Colchester's Sarah Claxton admitted having mixed feelings after her Olympic dream came to an end in Athens.
The 24-year-old failed to qualify for the 100 metre hurdles semi-finals after finishing her heat in sixth spot, clocking 13.14 seconds.
To guarantee progress she needed to end up in the top two, or hope she was one of five lucky 'losers' with a good enough time.
Despite her disappointment, she told the Evening Gazette: "It was a great experience, being part of something so special.
"I didn't make a very good start in my heat and that was what cost me in the end.
"But I gave it my best shot and loved every minute.
"I'll never forget the atmosphere. It was a real thrill and it meant the world having my family out here to support me."
Claxton, a life member of Colchester and Tendring Athletic Club, finished sixth out of eight in her heat yesterday, with the top two being America's Joanna Hawks (12.71s) and Russia's Natalya Kresova (12.90s).
Published Monday August 23, 2004
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