National treasure Peter Bol has run the much anticipated 800m final at the Tokyo Olympics, with Aussie’s sitting at the edge of their seats, nerves frayed and butts clench. Alas, Bol didn’t get win the gold he was hoping for – he won our love and pride instead.

It was a run for the ages – Peter Bol took the lead as the first Aussie runner to make it to the 800m final *53* years.

He started off really strong, leading for the first half of the race – but when it came to the final bend, the pressure was too much. He was over taken by Kenyan Kipkurui Korir, who won in 1.45.06 minutes. Bol finished a maddening 0.53 of a second outside of a bronze medal.

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Peter Bol's Iconic Run To Win Gold In The 800m Final Is Airing *Tonight* & I'm So Fkn Tense

“I put myself in every chance, I think the only thing I regret is the last 100, tightening up a little bit. Other than that, we came here to win and that’s what I did. I tried to win it and came short, but we’re in the Olympic final and there’s more to come,” he told Channel 7.

“I’d be lying if I said I’m pretty happy right now. The goal was to win. So I still have to reflect on that. At the same time, I think today, I didn’t know if I was going to win but I knew one thing for certain, that the whole of Australia was watching. That carried me on. I loved that part about it.

“I’m grateful to Australia, I’m thankful to everyone in Australia, we’re human at the end of the day. We inspired the whole nation. That’s the goal.”

Bol’s sweet words in his post-run interview have Aussie’s tearing up because this isn’t just about his run – it’s about hope and representation, too. You’re right Bol, Australia was watching, and we’re all so bloody proud of you!!!!!

Peter Bol didn’t win a medal tonight, and maybe that’s sad, but he won the heart of a nation instead. And when he makes it to France in three years, we’ll all be there to cheer him on.

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