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Bladerunner Sets Sights on 2012 Olympics

Posted May 20, 08 7:13 AM CDT in Sports 

(Newser) – Double-amputee sprinter Oscar Pistorius finally got the go-ahead to compete in the Olympics, but it took so long the 21-year-old Paralympic world record holder who runs on carbon fiber blades says he may not be able to make the cut for Beijing, and the London Olympics now appear more realistic. Pistorius says months of travel, tests, and "marathon conference calls" interfered with the training he'll need.

Pistorius’ fastest time in the 400-meter is 46.56, which is nearly a second higher than the 45.55 needed to qualify for the Olympics. "Realistically speaking, I have a better chance of qualifying" in 2012 because "I haven't had the chance to train," said the South African. Even if Pistorius doesn't qualify, he could be tapped for his country's 1,600 meter relay squad. Arbitrators last week overturned an ICC ruling that his racing blades give him an unfair advantage.

Source Associated Press

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Double-amputee sprinter Oscar Pistorius, Monday May 19, 2008. Pistorius says he's thrilled to have the chance to qualify for Beijing, but believes the London Olympics may be a more realistic goal.   (AP Photo/Bongiwe Gumede)
In this Friday, July 13, 2007 file photo South Africa's Oscar Pistorius crosses the finish line in the Men's 400-meter during the Golden Gala athletics meeting in Rome's Olympic stadium.   (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini, File)
In this Thursday June 21, 2007 file photo South African amputee champion runner, Oscar Pistorius, sprints during a training session in Pretoria, South Africa.   (AP Photo/Denis Farrell, File)
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2008 Beijing Olympics • 2012 London Olympics • Oscar Pistorius • Paralympics


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