Zanardi wins paralympic gold in time trial

Former Formula One and CART driver Alessandro Zanardi has today won gold at the paralympics in London. The 45-year-old Italian competed in the H4 handcycling time trial and beat Germany's Nobert Mosandl by more than 27 seconds around the Brands Hatch circuit.

Zanardi saw both his legs amputated after a near deadly crash at the Lausitzring in 2001, and has since competed in WTCC with an adapted BMW car, and later concentrated on competition with the handbike.

"This is a great accomplishment, one of the greatest of my life," Zanardi said of his victory.

"I worked very hard to get here. It was great to live such an experience at 45. This moment also brings a little bit of sadness for an adventure the last two years.

"When you are 20, you appreciate medals. When you are 40, you appreciate what you do every day.

"I enjoyed every day of training. I've had a magical adventure and this is a fantastic conclusion."

Alex Zanardi will continue to compete at London as on September 7th he competes in the road race and one day later in the team relay.