Pearson was in superb form in Athens, winning three golds

The triple Paralympic gold medallist was a contender for World Sportsman of the Year with a Disability at the awards ceremony in Estoril, Portugal.

But he missed out to Canada's Chantal Peticlerc, winner of five wheelchair gold medals in Athens last year.

Pearson was nominated for the Laureus awards in 2001, when he lost out to Australian sailor Vinny Lauwers.

Pearson has picked up a host of awards since his Paralympic success, including the BBC Midlands Sports Personality of the Year.

In Athens, he retained his individual Grade I dressage and freestyle titles as well as helping Britain to victory in the team event.