OSCAR BACK IN THE GAME

OSCAR Pistorius caused a helse stir after competing in the Ironman 70.3 triathlon challenge in Durban last weekend.

The disgraced former Paralympian hero participated in the event that took place at uShaka beach on Sunday.

Pictures showed the 38-year-old being held up in the surf by mense, with his leg stumps out of the water.

Pistorius has been out on parole for the Valentines Day murder of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp in 2013 since January 2024.

Widely recognised as the “Blade Runner”, he completed the race, which consisted of swimming, cycling, and running, with a time of 5:56:39.

According to media reports, his attorney Conrad Dormehl confirmed the athlete’s involvement as “part of his rehabilitation”, and Pistorius’ parole officer allegedly approved his travel from Pretoria to Durban.

It sparked outrage from activists, including the United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO).

Oscar’s father Henke, declined to comment on his son’s participation.

Henke’s only response when contacted was that his son was capable of speaking for himself.

UDEMWO condemned convicted murderer Pistorius’ participation in the Ironman, labelling it a blatant insult to the memory of his deceased girlfriend.

Thandi Nontenja, MP and UDEMWO secretary-general, said of the organisation being appalled to learn of Pistorius participation: “His public return to sport as though nothing happened is a deep insult to the memory of Reeva Steenkamp and a painful reminder to her loved ones that her life was violently cut short.

“She will never again celebrate a birthday or milestone, while the man who ended her life enjoys the privilege of sport and public presence.

“This situation leaves a bitter taste for women in South Africa.”

She asked: “In a country overwhelmed by gender-based violence and femicide, how can a convicted murderer be allowed to resume normal life so easily? How is it possible that a man who committed such a horrific crime against a woman is now participating in events alongside law-abiding citizens?”

She added that Pistorius engaging in leisure activities was a “slap in the face” to the Steenkamp family and to every survivor of gender-based violence.

Nontenja said: “Public sporting events are for citizens who have not committed unspeakable crimes. We also demand a thorough investigation into the conduct of his parole officer.”