Iran's tallest man, sitting volleyball player Morteza Mehrzadselakjani stands with teammates before a preliminary match against Ukraine Wednesday.
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At eight feet one inch, Mehrzad is head and shoulders above his teammates and fellow Rio 2016 Paralympians.
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Suffering from a rare condition caused by excess growth hormone, Mehrzad's right leg is six inches shorter than the left, making it difficult for him to walk.
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But on the sitting volleyball court, Mehrzad's height gives him a distinct advantage.
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Sitting down, his outstretched arms reach more than six feet from the ground.
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Having only joined the national team in March, Mehrzad is being trained "step by step", Iranian coach Hadi Rezaeigarkani told Rio2016.com.
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Within two years time, Rezaeigarkani hopes he can "be the best."
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The top-ranked Iranian sitting volleyball team has won five golds and two silvers in its seven Paralympic appearances.
