In Awe of the “Blade Runner” Oscar Pistorius

This writer is in absolute awe of the “Blade Runner” Oscar Pistorius, the double amputee who made it to the London Olympics to participate in both the individual 400 and the 4x400 relay. The sprinter from South Africa, who is also known as “the fastest man on no legs” will thus become the first amputee track athlete to compete at any Olympic games.

Oscar Pistorius was born with a congenital absence of the fibula in both legs and hence had to amputate his legs halfway between his knees and ankles when he was only 11 months old. However even in his childhood days Pistorius challenged his disability and played rugby, water polo and tennis in his school. He also played water polo and tennis at the provincial level in his country and took part in club Olympic wrestling as well. In the year 2003 he had a serious rugby knee injury and then he was introduced to running in 2004 while he was undergoing rehabilitation. 

Oscar Pistorius is a role model for all and it is almost impossible not to look at him with respect and awe. It is common sense that one of the most difficult things for a person with artificial legs would be to run. But Pistorius has overcome this difficulty and has become a professional runner and is going to run in the greatest sporting event in the world as a sprinter. He is a living example of what human mind is capable of doing if you have courage, grit and determination. As Oscar Pistorius’ sporting motto says, “You're not disabled by the disabilities you have, you are able by the abilities you have.” This writer would like to wish Oscar Pistorius all the very best for his sporting endeavours at the London Olympics. Viva Blade Runner!!!