Arguably the biggest name set to compete in the Paralympics this year, South African Oscar Pistorius is the world record holder and defending Paralympic champion for T44 in the 100, 200 and 400 metres. Even though he is actually classified in T43 (double below knee amputee), Pistorius competes in T44 (single below knee amputees), where he has dominated across the 100, 200 and 400 metre disciplines.

Pistorius, nicknamed the "Blade Runner" and "the fastest man on no legs", also made history when he became the first double leg amputee to participate in the Olympic Games, running in the men's 400 metres and for the South African 4×400 metres relay team at London 2012.

In February, Pistorius was awarded the Laureus World Sports Award for Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability for 2012.