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Benson Gicharu launched his autobiography "From Scars to Stardom" in Nairobi celebrating his journey from Mukuru slums to Olympic boxing.
From the squalor of Mukuru Fuata Nyayo Slums to the commanding heights of the boxing world, Benson Gicharu's autobiography, From Scars to Stardom, unfolds the gripping tale of a man who fought his way through life's challenges with the same vigor he displayed in the ring.
Six years after hanging up his gloves, the former Olympian and police officer launched his book in a colorful ceremony on Saturday night at Charter Hall in Nairobi, a place as rich in boxing history as Gicharu’s own storied career.
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11:23 - 10.08.2024
Benson Gicharu: Gloves off, heart open in 'From Scars to Stardom'
The former Olympian and national champion, Benson Gicharu, is set to launch his autobiography and continues uplifting his community post-retirement.
The venue was filled to the brim, echoing with the cheers of boxing fans, family, friends, and admirers who came to witness the unveiling of a story not just about boxing, but about overcoming adversity.
"The greatest regret one could have is to perish before using one's gifts and talents. Imagine being on your deathbed, and standing beside you are your unfulfilled goals, untapped talents, and the book you never wrote. They look at you with angry eyes, saying, 'We came to you, but you never brought us to life,'" Gicharu reflected during his speech.
His journey is not just a tale of physical fights but a testament to the battles fought outside the ring.
Born in the dense, challenging environment of the Mukuru slums, Gicharu faced hardships that would have stifled the dreams of many.
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His dalliance with boxing began as a means of self-defense against the neighborhood bullies who targeted him due to his small stature.
But soon, it turned into a passion that would shape the course of his life.
"When you sow a seed, it will not grow alone. Any act of kindness will come back to you, and that's why I have committed to helping those around me and everyone in society whenever I can," Gicharu added.
Gicharu's life changed direction when he joined a local amateur boxing school in Mukuru kwa Njenga.
It was here that he channeled his struggles into punches, learning the discipline and skills that would later define his career.
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The boxer once a vanished talent, is now a rising boxing star, seeking redemption in a title rematch against Syed Asif, defying odds.
Despite starting in the sport as a way to protect himself, he quickly showed a natural affinity for boxing, winning his first trophy at the tender age of 13.
His ascent in the boxing world was rapid but not without its challenges.
Gicharu candidly shares in his autobiography how he grappled with drug abuse early in his career—a hurdle he overcame through the sport that saved him.
Boxing provided not just an escape but a platform to rebuild his life, leading him to remarkable achievements such as winning a silver medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games and representing Kenya in the 2012 and 2016 Olympics.
The launch event itself was a celebration of Gicharu's dual legacies—his impact in the boxing ring and his ongoing contributions to society.
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14:54 - 04.05.2024
Kenyan boxer missing for two months after vanishing following Olympic qualifiers in Italy
Kenyan boxer David Karanja remains missing in Italy two months after losing at the Flyweight World Olympic qualifiers.
The night was not only about reminiscing on past victories but also about inspiring the next generation.
The venue featured several amateur bouts, symbolizing the continuation of boxing legacy and the sport's role in mentoring the youth.
In his autobiography, Gicharu does not shy away from the personal sacrifices made along the way.
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15:54 - 15.04.2024
Willie Limond: How former Commonwealth Super-Lightweight champion's final fight went beyond the ring
Boxing champion Willie Limond has passed away at 45 leaving behind a storied career and a deeply grieving boxing community.
The death of his father when he was young left his family struggling financially, which forced him to drop out of school in his teens and seek work in Qatar.
However, his resolve led him back home and eventually into the police force, continuing his education and his boxing career simultaneously.
Today, Benson Gicharu stands not just as a former athlete but as a beacon of hope and resilience.
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16:00 - 05.04.2024
Chris Juma: Form Two student causes biggest upset in Kenya Open Boxing championship
Africa Zone Three Bantamweight Gold Medallist Shaffi Bakari faced an unexpected defeat at the hands of a 16-year-old Form Two student in a quarter-final clash on Thursday.
His book is more than just a memoir; it is a call to action. It encourages young people to harness their potential and pursue their passions relentlessly.
As Gicharu aptly puts it, "What you love will always love you back."
Through his autobiography, Gicharu hopes to motivate the youth to recognize and use their gifts before it is too late, turning their potential regrets into stepping stones for success.
In his words and through his life’s story, he aims to demonstrate that indeed, power is unlimited and achievable for those who dare to dream and act upon those dreams.
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