The 25-year-old (pictured top, in green and yellow) made history this week as he became the first double-leg amputee to compete in athletics at the Olympics and produced a superb performance in his heat to get through to the semi-final.

However, despite a brave effort, Pistorius crossed the line in last place in 46.54sec with 19-year-old James, from Grenada, taking victory in 44.59.

Following the win, James walked over to Pistorius and swapped his bib name and number with the South African (pictured below) before raising it above his head in celebration.

"Oscar is a very special guy and I was honoured to be out here on the track with him," said James, who is set to become one of the next big stars in the sport.

"He's an inspiration to all of us.

"It takes a lot of courage and confidence to do what he has done today.

"He's a down to earth guy and a great individual, and I thought [swapping bibs] was a nice gesture."


Pistorius was equally full of praise for James: "As soon as we crossed the line we're friends.

"It was very kind of him.

"It's what the Olympics is all about.

Pistorius also said he was upbeat despite the loss: "The whole experience was mind-blowing.

"My aim was to make the semi-final.

"It's a dream come true.

"Thanks to everyone for their support."

The result was identical to last year when Pistorius became the first amputee athlete to compete at the able-bodied World Athletics Championships in Daegu and finished last in his semi-final.

He will now turn his attention to the Olympic 4x400m relay where he will be hopeful of a medal after running as part of the South African squad that secured silver in Daegu.

After that, Pistorius will take a short break before returning to the Paralympics where he will be looking to defend his titles in the T44 100m, 200m and 400m.

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