When a lump began forming in his neck, Philimon Sebona’s world turned upside down, forcing him to take a break from mountain biking – the one thing ingrained into his very being, since his early years growing up on a farm. However, this exceptional sportsman rose and recently relived the joy of his passion!
Pretoria, South Africa (27 March 2025) – Mountain biking courses through Philimon Sebona’s veins! This incredible sportsman not only recently got back to doing what his heart truly beats for but also got to compete in the gruelling yet rewarding Cape Epic iconic cycling event last week.
We connected with Philimon, who was forced to take an unexpected break from the sport after developing a lump in his neck in 2023, which later proved to be metastatic cancer.
“There were times when I thought I wouldn’t be able to run again. I lost my all from being myself and it was the hardest thing that I ever faced. I never knew how to be strong until it was my only choice,” shares Philimon.
Although that part of his life journey was tough, his hope was greater. Philimon then started an initiative called iThuba Mountain Biking, inspired by the desire to hold on to his love for cycling while nurturing young talent.
“Ithuba MTB was formed when the only thing that I was looking for was hope. Ithuba means ‘chance’. At the time, all I needed was a chance to be back on the bike while working with kids who have accepted me while developing their skills,” says Philimon.
He also recalls the children in his community noticing how he didn’t look the same while undergoing chemotherapy and radiation.
In October of last year, Philimon was cleared of his cancer, bringing a wave of relief throughout his nervous system and chills of emotional excitement as this signalled that he could return to riding his bike and competing.
The love for cycling goes all the way back to his humble years of living on a farm, when Philimon sold peanuts to buy his first bike and would ride anywhere and everywhere he needed to go as taxi fare was far too costly.
As for being back at competing in the Cape Epic this year? An absolute dream come true!
“I never thought that I would ever do it again in my life. This Cape Epic seemed impossible for me due to my body conditions. This year was also one of the hottest races and I battled through it. Being able to withstand that was a massive comeback for me. I was stronger than I expected.
“I’m so thankful to everyone who has supported me during the difficult times of my life.”
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