Springbok superstar Cheslin Kolbe has made it to New York’s iconic Times Square – with his face lighting up a giant billboard in the heart of Manhattan.
The two-time World Cup winner’s appearance in the Big Apple forms part of a global campaign to promote his new autobiography, Sidestepping the Odds, which was released this month.
Arranged by his agency, Roc Nation Sports International, the campaign also features two billboards in Cape Town – one on the approach to Cape Town International Airport and another in Sea Point.
Written with award-winning journalist and broadcaster David O’Sullivan, Kolbe’s memoir charts his remarkable journey from the streets of Kraaifontein to rugby’s biggest stages.
The book explores the challenges he faced growing up amid crime, drugs and violence, as well as the doubts he overcame about his size.
Kolbe went on to represent Western Province, the Stormers, Toulouse and Toulon before continuing his club career in Japan, while becoming one of the Springboks’ most celebrated players.
“I grew up in a world surrounded by crime, drugs and violence, and I was told that I was too small to play rugby,” Kolbe said.
“I refused to let those challenges get me down. I want this book to inspire young people, as well as others who have been told they are not good enough.
“I want them to know that they too can rise above all expectations, that they can start believing in their abilities, and also remember that their current circumstances do not determine their future.”
Roc Nation Sports International president Michael Yormark said the billboard campaign was designed to give Kolbe’s story a global platform.
“It is such a special occasion to celebrate Cheslin’s inspirational book. We wanted to help amplify the launch of his memoir as aggressively as possible, and these outdoor billboards are a powerful example of just that,” Yormark said.
“It is a true testament to how dreams can come true through hard work and determination. I cannot wait to read this book.”
– Read an extract from Sidestepping the Odds in the November issue of SA Rugby magazine, on sale Friday, 23 October.
The post Cheslin takes a bite of Big Apple appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Springbok superstar Cheslin Kolbe has made it to New York’s iconic Times Square – with his face lighting up a giant billboard in the heart of Manhattan.
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