Monday, January 14, 2008

Paralympic world record setter denied admittance to Olympic events because study deems his prosthetic legs an unfair "advantage."

Oscar Pistoris had both of his legs amputated as an infant, but has managed to defy the incredible odds against him, setting paralympic world records. The Track and Field governing body ruled against him on Monday, however. The committee ruled that Pistoris' prosthetics gave him an unfair advantage because the carbon fiber prosthetics “should be considered as technical aids which give him an advantage over other athletes not using them.”
I am glad to have learned about this interesting story because this issue delves into the battle of technology, law, and human capability. Where is the line between pure physical strength and skill and technological enhancements? Although Pistoris has clearly discovered means to overcome his physical challenges, Olympic officials do need to create rules that will apply as technology continues to adjust our would. I think the coverage by the New York Times for this story was well done, informative, and very interesting.

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