• London Olympics 2012

Murray boosts GB medal haul in final Olympic event

Sam Murray crosses the line to win silver in the women's modern pentathlon © PA Photos

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Samantha Murray capped a remarkable Olympics for Great Britain as she won silver in the modern pentathlon to take Team GB's final medal haul to 65 at London 2012.

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Britain has a strong tradition in the women's modern pentathlon, having never failed to win a medal in the event since its debut at Sydney 2000, and Murray continued that record, crossing the line in second place at Greenwich Park.

Beginning the final discipline - the combined running and shooting events - in fourth place, Murray overhauled Brazil's Yane Marques and France's Amelie Caze to claim silver behind Laura Asadauskaite of Lithuania.

Having won 18 of her 35 fencing bouts, Murray moved into the medals after completing the 200m freestyle swim in a time of 2:08.20. She slipped to fourth after picking up 60 penalty points during the riding event, but her superior running, combined with composure in the shooting range, saw her claim silver.

"I had a lot to make up on the run, I needed that," Murray said. "I've made a few mistakes today which set me back but I came through in the end. I'm just so pleased, my legs kept running for me. Up the hills was so steep and I just kept working hard."

Murray's team-mate and reigning world champion Mhairi Spence finished in 21st place after failing to recover from a tough showjumping round.

It was fitting that the last medal of the London Games was won by Brazilian Marques, ahead of the closing ceremony, when London will formally hand over to the next host city, Rio de Janeiro.

In winning the final event of London 2012, Murray's silver medal secured Team GB's 65th medal of the Games as they finished third in the medal table behind USA and China.

Much was expected of the British team after an impressive Games in Beijing four years ago, but they once again surpassed expectations to end the event with 29 gold medals, 17 silver and 19 bronze.

Women's Modern Pentathlon

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