The 24-year-old, who runs on carbon fibre prosthetic blades in place of his lower legs, ran the first leg today for the South African team, which qualified for the 400-metre relay final in 2min 59.21sec, bettering their previous national mark.

"I'm extremely proud," said Pistorius, who had been told by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) that he could only run a first leg - after which the first handover is staggered - to "avoid danger to other athletes".

The South African quartet came in behind the United States and Jamaica in what was the first occasion in the history of these championships that three teams have run faster than three minutes in a heat.

With numerous cameramen positioned alongside the spot, Pistorius kept his discipline well to deliver the baton smoothly to teammate Ofentse Mogawane, before Willem de Beer and Shane Victor brought South Africa home.

"It is unbelievable to be one of four names on a list to run a national record," Pistorius added.

"I'm extremely proud.

"To make the final makes me even more happy."

Britain, Germany, Belgium, Russia and Kenya also qualified for Friday's final here.

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