Pistorius predicts hard race at Paralympics

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 28: Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius of South Africa smiles during a press conference ahead of the London 2012 Paralympic Games on August 28, 2012 in London, England.

London, Aug 29 (IANS) Paralympic icon Oscar Pistorius said the men’s T44 100 metres final at the London Paralympics will be difficult to win.

The South African is the defending champion but had been focussing on qualifying for the 400-metre race in the Olympics, reports Xinhua.

Only last week did the 25-year-old run the 100 metres for the first time in 16 months.

“I think it’s important to note I haven’t run a 100 metres personal best in five years,” said Pistorius, who will also race in the 200 metres, 400 metres and 4×100 metres relay.

“It’s not really my event. Although I do feel threatened, I don’t feel helpless. If I can just get in the top three I think I’d be very happy.”

“My focus is on trying to defend my titles, but then I have to be realistic and say the 400 and 200 metres are the events I am better suited for,” added Pistorius.

Pistorius, who will carry the South African flag at Wednesday’s opening ceremony, revealed he had lost 11 kgs since Beijing 2008, but had spent the last three weeks in the gym to bulk up as much as possible for the shorter sprints.

The first round of the men’s T44 100-metre event takes place on the 5th of September.