London - South African Oscar Pistorius, who made history as the first amputee to participate in a track event at the Olympic Games, came last in his 400m semifinal in London on Sunday evening.
Pistorius finished in 46.54 seconds - more than a second slower than his qualifying time on Saturday - but was overwhelmed by his Olympic experience and by the support he had received.
“This whole experience for me is something I've been struggling to find words to describe,” he said as he was mobbed by journalists after his race.
“Just being in the starting blocks, hearing the crowd and, once again, getting cramps in my cheeks - it's just been an unbelievable experience.
“I didn't come out here to prove a point, I came out here to do the best that I possibly can.”
His semifinal was won by Grenada's Kirani James, last year's world champion, in 44.59.
Pistorius bowed out, waving to the crowd in gratitude for their support.
The 25-year-old will take part in the men's 4X400m relay heats on Thursday. - Sapa