one would run the Comrades Marathon. With dips and twists. Inclines and declines. Highs and lows, but forever keeping the goal in mind, knowing that encouragement is there throughout the grueling route, Kabelo literally RAN FOR HIS LIFE in order to reclaim it.
A fantastic read for those if us who are struggling to find our purpose, those stuck in self-destructive behaviours. There is always a way out. You just have to want it hard enough to find it.
March 1, 2018
I loved this book, i loved how Kabelo took responsibility for his actions and looked inwardly for his problems instead of laying blame on his surroundings or other people. He morphed from a drug addict to an inspirational human being, amazing father & husband and conquered the Ultimate Human Race. This book is a classic example of how far determination & perseverance can take you.
It is easy to read and I also had a blast guessing who the people in the book he is referring to are. He drove me down to memory lane when he elaborated on how the hit songs by TKZee that I loved so much were produced.
It is easy to read and I also had a blast guessing who the people in the book he is referring to are. He drove me down to memory lane when he elaborated on how the hit songs by TKZee that I loved so much were produced.
January 14, 2018
The story of Kabelo is told beautifully and with frankness. He did not only take me through the music industry, but placed me right into the Comrade's marathon. although his story links with that of Tokollo and Zwai, he did not speak for any of them while they were still in TKZee, facing hardships. You get to learn how Bouga Love met his beautiful wife too in the book and it also has lots of great advice about some of us who would love to take running to another level.
March 30, 2016
The book touches on two worlds, one of a struggling musician who makes it big and develops a drug habit along a way and that of a runner. The later is what attracted me to the book, I have running goals for this year and I find that it doesn't matter what your reason for wanting to run is, its not easy and in order to make it you have to push yourself no matter how you feel.
The book is inspirational and I recommend it to an ordinary person that wants to run their first half or full marathon and not only stop at that but continue forward victoriously.
The book is inspirational and I recommend it to an ordinary person that wants to run their first half or full marathon and not only stop at that but continue forward victoriously.
June 24, 2016
This is an inspirational journey. The book examines the daily battle between good and evil. Kabelo writes from the heart-you can see him speak through the words. His book uses his running journey as a median which strings his life experiences together. A quote that captures the morality embedded within the book is "Don't buy property in the land of failure and disappointment." This is, after all, how the author himself gets to overcome the milestones that pace his life.
From a critiques perspective-I think he ought to have worn Reebok branded running gear on the cover of the book. The brand is a pivotal part of his journey and no synergy ties link the visual to the written. He also tends to repeat himself a bit and I gather this is due to the beautiful simplicity the book is toned on. He already paints such a clear visual such that there is no need to rehash points he has already alluded to. He leaves the book hanging. Yes he tells us his story but he does not close that part of it off-he is quick to jump to the training when the reader still yearns to hear more.
All in all this is a fantastic read and I will be following his marathon training guide for my first marathon in September.
LTM
From a critiques perspective-I think he ought to have worn Reebok branded running gear on the cover of the book. The brand is a pivotal part of his journey and no synergy ties link the visual to the written. He also tends to repeat himself a bit and I gather this is due to the beautiful simplicity the book is toned on. He already paints such a clear visual such that there is no need to rehash points he has already alluded to. He leaves the book hanging. Yes he tells us his story but he does not close that part of it off-he is quick to jump to the training when the reader still yearns to hear more.
All in all this is a fantastic read and I will be following his marathon training guide for my first marathon in September.
LTM
December 31, 2015
This is an inspirational book in terms of how Kabelo turned his life around. If you have lived in South Africa through his TKZee era to his running days the book offers nothing new, except bits about his growing up. It was very interesting to discover that Kabelo was part of the Gifted Child Programme.
I love Kabelo, so if you love him you will enjoy the book but adjust your expectations.
I love Kabelo, so if you love him you will enjoy the book but adjust your expectations.
June 14, 2016
This is an important story with a lot of lessons, for youngsters who continue to struggle against drug/alcohol abuse, it is a story of triumph.
As much as the title is fit for the story and how it is written but a book about Kabelo's life should have been Pantsula For Life.
As much as the title is fit for the story and how it is written but a book about Kabelo's life should have been Pantsula For Life.
November 21, 2015
The book is a well written book. It was also very inspirational.
March 19, 2023
"I Ran for My Life" is a memoir by Kabelo Mabalane, a South African musician and actor who rose to fame as part of the popular kwaito group, TKZee. The book details his struggles with drug addiction, his journey towards recovery, and his newfound passion for running.
