Quote Originally Posted by Koz
Why would anyone do this?
1. Excellent PR move
2. Outstanding human interest story.

It was a media sensation when Alex Zanardi was permitted to finish the final 12 laps of the race in which had earlier lost his legs. It was the exact same car he drove that fateful day, albeit significantly modified so that he didn't have to use his feet / legs.

Paralympian Oscar Pistorius was also the darling of the media, and an inspiration to millions, for his achievements in the face of an overwhelming obstacle.