Ireland's Ciara Mageean has claimed that she is down but not out after her Paris Olympics campaign ended due to an injury this week.
Because of an ongoing Achilles injury, the Down native had to bow out of her 1500-metre heats. Although the withdrawal was necessary and heartbreaking, the reigning European 1500m champion did everything she could to be fit, but it just wasn't to be.
“I am simply heartbroken,” Mageean wrote on Instagram this week. “I gave everything I could to be on that start line today, but unfortunately, my body said no. I want to thank all those who worked so hard to help me—the medical staff and support staff—thank you.
“To two people who have been my rocks this summer, Thomas Moran and Jip Vastenburg, no words come close to thanking you for everything you have done for me," she added.
“To everyone who has shared their support, who has messaged, travelled, put up banners, and cheered along the way, thank you. I am so sorry I couldn’t give you more joyful days out there this summer. I want to especially thank my hometown of Portaferry, where I know the place is decked to the nines. Thank you for always being my special place, on the good days and the bad.
“I am very grateful for my sponsors, who have reached out and offered their support at this turbulent time."
Mageean ended the Instagram post by wishing the rest of the Irish team good luck in their events. The Portaferry woman also claimed that this isn't the end for her.
“To the rest of the Irish team, good luck. I’ll be cheering you on every step of the way.”
“For now, I will spend some time with my family. My Olympics are gone, but I am not out. I will come back stronger and with even more fire in my belly.”
