Hurdler falls, dives, slides into semi-final

Well this is one way to finsh a race and qualify for an Olympic quarter-final.

Brazil’s hometown hero Joao Vitor de Oliveira looked to be struggling in his heat of the 110m hurdles.

Joao Vitor de Oliveira dives over the line. Pic: Channel 7

As he neared the finish line he lost his balance and ended up taking a diving lip, arms outstretched, crashing over the line and sliding for metres on the damp track.

It looked ungainly, it looked painful but it worked as the Brazilian finished fourth and moved into the semi-finals.

That is pure commitment.

In pain but into the semi-final. Pic: Getty

Apparently it is not the first time it has happened, BBC are reporting.

"I always do that, it's no accident. I broke my ribs doing it in China,” he said.

"People tell me not to do it, but it comes from the heart. I put myself first."

In the following heat there was heartbreak for France's Wilhem Belocian who was disqualified for this false start.

Later on tonight (AEST) we will get our first look at our Aussie hurdling hope, Michelle Jenneke.

She is talking down her chances but her lead up form has been impressive.