Former F1 star Alex Zanardi, who lost both his legs in a Champ Car crash in 2001, has won a gold medal at the Paralympics.

The Italian, who was critically injured in a freak accident at the EuroSpeedway Lausitz in 2001, beat Germany's Nobert Mosandl by more than 27 seconds in the H4 handcycling time trial at Brands Hatch.

Since the accident in 2001, Zanardi has become an example to us all; whilst others might have withdrawn, licked their wounds and felt sorry for themselves, the Italian, who raced in F1 with Jordan, Minardi, Lotus and Williams in addition to winning two Champ Car titles, unbelievably returned to racing enjoying five seasons in the WTCC and winning events in all but one season.

Ironically, the 45-year-old has won at the Brands Hatch twice before, once in F3000 back in 1991 and again as part of the Italian=Spanish WTCC squad.

He took up handcycling in 2007, with the stated aim of representing Italy at this summer's Paralympics, famously winning Marathons in Venice, Rome and New York along the way.

"This is a great accomplishment, one of the greatest of my life," Zanardi told reporters following today's success. "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," he continued. "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 will also be participating in the Road Race on the 7th and the Team Relay on the 8th, both events taking place at Brands Hatch.

A true legend, Alex we salute you, we really do.