‘Blade-Runner’ debate

THE appearance of ‘Blade-Runner’, Oscar Pistorius, at the World Athletic Championships in Daegu, South Korea, has re-opened the debate as to whether or not he should be allowed to compete against ‘able-bodied’ athletes, writes Abu George.

Having had his legs amputated as a baby, Pistorius, known as Blade-Runner for his artificial limbs, the likeable South African has had to battle against prejudice, fear and court rooms just to be allowed to participate. He has also had to undergo countless tests to prove that his prosthetic legs provide him with no artificial enhancement.

Despite having numerous detractors, there are none who fail to be amazed at the performance of this remarkable athlete who becomes the first amputee to compete at the World Championships. He is so dominant in the ‘disabled’ events that he has to racing against the best in the world to find competition.
The opposition comes mainly from athletes, past and present, who believe there is no cast-iron proof that he receives no advantage from his blades.

Pistorius recognises the concerns and admits that this is no ‘exact science’ and strongly defends the ‘purity of sport’. He has had to make a concession that he will run only the first leg of a relay over fears that his blades could impede other runners along the main straight.

For now, his focus is being allowed to compete at the Olympics in London in 2012.