Nikki Hamblin of New Zealand stops running during the women's 5000m race to help fellow competitor Abbey D'Agostino of the USA. Photo: Reuters
Hamblin, competing in the women's 5000m heats, tripped on the inside curb of the track with four laps to go, bringing her US competitor Abbey D'Agostino down to the ground with her.
Both athletes, clearly hurt and emotional, proceeded to take time to help each other to their feet to continue on with the race.
Hamblin and D'Agostino may have finished as the last two competitors in the field, but their embrace and shared tears at the finish line helped create a true illustration of the Olympic competitive spirit to the world.
D'Agostino was taken away in a wheelchair.
Both Hamblin and fellow Kiwi Lucy Oliver competed in the 5000m hats, with each failing to progress to the event's final.
Those watching the poignant moment were quick to take to social media to praise the runners.
Nick Zaccardi tweeted: "What sportsmanship from Abbey D'Agostino and New Zealand's Nikki Hamblin." While Big Sport said on Twitter it was: "What the Olympics are all about!"
