The Race to Be Myself

A Memoir

By: Caster Semenya

Narrated by: Caster Semenya, Becky Motumo-Molete

World champion runner Caster Semenya offers an empowering account of her extraordinary life and career, and her trailblazing battle to compete on her own terms.

Olympian and World Champion Caster Semenya is finally ready to share the vivid and heartbreaking story of how the world came to know her name. Thrust into the spotlight at just 18 years old after winning the Berlin World Championships in 2009, Semenya’s win was quickly overshadowed by criticism and speculation about her body, and she became the center of a still-raging firestorm about how gender plays out in sports, our expectations of female athletes, and the right to compete as you are.

Told with captivating speed and candor, The Race to Be Myself is the journey of Semenya’s years as an athlete in the public eye, and her life behind closed doors. From her rural beginnings running free in the dust, to crushing her opponents in record time on the track, to the accusations and falsehoods spread about her in the press, the legal trial she went through in order to compete, and the humiliation she has been forced to endure publicly and privately. This book is a searing testimony for anyone who has been forced to stop doing what they love.

©2023 Caster Semenya (P)2023 Jonathan Ball Publishers

Courage

I am very grateful that she took the time to write her story. I understand better what she went through back in those early days and I’m very appreciative of her being vulnerable and thoughtful and honest.

What a Fascinating Woman! So happy to hear your story in YOUR own words!

I have such admiration for your psychological strength throughout your life. The torment you’ve been through is heartbreaking but your triumphs, resilience and passion are even more extraordinary! Congratulations on all you’ve achieved!👏🏽

Authenticity

Great depth of the human spirit and purpose.
Raw discrimination and perservance to the highest level of overcoming constant obstacles along the path.

Headstrong, young, and naive.

The book was interesting as it provided a lot of insight into Caster's childhood and the challenges she faced while running. The most noteworthy aspect of the book is the way the narrator tells the story. It was a pleasure to hear from such a skilled storyteller who could express her emotions so well. As I listened, I observed how some individuals could be both naive and determined, standing firm in their beliefs despite facing many obstacles. Castor's attitude bothered me because she appeared to be unwavering in her convictions, but it was a personality trait that ultimately helped her to evolve and mature. The epilogue at the end of the book was particularly powerful, and it demonstrated the true strength of her character.

Very interesting!

Although I do not run track, I found this book very informative. What she has and still is going through is shameful and heartbreaking. My heart goes out to her.