Disability proves no barrier to Olympic inclusion

By Paul Carter

Three disabled athletes could be competing among non-disabled counterparts at this summer’s Olympic Games in Beijing.

South African swimmer Natalie du Toit has now been confirmed in her country’s swimming squad for the Olympics, where she will compete in the 10km open water event. It is believed she will be the first person to compete in both the Paralympics and Olympic Games.

Moss Mashishi, president of the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee, said Du Toit’s achievement was “tremendous by any standard”.

He said: “We are immensely proud of her and I'm not sure if she recognises just how historic it is. She has put our country on the map in a way which has never been done before.”

Du Toit’s selection means that the South African Olympics squad could contain two disabled athletes. In May, a court ruled that Oscar Pistorius could compete against non-disabled athletes. He now has until 30 June to meet the qualifying time for the 400m.

Single arm amputee Natalia Partyka will also be competing at the Olympics, representing Poland at table-tennis in the team category.