PARALYMPICS / Newsmakers

Oscar night: Pistorius did it in style
By Lei Lei
China Daily/The Paralympian Staff Writer
Updated: 2008-09-17 09:47

 

 
Oscar Pistorius of South Africa celebrates after winning the final of the men's 400 metre T44 classification event at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games in Beijing on September 16, 2008.[Agencies] 

It was not only a third gold medal for the "Blade Runner" at the Beijing Paralympics - Oscar Pistorius did it in style with a world record.

The South African fulfilled his dream of sweeping all the three sprint gold in his category at the Games by winning the 400m T44 race on Tuesday at the Bird's Nest in a world record 47.49 sec.

"I'm delighted to break the world record," he said. "I had a lot of pressure in this competition since many people hoped that I win the gold again."

Disappointed at not qualifying for the Olympics last month, the 21-year-old came to the Paralympics to participate in three events - 100m, 200m and 400m, for which he is the current world record holder in all three.

His slow start in the 100m and a wet track during the 200m race slowed his pace and he was unable to set world records earlier, although he won both the races .

Last night, he finally set his 27th world record in the last race.

"It was a very emotional race since I was competing in my last race in the Beijing Paralympics," he said. "I wasn't feeling so well in the last couple of days and I got a little bit nervous for tonight.

"But I was able to break the world record. I couldn't ask for anything more. I've really had an amazing time in the last couple of weeks. I'm really happy to be part of the Paralympic Games and achieve those gold."

Having concluded his second Paralympic journey, Pistorius said he continues to enjoy athletics very much.

"My dream is to one day have a full 11-boy soccer team. But everything happens in time," he laughed.

"Now I'm really enjoying athletics. I'm really enjoying sports. I think it taught me not just about performances, but also physical ability and about life.

"Maybe one day I will turn to other things, but currently I'm enjoying athletics and will keep my focus and priority on it."

Competing with able-bodied athletes in the London 2012 Games is definitely his ultimate goal and he also set himself a near-term target for the World Championships for able-bodied athletes next year.

"I will work harder. Next season is really a big one and I should do more," he said. "I will try to take part in the Berlin World Championships next year."

 

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