Groundbreaking Olympian of the Day

In a surprise last-minute decision, the South African Olympic committee and national track federation said today that double amputee Oscar Pistorius can run in both the individual 400 meters and the 4x400 relay at the London Olympics. Pistorius, who runs on carbon fiber blades, will be the first amputee track athlete to compete at any games.

"Today is truly one of the proudest days of my life," Pistorius said in an official statement. "I am so pleased that years of hard work, determination and sacrifice have all come together."

He took to Twitter after the news had a little time to sink in: "Still on cloud 9 but need to keep at what got me here so off to the Gym. Thank you all who shared today with me, I really appreciate it!"

[ap]