Stewart McSweyn's Olympic campaign has started with a bang, with the King Island hero crossing the line in the 1500m in third.
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It was a tough start for the 26-year-old who was caught in heavy traffic on the opening stretch of the race but wasted no time finding his best spot on the track - at the lead.
McSweyn was quick to set the pace in the third heat, streaking out to a commanding lead at the 800m mark.
However, a challenge from Great Britain's Jake Heyward pushed McSweyn out of the top position, finishing the race in a 3:36:39.
The time will see McSweyn qualify for Thursday's semi final in 10th.
McSweyn wasn't the only Aussie to race in the 1500m heats, with Oliver Hoare qualifying third for the semi finals with a 3:36:09 - the fastest time for an Australian at the Olympics since 1960.