The most recent time I spoke to Caster Mokgadi Semenya was a few years ago and while the passage of time has eroded the old memory bank to some degree, I suspect our conversation took place at the SA Sports Awards. The one thing I remember vividly is that the celebrated Semenya — one of the world’s most recognisable sports personalities who has won many awards, smashed several records and won numerous gold medals — seemed oblivious to her super stardom and shyly acknowledged the many fans who were screaming her name. Our discussion was interrupted several times by those who managed to scuffle their way past the security checkpoint and approached her for the prize they were all seeking, a selfie with the world-famous Olympic queen. Several other famous sportsmen and women were also present at the event but it was a seemingly nonchalant Semenya who stole the show. She took a million selfies with politicians, celebrities and ordinary people that night and eventually went home clutching...

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