Quote:
Originally Posted by Cynthetiq
I think this is a no brainer. He shouldn't be allowed to compete unless the rules are designed that allow for it. Otherwise, what is stopping the creation of a new and improved prostetic device from bettering him? It isn't any longer going to be about the human, but about the technology surrounding and supporting him.
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Interesting point, but let's play devil's advocate for a moment. Look at speed skating. They wear a special suit to reduce drag, and their skates are technological wonder of honing and precise length. Swimmers also wear special drag-resistant suits and swim caps. Tennis players use carbon fibre and ceramic framed rackets that are specially designed to enlarge the sweet spot. Boat crews use aerodynamically sculpted boats and specialized oars designed to provide maximum possible propulsion. Skiers use ultra high-tech skis, some of which cost more than the average car, all to give them a competitive advantage.
If you're going to argue that a sport should be solely based on the abilities of the athlete, then we also need to address the technology used by the non-disabled participants as well.