London, August 29 : Paralympic champion, Oscar Pistorius has made history after qualifying for the 400 metres semi finals at the World Athletic championships in Daegu, South Korea. South African Pistorius, who is better known as `blade runner', has become first amputee athlete to compete alongside able-bodied rivals. He finished third with a timing of 45.39 seconds, The Daily Mail reports. Earlier, defending champion LaShawn Merritt of the U. S. had stamped his authority on the event with the fastest time of the year of 44.35 to win his heat in impressive style. Debate had raged this week over whether Pistorius should be allowed to compete, with analysts arguing that his carbon fibre blades give him an advantage. Pistorius overcame huge legal and performance obstacles just to be allowed to race in Daegu on his prosthetic legs. "It was a great opportunity for me to have a chance to run, this is a goal I''ve had for many, many years," Pistorius was quoted, as saying. "I really don''t feel like a pioneer but I''m very honoured to be in the position I am in ... I hope to write a few more chapters, I am still young," he added. (ANI)