London – Oscar Pistorius stood alone on Sunday night when he spoke out about the use of different blades in Paralympic sprinting. But last night, it emerged that he has many supporters who share his fears.
As Pistorius qualified for Thursday’s 100 metres final, second fastest behind Britain’s Jonnie Peacock, it was revealed that a number of leading sprinters have complained to the governing body.
American sprinter April Holmes, a gold medallist in the Beijing Paralympics, defended Pistorius’ stance. The South African spoke out after he had been beaten in the 200m final by Brazil’s Alan Oliveira, who runs with longer blades.
Holmes said: “A bunch of athletes have got together to express their concern both to their Paralympic national governing bodies as well as the International Paralympic Committee and technical directors. We want our sport to be reputable. Oscar has inspired the world. He has set the standard, and people are still chasing him.”
Holmes added: “I had the opportunity to speak to Oscar and told him, ‘I’m so proud of you. It takes a great leader to stand up and tell somebody that they don’t think what is happening is correct, that the rule is not correct’.” – Daily Mail