New Zealand distance runner Nikki Hamblin (R) and American Abbey D'Agostino (L)

New Zealand 5,000m runner Nikki Hamblin and American Abbey D'Agostino have been awarded a special Olympic medal for sportsmanship.

They have been awarded the Pierre de Coubertin medal, which has only been awarded previously 17 times in Olympic history.

Hamblin tripped and fell during the semi-final race and brought D'Agostino crashing down behind her.

D'Agostino's injury becomes apparent to Hamblin

D'Agostino was quickly up on her feet, but then stopped and helped Hamblin up and encouraged her to run with her. But the American then realised she had injured her knee - in fact she had torn her anterior cruciate ligament - and urged Hamblin to race on. But the Kiwi refused to leave her side and they completed the race together.

Hamblin goes to the aid of a distraught D'Agostino

An International Olympic Committee statement read: "The D'Agostino and Hamblin story is one of humanity and sacrifice which has already captured the hearts of people across the globe."

Hamblin said: "Winning this award is overwhelming. I am proud that what we did and truly believe that you can be both a competitor and kind and responsive at the same time.

D'Agostino and Hamblin embrace after crossing the line

"Everyone comes here to compete but there are a lot of people who don't achieve that and the journey is really important too.

"That was one of those journeys and it has gone on to be one of the most important moments of my life."