RIO DE JANEIRO — American Abbey D'Agostino, who made headlines for helping her competitor finish a race after a fall during the Olympic Games, has been given a special award in Rio de Janeiro.
The "Fair Play Award" was given to D'Agostino for her "act of selflessness and exemplary sportsmanship."
New Zealand runner Nikki Hamblin tripped and fell to the ground during the 5,000-meter race, accidentally bringing D'Agostino down behind her with around 2,000 meter to go. The 24-year-old D'Agostino was quick to get up again, yet instead of carrying on with her race she stopped to help the stricken Hamblin to her feet, encouraging her to join her in attempting to finish the race. However, during her tumble, D'Agostino suffered an ankle injury, slowing the runner down, but Hamblin sportingly hung back to in return offer her encouragements. The two women went on to complete the race together.
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The Olympic committee says the pair's story is "one of humanity and sacrifice which has already captured the hearts of people across the globe."
Speaking of this recognition after the ceremony, Hamblin said: "I think it's very special for both Abbey and myself. I don't think either of us woke up and thought that that was going to be our day, or our race, or our Olympic Games. Both of us are strong competitors and we wanted to go out there and do our best on the track."
She added: "I was on the ground for too long to get back up and catch on to the pack. So then it becomes about finishing the race, and finishing the race well. I am so grateful to Abbey for picking me up, and I think many people would have returned the favor. […] Once you are on the track, there is a mutual understanding of what it takes to get there."
Cox Media Group
