Research: Oscar Pistorius

So as I mentioned in my last post, my 'Cyborg' theme has shifted slightly, from the Vitruvian Man to looking into the Paralympics and how athletes might benefit from the technological advancements we see so often these days.

Having done some initial research, I can't say I've found much to show other than Oscar Pistorius.


Pistorius is a South African paralympian who was born without a Fibula bone in either leg. Having both his legs amputated at a very early age, he learnt to master his artificial legs from the off and as he grew up became a very keen sportsman, particularly enjoying rugby and waterpolo in secondary school. 


After shattering his knee in June 2003 whilst playing rugby, he was advised by doctors to take up track running to help with the recovery and rehabilitation and began training under coach Ampie Louw at the Sports Science Institute at the University of Pretoria. 


Over the next year Pistorius took part in various school races and track sessions and in one, went on to beat the Paralympian world record! 


2004 seen Pistorius fitted with a pair of Ossur manufactured Flex-Foot Cheetahs. Shortly after, he headed off to the Athens Paralympics, winning gold in the T44 200 metres, again breaking the world record.

Fact file:


Born: 22 November 1986
Place of Birth: Johannesburg, South Africa
Hometown: Pretoria, South Africa
Amputation Level: Bi-lateral, below the knee
Main Events: 100m, 200m, 400m
Competitive Class: T43/T44
T43: Double below knee amputees and other athletes with impairments that are equivalent to a double below knee amputation
T44: Single below knee amputees and other athletes with impairments that are equivalent to single below knee amputee
Personal Bests:
100m: 10.91 seconds (South Africa, April 2007)
200m: 21.41 seconds (South Africa, March 2010)
400m: 45.07 seconds (Italy, July 2011)
Sponsors: Nike, BT, Oakley, Thierry Mugler