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| Blade Runner in action |
Oscar was born November 1986 in a small town in Johannesburg. Oscar was born without his Fibula in both legs, so when he was 11 month old his legs were amputated just below his knees. Growing up, his disability never stopped Oscar for his love of sports playing water polo, tennis, wrestling and rugby. However, while rehabbing after a rugby injury Oscar found his true love... Running!
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In 2004, at the age of 18, Oscar ran in the Summer Paralympics, setting a World Record in the 200m sprint, with a blazing time of 21.97 seconds. The following year he set another World Record in the 400m sprint with a time of 47.37 second, as well as taking the gold medal in the 100m and 200m sprint (where he beat his old world record)
Oscar, obviously, had a great talent for running. He set his sights on what could be his greatest achievement, a spot at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. Oscar pushed hard, breaking some of his own records in the process. Unfortunately, Oscar could not qualify for the games as an individual, or the 4 x 400m relay. He refused being given the "Wild Card" spot on the team stating, "If I have to take part in the Beijing Games I should do it because I qualified." Controversy surrounds the decision that was made that year, but this will not be the last we would see of the "Blade Runner". Oscar, continues to aim high as he is training harder than ever for a spot at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
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| A strong runner, by any definition |
Oscar's story can be read in the 2008 Italian Autobiography Dream Runner, which was also translated to English in the Book Blade Runner A year later. Such strong performances goes to show that athletes shouldn't be judged on what is outside, but what is inside. Or, as Oscar has been quoted, "You're not disabled by the disabilities you have, you are able by the abilities you have." Aim high everyone, and you'll be surprised what you achieve.
3,2,1 GO!
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