South African swimmer Natalie du Toit picked up the prestigious Laureus World Sportperson of the Year with a Disability Award, in what was a star studded ceremony in Abu Dhabi hosted by American actor Kevin Spacey.

The swimmer who is only one of five athletes to of competed in both the Olympics and Paralympics has won 10 gold medals at the Paralympics is an icon who is breaking down the barriers between disabled and able bodied sports.

President of the South African Sports Federation & Olympic Committee (SASCOC) Gideon Sam announced heartily on their website the he wished to congratulate the sports phenomenon on her triumph. He went onto say that ‘she is a true inspiration to each and every athlete in their country and the world, and we hoping that she can build on this prestigious award as they look ahead to 2012 Olympics and Paralympics in London.