The 24-year-old double-leg amputee blade runner, whose medal collection includes four Paralympic golds, will headline the country's most significant elite multi-sport disability event from March 26-30.

Several other members of the South African team that competed at the 2011 International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Athletics World Championships in Christchurch in January will be present, with a total of 800 athletes competing for glory in eight different sports.

Pistorius returned from the World Championships in New Zealand somewhat disappointed as despite claiming three of the South Africa's nine gold medals in the 200m, 400m and the relay, he was narrowly pipped to gold by 0.03 seconds in the 100m T44 final by American rival Jerome Singleton.

It was his first loss in a major championship since the 2004 Paralympics.

"I hate losing and I don't think I'll ever get used to it, but it's good for the sport because it adds more of a competitive edge," said Pistorius.

"I haven't focused a lot on the 100m for the last couple of years but it's the flagship event for sprinters at global championships and it's an event in which I still have goals that I'd like to achieve.


"Having said that, Jerome is a brilliant athlete and he deserved the win.

"But now it's more important than ever to stick to the programme.

"I can't let my preparation get side-tracked.

"I must stay focused."

Pistorius also hopes to secure the qualifying time to compete in the able-bodied World Athletics Championships in Daegu in his specialist event, the 400m.

"I have my sights set on four golds," he said.

"My main goal in 2011 is to reach the qualifying standard for the able-bodied World Athletics Championships in Daegu and the Nedbank National Championships for Physically Disabled is the perfect time trial.

"There is a year-and-a-half to go to the London Games and championships are very important to my preparation process.

"I need to put my head down and push for it.

"This will be the perfect stepping stone.

"I'm still very hungry and I'm looking forward to the challenge in Rustenburg."

The Nedbank National Championships for the Physically Disabled feature athletics, judo, cycling, goal ball, boccia, seven-a-side football and power lifting.

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