Eyes on the prize: Blindness is no obstacle for Connor McLeod. Pictures: Mike Sea.
HE can rock climb, abseil, do extreme caving, swim like a fish, run at state level and is good at school — is there anything Connor McLeod can't do?
What's remarkable about the Oakhurst youngster is that he's severely blind, born with Leber's congenital amaurosis.
The Quakers Hill Public School year 5 student competed at the state PSSA Athletics Carnival last week as T11 athlete, classified as totally blind, and ran with the assistance of a guide.
Connor, 11, competed in the 11-12 years boys' 800 metre event for T11 and T35 (cerebral palsy) athletes, finishing eighth overall.
"I was a bit nervous," Connor told the Star. "But I was a little disappointed.
"My goal is to make it to nationals next year."
Long-distance running is second nature to Connor, who qualified for the district cross-country titles earlier this year.
Department of Education regulations almost stopped him from taking part but had a change of heart after a public campaign through the Let Connor Run Facebook page.
The adjusted rules mean T11 and T35 athletes can compete at district, regional and state competitions if they meet qualifying standards.
Connor got his chance to run at the district titles, where he missed out going to regionals by four seconds.
"Nothing can stop him from having a go," proud mum Ally Lancaster said.
"The rule changes weren't just for Connor, all kids with a disability can compete now.
"There was one girl in the same class as Connor who couldn't compete last year.
"She won gold at state this year."
Connor wrote to prime minister John Howard when he was five, telling him he wanted his job.
Mr Howard replied, telling Connor he could be whatever he wanted to be if he worked hard.
Ms Lancaster believes her son is an inspiration to others.
"As long as they work hard, all children with a disability should have every opportunity to do whatever they choose, so long as it's safe," she said.