Ernst Van Dyk
Ernst was born with a congenital birth defect that involved both legs and his right arm. With corrective surgery, Ernst was able to be fit with prosthetic legs to enable him to be more mobile. He discovered wheelchair racing and was named South African Junior Sportsman of the Year in ‘89, ‘90 and ‘91. He currently holds more first place finishes in wheelchair sport than any other athlete.
Birthdate: April 4, 1973
Location: Ceres, Western Cape Province, South Africa
Nationality: South African
Languages: Fluent in Afrikaans and English
Paralympic History: 1992 Barcelona, 1996 Atlanta, 2000 Sydney
World Records: 400m, 800m, and 10k roadrace
Prosthetic Components: Hanger ComfortFlex™ Socket, ALPS Easy Liners, Springlite LuXonMax DP Feet
Occupation: Operations Manager, University of Stellenbosch Gymnasium
Goal: To become the best wheelchair track and road racer in the world.
Hobbies: Tropical fish, and my two Siberian Huskies!