British trio Lee McConnell, Donna Fraser and Christine Ohurougu all qualified for the semi-finals of the women's 400m without any problems. McConnell and Fraser both came second in their heats, clocking the same time, 51.19 seconds.
A late surge by Ohurougu saw her clinch third place in her race in 50.50 seconds, the best time of any of the Britons and another personal best.
The semi-finals take place later on Saturday evening.
McConnell came home in second place, behind gold medal favourite Ana Guevara of Mexico, and said she was happy with how her race had gone.
"I am glad to get it out of the way. Ever since I got to Athens I have been desperate to get started," she said.
"I wanted to finish second behind Ana and I did that so I am happy."
Fraser, who came fourth in Sydney four years ago, revealed she had been suffering from injury in the build-up to the race, but thought she was through the worst of it.
 |  I still have to sort out the first 200m but I have got another crack at it |
"My good Achilles has gone bad and the bad one has gone good. The left one was the bad one and I think the right one must have got jealous," she said.
"It is a bit sore now but I can deal with it. I know enough about Achilles injuries after three years and it will be fine."
Ohurougu was also pleased with her display, although she had admitted being somewhat overawed by the experience.
"When I stepped out and saw the crowd I thought 'wow' and the last time that happened it was at Crystal Palace when I messed up, so I had to make sure I kept myself under control this time," she said.
"I hope I can make the final now. I still have to sort out the first 200m but I have got another crack at it - I am just relieved that is over."
MMIX
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