LONDON, England — Danniel Thomas-Dodd came within arm’s length of a historic World Championship shot put medal, finishing fourth with a throw of 18.91 metres after holding the bronze position up to the final attempt.

Thomas-Dodd, who became the first Jamaican to make a shot put final, was extremely pleased with her performance that almost brought her a surprise podium finish.

“I am happy because I just went out there to have fun and that’s what I did and I came out with the result that I wanted. I was hoping to make the top eight, which I did, and I cannot ask for anything more,” said Thomas-Dodd.

The former Frome Technical athlete, who switched from the sprints to shot put because of injury, had a series of consistent throws and was fourth until the penultimate throw where she heaved the put to 18.91m on her fifth attempt and jumped into third spot.

Only two throwers were left. One was Anita Marton of Hungary, who was relegated to fourth. And she responded with her best effort on her final throw with a massive 19.49m and not only leapfrogged Thomas-Dodd, but snatched silver.

American Michelle Carter was third with 19.14, while gold went to favourite Lijiao Gong of China (19.94m). Thomas-Dodd would have had to break her national record to medal in what was a top-class field. She must have been happy after holding the bronze spot temporarily and had throws of 18.70m, 18.76m, 18.56m, 18.91m and 18.76m. She had fouled on her second attempt.

“I was happy. I know these ladies are more experienced than I am and for me to hold my own I am happy with the overall competition because these ladies have been on circuit and they know what’s it’s like to compete and that’s what they did,” said Thomas-Dodd.

“For me to finish where I did in such a tough field, I am really happy with my performance,” she emphasised.

Thomas-Dodd, who was fifth at the Pan American Games in 2015 and 12th at the Beijing World Championship later that year and in 2016 finished 14th at the Rio Olympic Games, now believes she can compete with the best.

The powerfully built thrower who has a master’s degree in sports and recreational management from Kent State University, thinks she can mix it up with the best.

“Definitely a confirmation, because it shows how consistent I am and [shows] the consistency that I had throughout the season. Moving forward I definitely have a lot more to offer,” said Thomas-Dodd.

Thomas-Dodd, who said she relished the cool conditions, said she restrained herself from celebrating after she jumped in the medal spot because she knew her competitors were top-class and could produce that special throw any moment.

“I knew the lady (Marton) that was behind me, and I have been following these ladies all season, I have seen what they have thrown in the Diamond League so I know they have a lot of far distances behind them.

“So I didn’t want to put myself in a position if I get too excited then I would be disappointed if I don’t. I knew she had the capability to go past me, which she did, so that’s why I am happy and didn’t show any emotion or excitement,” she pointed out.