Former Loughborough College student Matt Hudson-Smith said he can’t wait to race in today’s Olympic 400m final.
The 21 year old finished second in his semi-final in 44.48 seconds after starting slowly and picking up his pace on the home straight.
Hudson-Smith said afterwards that he was disappointed with his race and had thought he had come in fourth so was “ecstatic” to have made the Olympic final.
"That was crazy!" he told the BBC afterwards. "I messed up the transition at the top bend but I have no idea what just happened!
"It was improvisation, when I felt them go past me I felt I had another gear, I started kicking and got closer and closer.
"It wasn't the best of runs so when I saw the time and that I made it I was so happy.
"The next race is the final. I still have a lot to work on but I'm really excited."
Hudson-Smith added: “I know there is a lot more in me if I execute properly.
“If you train with me you know I am a speed runner but everyone thinks I’m an endurance runner. I know when I put it right, I’m not going to be last off the bend, I’m going to be around the top guys.
“When it comes to the straight, I’m probably one of the strongest in the 400m.
“I’m putting the jigsaw together and it’s slowly coming together now. I’m so excited for the final and I can’t wait.”