“Blade Runner” Pistorius storms out of radio interview

PARALYMPIAN Oscar Pistorius stormed out of a radio interview today after he was asked if he considered himself “an inconvenient embarrassment” to athletics authorities.

Double amputee Pistorius, became the first Paralympian to win an able-bodied World Championship medal on Saturday when he helped South Africa take silver in the 4x400 metres relay.

But he was then omitted from the final after running in the heats in Daegu, a decision that upset the 24-year-old.

Today, Radio Four presenter Rob Bonnet incurred his wrath when the journalist asked how his participation might be viewed by South African authorities and the IAAF, who were forced to allow him to take part in able-bodied events by a Court of Arbitration for Sport ruling three years ago.

“Some people regard you, no doubt, as an inspiration to Paralympic athletes, no question about that,” said Bonnet.

“But it might also be said that you’re a inconvenient embarrassment to the South African authorities and the IAAF because, effectively, you’re taking them into uncharted ethical waters here. What’s your reaction to that?”

Pistorius replied: “I think that’s an insult to me and I think this interview is over.

Bonnet denied he was being insulting but Pistorius replied: “That is an insult. Thank you very much.”

Pistorius also dismissed Paralympic legend Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson’s call for him to be stopped from running at the 2012 Games if he competes at the Olympics.

“If he makes the Olympics then his 400m event should not be run at the Paralympics because the Paralympics should never be a B final,” said Grey-Thompson.

Pistorius hit back and said he was determined to compete in both Games next year.

“I want to compete in both,” he told BBC Breakfast TV.

“I will be running the 100m, 200m and 400m in the Paralympics.

“I’ve got to run one more qualification time for the Olympics between January and June next year.”