JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, March 17 – “Blade Runner” Oscar Pistorius on Saturday moved closer to a place at the London Olympics when he ran 45.20sec in the 400m at a regional qualifier, well within the required standard of 45.30.
The South African, who runs with carbon fibre prosthetic running blades, set the time at the Gauteng North provincial championships in the selection event for the South African National Championships.
“I am absolutely thrilled to have run the Olympic qualification time today. This is a huge moment for me and I am trying to take it all in. The race went well and the conditions were perfect,” said Pistorius in a statement.
“I could feel every step of the way that my race plan was in motion, I felt strong out there and when I crossed the line and saw the time it was such a magical moment for me.
“I am looking forward to hopefully being confirmed by SASCOC (the South African national Olympic committee) as a member of the South African Olympic team and I will do everything I can to train and prepare to the best of my ability and I would be proud to compete for my country at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“On behalf of all the team behind me, thank you so much for your continued support.”
Last year, Pistorius won a silver medal for his part in helping South Africa to reach the 4×400 metres relay final in Daegu, South Korea.
He was the first amputee to compete at the world championships.
