STADE DE FRANCE – Tears in the mixed zone from both GB pole vaulters Holly Bradshaw and Molly Caudery.
Caudery said: “I am in a little bit of shock. I am so disappointed and sorry to everyone back at home and who have been supporting me.
“I don’t have any excuse, I felt great, I love a big crowd, I didn’t feel overly nervous, I am in the best shape I can be. I don’t have a reason right now for what just happened.”
On starting at 4m55, rather than the lower 4m40, which others began at, Caudery added: “4m55 is a height I jump at day in, day out. There was not a doubt in my mind that I wasn’t going to clear it. Some may claim that it was a bit high, but that definitely wasn’t my or my coach’s opinion. When I have been 4m80 or 4m90 all year round, 4m55 shouldn’t be a problem.
“When I took that third attempt, I was just in disbelief.”
Bradshaw, who is in mourning for her father who passed away last year, said: “It wasn’t the end that I wanted, I am well worth 4m55, but sport is cruel and I fell on the wrong side of it today.
“I have had an awful year and have really struggled to deal with my dad passing away. Just to make it here, I think he would be proud. I have just been grieving a lot this year and there have been a lot of low points, so I am just proud of myself just to be here.
“This might be my last one, I have a lot of comps booked, but this was the big one.”