Women's 400m final - in pictures

A nation holds its breath as Cathy Freeman prepares for the women's 400m final

Freeman, in a full body suit, ready to make history

Freeman leads the field home, fulfilling the dreams of Australia

Freeeman takes gold and Great Britain's Katharine Merry takes bronze

Huge relief, the initial emotion for Freeman

Delight for Merry after running a personal best of 49.72secs to take bronze

Relief turns to joy as Freeman takes her lap of honour

Cathy Freeman receives her gold medal, and with it status of Australian national hero