Foreign Olympians eyeing medals in Beijing

Source: CCTV.com | 07-25-2008 09:53

The first ever disabled athlete has qualified for the Olympic Games. South African swimmer, Natalie Du Toit, has fought the odds and earned a chance to compete in Beijing next month. And athletes from the Netherlands and Australia are also making their final preparations.

Sometimes it's important to swim your own race, and that's exactly what this remarkable South African swimmer has been doing.

Natalie Du Toit lost a leg in a motorcycle accident in 2001. But since then, she has become one of the most successful disabled athletes of all time. She has won a total of 10 golds at major events, including the 2004 Paralympics.

Natalie will now compete in the 10 kilometer Outdoor Swimming Marathon at the Beijing Olympics. No matter the result, she has already been an inspiration to many.

In Australia, Grant Hackett, the world record holder in the 1500 meter and 800 meter freestyle, is set to depart for the Chinese capital.

He broke his own 800 meter world record just a week ago in a short course swimming championship in Australia, no doubt it boosted his confidence for Beijing.

In the Netherlands, competitors in the Equestrian events are hoping to hit their best form in Olympic competition. The country has won four golds and six silvers since the Barcelona Olympics in 1992, and they hope to continue their success in Beijing.

Editor:Xiong Qu