(http://www.london2012.com/news/articles/history-maker-pistorious-through.html)

04 August 201212:06

History-maker Pistorius through

South Africa's Oscar Pistorius safely advanced to the semi-finals of the men's 400m this morning during his historic Olympic appearance at the London 2012 Games.

Oscar Pistorius competes in the men's 400m heats. Oscar Pistorius of South Africa competes in the men's 400m heats, making history on Day 8.

Pistorius became the first double-amputee to compete in the Olympics and Paralympics when he ran in heat one.

The athlete known as 'Blade Runner' due to his prosthetic legs finished second in 45.44.

The 25-year-old had looked set to miss out on a place in the individual event after failing to run a second 'A' qualifying time to gain automatic selection.

I didn't know whether to cry, I had a mixture of emotions. It was the most amazing experience.

Oscar Pistorius

He fell agonisingly short at his final attempt in July, but was selected for his country's men's 4 x 400m Relay team - in which he won a silver medal at the World Championships last year - which meant he could be selected for the individual event.

Pistorius said: 'I was so nervous this morning. Thanks to everyone for showing their support. I didn't know whether to cry, I had a mixture of emotions. It was the most amazing experience.'