Helping hand and a hug for fallen foe
TWO middle-distance runners provided the most heartwarming moment of the Games yesterday.
American Abbey D’Agnostino and New Zealander Nikki Hamblin were competing in a heat of the women’s 5,000m when D’Agnostino appeared to clip the Kiwi’s heel, causing them both to fall.
The two women knew their bid for a place in the final was out of their control, but rather than becoming frustrated, they helped each other to finish the race.
D’Agnostino, 24, immediately went to the aid of the fallen Hamblin and helped her back to her feet after the jarring fall.
But when it became obvious that D’Agnostino had injured her right ankle, it was Hamblin’s turn to help her continue. Hamblin, 28, helped her rival until D’Agnostino collapsed in agony and told the New Zealander to continue without her.
Ethiopian Almaz Ayana won the heat in 15mins 4secs, while Hamblin posted a time of 16mins 43secs. D’Agnostino, who has a personal best of 15mins 3secs, finished last in 17mins 10secs.
Hamblin waited at the finish line for D’Agnostino to cross so the pair could share a hug.
The American was then taken away in a wheelchair for an MRI scan, although she had a smile for the crowd.
Both women were subsequently promoted to Friday’s 5,000m final.