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Page last updated at 16:17 GMT, Wednesday, 21 May 2008 17:17 UK

Pistorius delays his Olympics bid

South African sprinter Oscar Pistorius
Pistorius is the world record holder in three Paralympic events

Paralympic star Oscar Pistorius will wait until July before attempting to qualify for the Beijing Olympics.

A ruling last week meant the double-amputee could compete against able-bodied athletes as his prosthetic limbs do not give him an advantage.

However, his manager has revealed the South African is not quite ready to start competing.

"Oscar's not in any kind of shape to compete at the elite level at the moment," said Peet van Zyl.

606: DEBATE
"He and his coach are going to get out of the limelight and concentrate on training and working hard."

Pistorious will continue to compete in the 100m, 200m and 400m at a number of upcoming Paralympic meets, before turning his attention to taking on able-bodied runners in July.

In order to qualify for the Olympics, Pistorius will need to lower his personal best from 46.33s to 45.55s.


see also
Pistorius eligible for Olympics
16 May 08 |  Athletics
Pistorius vows to continue fight
29 Jan 08 |  Athletics
Study ends Pistorius Olympic bid
14 Jan 08 |  Athletics
Pistorius gets IAAF green light
23 Jun 07 |  Disability sport
Pistorius sprints to new record
07 Apr 07 |  Disability sport
Amputee eyes Olympics
05 May 06 |  Disability sport


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