50 stunning Olympic moments: Derek Redmond – in pictures

Twelve months before the 1992 Olympic Games, Derek Redmond was part of the triumphant British men's 4x400m relay team at the World Championships in Tokyo. Hopes were high that one of the quartet could secure an individual medal at the Games in Barcelona, and as the reigning British record holder Redmond was among the favourites. Injuries afflicted the 26-year-old in the run-up to the Games, but he regained his form and ran the fastest qualifying time in the first round then won his quarter-final too Photograph: Tim Ockenden/PA

But after making a strong start in the semi-final, Redmond crumpled to the floor on the back straight – his right hamstring having suddenly popped Photograph: Ross Kinnaird/Empics

Despite the pain, Redmond dragged himself to his feet, waved the stretcher bearers away and attempted to hobble to the line
Photograph: Ross Kinnaird/Empics

An unknown figure soon appeared on the track behind him … it was Redmond's father Jim, who had raced from the stands past the security guards to help his stricken son Photograph: S&G/Empics

Derek was overcome with emotion as he crossed the line to a standing ovation. He was ultimately disqualified for having received assistance during his lap, yet, like Dorando Pietri at the London Olympics of 1908, his heroic perseverance has since been heralded as the embodiment of the Olympic spirit
Photograph: P Pavani/AFP