Fourth for Thomas-Dodd!

LONDON, England:

Despite barely missing out on a medal in the women's shot put, Jamaica's Danniel Thomas-Dodd said she is leaving the World Championships in London fully satisfied with her history-making efforts.

The 24 year-old, the first Jamaican woman to qualify directly to the final of the event, came close to a podium finish with a strong series that saw a best distance of 18.91m, which left her with a fourth-place finish.

Thomas-Dodd actually entered the final round of throws in third position but lost that spot after Hungarian Anita Marton, produced a big 19.49m to leapfrog her and American bronze medallist Michelle Carter, 19.14m, moving into second place. The event was won by Lijiao Gong of China with 19.94m.

The former Frome Technical sprinter-turned-thrower said she is pleased with her performance and is now hoping to advance her development.

Moving forward

"I was happy. Honestly, I knew these ladies were more experienced than I am and I was happy that I was able to hold my own against them. These ladies have been on the circuit, they have been competing at this level and they know what's it like to do so.

"For me to finish the way I did against such a tough field, I am really happy with my performance," Thomas-Dodd told The Gleaner, who added that her showing is a confirmation of her abilities following her national record 19.15m mark posted in early June.

"It's definitely a confirmation. I talk about consistency and for me it shows how consistent I am, the consistency I have throughout the season and, moving forward, I definitely have a lot more to offer," she added.

Despite coming close to a medal, Thomas-Dodd, who recently completed her Masters Degree in Sports and Recreation Management at Kent University in Ohio, said there is no disappointment on her part.

"Honestly, I would like to have been in the medals but I can't be too greedy, it's only my second World Championships, I am still young, a lot of these ladies are going out and we represent the next generation of throwers so there is more for me to offer. I am not disappointed, I am right where I want to be," said Thomas-Dodd.