•What developed your interest in writing an autobiography so early in your career? What do you want to convey through your book?

• My autobiography was released a year and a half back, titled Dream Runner in Italy and it’s now awaiting its English version with a slightly different title. When I was approached with the idea, even I asked if I’m not too young to write a book. Then I decided to tell my story of growing up with disability. I wanted to recall my struggles so that it can be an inspiration and help in building morale. My book is a complete book, it is aimed at everyone.

•You are an icon for the disabled the world over. Do you think you would have achieved the same recognition if you were able-bodied?

• I wouldn’t have been the same if I was a normal person. I think being disabled has taught me a lot. How I have managed to fight my way through has got me a great deal of recognition and respect the world over. If God ever comes up to me and gives me back my legs, I wouldn’t accept that now. I am happy to stay as I am because being disabled has helped me strive harder, achieve something and improved my character, something I am not sure would have happened if I was a normal, healthy guy.

•You played a bit of cricket during your early school years...

• I love cricket. I have been watching a few IPL games and have followed the South African national team’s progress. I remember wearing pads going in to bat, and I would say I wouldn’t be adjudged leg before wicket, so I am a safe batsman.

•Have you thought of running in India?

• I have heard a lot about India. I know the country has an amazing history. My girlfriend was just recently in India for a friend’s wedding and she showed me the photographs. It was amazing, the festivities, the culture, the dresses. Unfortunately, I haven’t ever been there but I would love to come there and race. I hope some day your association invites me to race in India.

•Do you remember all the nicknames people call you by?

• I remember a couple. Blade Runner is one of them, some call me the fastest man with no legs. In America, people call me Seabiscuit, after that racing horse famous for inauspicious starts and then winning. That name came after I had so many false starts in my first big race. I didn’t take off long after everyone sped off the blocks, but I did win that race. It’s interesting how different people in different countries call me by different names. Some call me the Usain Bolt of the disabled. That is an honour.

•You have always strived to be able to compete with able-bodied athletes in big competitions. Will competing with Bolt be the ultimate culmination of your efforts?

• Bolt is a brilliant athlete, and I watched him with awe during the Beijing Olympics last year. It’s a big desire to be competing with him in a flat race. Let’s put it this way — I would be running alongside him, not against him. If I can be half as good as he is, I would have accomplished something in life.

•What’s next in line for you?

• I am leaving for Europe next week. There are some competitions lined up, and I hope to turn out some good performances.