Sarah Attar hails "incredible experience"

Sarah Attar has expressed her delight at becoming the first female athlete to represent Saudi Arabia in a track and field event at the Olympics.

Sporting a white hood, long-sleeved green top and black leggings, the 19-year-old finished one of the 800m heats earlier today in 2:44.95, which was some 44 seconds behind eventual race winner Janeth Busienei.

Nevertheless, the student has insisted that she was just pleased to make history.

"It is the hugest honour to be here to represent the women of Saudi Arabia," said Attar.

"It is a historic moment. I hope it will make a difference. It is a huge step forward. It's a really incredible experience."

Attar was born and raised in the United States.