The memoir is honest, raw, and deeply personal. Kabelo shares his experiences with drug addiction and how it affected his relationships, career, and health. He talks openly about his lowest moments, including being arrested for drug possession and losing his mother to cancer.
Through it all, Kabelo finds hope and redemption through running. He discovers that running helps him to stay focused, disciplined, and committed to his recovery. The book includes vivid descriptions of his training and running experiences, as well as the races he participates in.
One of the strengths of the book is Kabelo's ability to connect with his audience. He writes in a conversational and relatable tone, making it easy for readers to empathize with his struggles and triumphs. He also provides practical advice and tips for those who may be struggling with addiction or looking to get into running.
Overall, "I Ran for My Life" is a powerful and inspiring memoir that offers a message of hope and resilience. It is a must-read for anyone who has struggled with addiction, mental health issues, or personal challenges. Kabelo's journey shows that it's never too late to turn your life around and find a new passion and purpose.
The memoir is honest, raw, and deeply personal. Kabelo shares his experiences with drug addiction and how it affected his relationships, career, and health. He talks openly about his lowest moments, including being arrested for drug possession and losing his mother to cancer.
Through it all, Kabelo finds hope and redemption through running. He discovers that running helps him to stay focused, disciplined, and committed to his recovery. The book includes vivid descriptions of his training and running experiences, as well as the races he participates in.
One of the strengths of the book is Kabelo's ability to connect with his audience. He writes in a conversational and relatable tone, making it easy for readers to empathize with his struggles and triumphs. He also provides practical advice and tips for those who may be struggling with addiction or looking to get into running.
Overall, "I Ran for My Life" is a powerful and inspiring memoir that offers a message of hope and resilience. It is a must-read for anyone who has struggled with addiction, mental health issues, or personal challenges. Kabelo's journey shows that it's never too late to turn your life around and find a new passion and purpose.
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November 7, 2024Reading I Ran for My Life by Kabelo Mabalane felt like sitting down with someone who’s been through it all and came out stronger on the other side. Kabelo’s honesty about his struggles with addiction, the pressures of fame, and finding himself again through running is both inspiring and deeply relatable. His story shows that no matter how far down we may fall, we can always start fresh and rebuild with commitment. The way he turns running into a metaphor for life hit home, reminding me that with discipline and purpose, we can transform our habits and our entire outlook. It’s a must-read if you’re looking for a real, down-to-earth story of resilience and redemption.
May 25, 2020
Wow,I purchased this book now during the lockdown and it's still so relevant. What a touching and open story about your life Pastor Mabalane. I could relate to so many of the childhood memories and I also felt sad when he went through all he went through. I love how he took full responsibility for all the errors of his ways and actually did something about it. It has also inspired me to start running more for my mental health especially in these Corona times. May God bless you and your beautiful family.
January 22, 2019
Life changing book.
I love how it helps people who are interested in running.
I went from 10km for 21km for the first time in 2018.
I read ut again because I want to try a full marathon this year.
Absolutely love it.
I love how it helps people who are interested in running.
I went from 10km for 21km for the first time in 2018.
I read ut again because I want to try a full marathon this year.
Absolutely love it.
May 25, 2018
Bouga love thanx for a beautiful book and so relatable in my life. You have captured your story so beautifully and good luck with Faith Records
January 6, 2019
wow,very well narrated
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July 18, 2019Excellent read.
May 16, 2023
Mmmmmmm it's just okay I suppose... The author was somewhat all over the place. However it's a good gift for someone who may need some inspiration
October 12, 2021
Frank and relatable memoir of the pantsula that we have come to know as Bouga Luv.
Born in the year when TKZee was starting out. I appreciate the stories of how the musical act started out. This read made me feel like I was with the gents back at Saints and even on tour during the legendary Halloween era.
I ran for my life is a very honest, inspirational and remarkable read. And the fact that KB honours Moses Molelekwa is a big plus.
Born in the year when TKZee was starting out. I appreciate the stories of how the musical act started out. This read made me feel like I was with the gents back at Saints and even on tour during the legendary Halloween era.
I ran for my life is a very honest, inspirational and remarkable read. And the fact that KB honours Moses Molelekwa is a big plus.
January 14, 2016
It's great to see how Kabelo has changed his life. A good read however the input on running from the trainers and dietician I felt were not necessary.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2016
The best book i have read so far... very inspirational. reading this book showed me that no one is perfect and that hard work can take you far in life.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews