Oscar Pistorius

Guide Note:

Oscar Pistorius is a double amputee track and field runner. Pistorius runs the 100, 200 and 400 meter events with the aid of carbon fiber transtibial artificial limbs.

In January of 2008 the IAFF reviewed his performance using the devices, and banned him from participating in the Olympics because they felt the devices gave him a technological edge over his competitors. On May 16, 2008 the CAS in Switzerland overruled the ban and said he can participate in the upcoming games in Beijing.

Fast Facts:

1. Born: November 22, 1986
2. Birthplace: Sandton, Gauteng,South Africa
3. Nickname: "Blade Runner"
4. Lost both legs below the knees as a young child
5. Holds Paralympic Games 100m Bronze (2004)
6. Original IAFF ruling denied Pistorius entrance into the Olympics
7. CAS overturned the ruling on May 16, 2008

Oscar Pistorius was born with a birth defect that resulted in both fibulas missing from his legs. His legs were amputated when he was only 11 months old. He began taking part in sports during high school, where he participated in water polo, tennis, and Olympic wrestling.

1. "You're not disabled by the disabilities you have, you are able by the abilities you have."