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Bladerunner Sets Sights on 2012 Olympics
Training delayed, Pistorius thinks London more realistic than '08
By Doug Sweeney
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Posted May 20, 08 7:13 AM CDT
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(Newser)
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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.