Sculptor Martin Linson, from St Charles, Missouri, became the second American artist in the past three Olympiads to win the International Olympic Committee (IOC) art competition.

His creation, called Omnipotent Triumph, features a Paralympic athlete crossing the finish line in his wheelchair with his arms uplifted in a triumphant V for victory pose.

It was selected from the sculpture category which drew entries from 62 nations and was judged at the IOC Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland.

The 36-year-old said that Paralympians have always fascinated him and he wanted to show them at a point of perfection – finishing and winning the race.

"I'm shocked – I never thought I would win whatsoever," said Linson, who has begun making three more bronzes of other Paralympians.

"I just wanted to recognize these athletes because I felt their amazing accomplishments should come more to light."

Linson's work will be highlighted at the 2012 Olympic Games in London before going on permanent display at the Olympic Museum along with the other winners.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]