B R Hlambela 
Credit to motorsport.co.za
A township known for its vibrant heart and resilient spirit, a young boy is leaving tyre tracks far beyond the dusty roads of Soweto.
Bohlale “Littleman” Mafokate, aged just ten, is already making waves in South Africa’s motorcycle racing scene.
With a passion inherited, talent nurtured, and milestones behind him, he is not just riding he’s aiming for greatness.
Bohlale Mafokate, nicknamed “Littleman,” hails from Soweto.
Motorsport runs in his blood his father, Zenzele Mafokate, raced bikes and shared with Bohlale the sounds, smells, and the thrill of the ride from a very young age.
Bohlale shadowed his father at tracks and on rides.
He was drawn to motorcycles, asking repeatedly for one of his own, mesmerised by engines, the roar of bikes, and speed.
At four and a half years old, Bohlale got his first bike full-time his own motorcycle.
His introduction to formal racing came when he entered the pocket bike short circuit racing series starting on kart tracks like Zwartkops, Vereeniging, Polokwane.
Even as his finishes improved only gradually 11th etc., observers noted a raw combination of courage, natural balance, and a growing awareness of technique.
He also competes in cross country motorcycle disciplines, showing versatility.
Competing in both helps build his stamina, adaptability, and riding skill.
Under his father’s tutelage, and with exposure to multiple racing environments, he’s become accustomed not just to speed, but to discipline, mental focus, and the physical demands of racing.
Bohlale has already secured multiple South African championships in his age categories.
In 2025, he was invited to represent South Africa at the Ohvale Supercup in Guangzhou, China 31 July – 4 August, where he would compete with peers from around the world.
This represents a major leap—to test himself on an international stage.
But even as doors open, financial hurdles remain. A fundraising campaign BackaBuddy was launched to gather support for travel, logistics, and other costs associated with competing abroad.
As a young black racer from Soweto, “Littleman” challenges common stereotypes about who motorsport is for in South Africa.
He becomes a role model for kids who think big but lack visible examples of reaching global platforms.
Young talent like his shows there are raw athletes with potential across townships with infrastructure, mentorship and financial support, South Africa could raise many more stars.
Discipline, risk management, focus under pressure these are skills racing teaches.
For Bohlale, it’s not just about winning—it’s about growing up with purpose.
About the Author
Viable News Team 