In following up to Mr. Pistorius trying to run in the Olympics, I was reminded of this article I read a few years ago.  It appears that some were saying he had an unfair advantage years ago.  The artilce link is:

http://www.slate.com/id/2109441

I believe with the concept of prosthetics and competing in sports, if it is used to replace a missing part, that is ok, but if it is used to add (such as making one taller than they normally would be) then I think one is painting the grey areas of the rules to one's advantage when competing with others. 

It is sad to see that integrated competitions with non-amputees is being limited. I have gotten more personal growth by going to able-bodied tournaments than competing in disabled tournaments. It greatly helps one's self-image, for the competition in sports can be a microcosm of life, and in life, a great mix of people show that we are all interacting together.  However, one still has to follow the spirit of the rules, and if necessary, start a process to have the rules keep up with the technology so everyone can be judged on a level playing field.  I believe that Mr. Pistorius has done a lot for all amputees and handicapped people in all aspects of life with his running and news... I know that he has made my social interactions easier when meeting new people who find out I am an amputee.

 I am interested to see what others think and feel about this.

Donnie

Hey all,

The SF Chronicle did a little write up about a hike I did to Yosemite.  If you want to read the story, it can be found online at

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2007/11/25/MN10T8R79.DTL

or one can google sf chronicle and find the link.

Hope everyone had a great holiday start and that it continues all year.

Donnie