Pistorius's return to sport 'disrespects Steenkamp's legacy'

THE United Democratic Movement Women's Organisation (UDEMWO) has condemned convicted murderer Oscar Pistorius's participation in the Ironman 70.3 triathlon in Durban last weekend, labelling it a blatant insult to the memory of his deceased girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp.

- KAREN SINGH

Pistorius made his first public appearance in sports since being granted parole in January 2024, following the murder of Steenkamp 12 years ago.

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

His startling return to the public sporting domain has triggered vehement reactions.

Thandi Nontenja, MP and UDEMWO secretary general, said the organisation was appalled to learn that Pistorius participated in the triathlon.

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

Nontenja stated that this was unacceptable, and the fact that Pistorius was granted parole in the first place was a travesty of justice.