Tamesue, a two time World Championship 400 metres hurdles bronze medal winner, has personally raised almost $80,000 (£50,000) and created the online project "Team Japan," which has taken in almost $300,000 ($188,000) in donations so far.

Tamesue, who comes from Hiroshima, spoke of his anguish at being unable to head home to help his compatriots.

"It breaks my heart that I cannot be there to help the people who are enduring hardship," he said.

"I am currently in San Diego but this devastating crisis has made me realise how much my heart is with the people of Japan.

"As athletes, we never give up, that is how we play our game.

"I have confidence that Japan will never give up, we have the strength to overcome this tragedy."

Tamesue is no stranger to online ventures, having created the Japense social network Athlete Society, and wants his fellow athletes to remain focused on their training despite the tragedy to demonstrate Japenese resilience.

Japanese triathlete Masaru Yumoto has also started fundraising online through JustGiving, which has raised $200,000 (£125,000) to help victims of the disaster since March 16.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]