Niger's 'Issaka the Otter' on his Olympic pride

10 August 2012 Last updated at 13:18 ET Help

Only a few months ago Niger's Olympic rower Hamadou Djibo Issaka was a gardener in the country's capital, Niamey.

He was invited to learn how to row in Tunisia and took part in the London 2012 Games.

He became known for finishing last in his races, but he won the heart of the crowds.

BBC Africa's Helene Daouphars spoke the 35-year-old, who has been nicknamed "Issaka the Otter," about his experience.

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