Heather Fell and Katy Livingston have become the first British modern pentathletes to reach the qualification standard for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The pair achieved the mark by finishing in the top eight places in the European Championships final in Latvia.
GB performance director Jan Bartu said: "Having two British athletes already qualified for the Games gives us a boost for the future."
The pair's achievement does not however guarantee them a place in the team.
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Up to two men and two women per country can qualify for the Games with 36 men and 36 women taking part in the event in China.
British team-mates Georgina Harland, who won a bronze medal at the 2004 Games, and Mhairi Spence had disappointing competitions in Riga.
But more chances to qualify will be available at other events and Olympic team manager Dominic Mahony told the Telegraph: "Heather pulled out something special when it mattered. It will be tough for Georgina and Mhairi to overhaul her in the selection stakes.
"They will have to win medals at the World Championships, the World Cup final or next year's European Championships.
"The selection policy states that results next year will have greater currency than those in 2007 but Heather's achievements here will keep everyone on their toes."
Britain's men failed to reach the standard with Nick Woodbridge finishing 24th overall and Sam Weale failing to complete the final because of an ankle injury.
Eight qualifying places were available at the event for both men and women because of the high standard of modern pentathletes in Europe.
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