As the Olympics now draws to a close Great Britain can add one more medal to its staggering total thanks to Samantha Murray in the modern pentathlon, held today at Greenwich Park.
22 year old Murray began the final of five events in fourth place, but thanks to a strong run/shoot she was able to move herself up into the silver position.
When Murray was asked how it felt to be called the silver medallist, she responded;
“It sounded incredible. I can’t put it into words right now. It’s surreal. No way was I going to let a medal get away. I was running for a medal - I was running for silver. I will never forget this day. I’m so proud to be British.”
This continues Great Britain women’s excellent track record in modern pentathlon, having won a medal at every Olympics since it was introduced in Sydney 2000.
Lithuanian athlete Laura Asadauskaite took the Olympic crown, with Yane Marques of Brazil taking Bronze.
Murray was in fine form throughout the competition, and began well by winning 18 of her 35 one-minute fencing bouts, before a strong performance in the pool saw her finish her 200m freestyle heat just outside the Olympic record in a time of two minutes 8.20 seconds
“I had a lot to make up on the run, I needed that,” said Murray. “I’ve made a few mistakes today which set me back but I came through in the end. I’m just so pleased, my legs kept running for me. Up the hills was so steep and I just kept working hard.
“Four years ago I was doing my A-levels at school, I’d started pentathlon but I was by no means performing on an international level,” she said.
“Since then I’ve come through the ranks, won some medals along the way and made it to the Olympic Games.”
“Honestly, if you have a goal - if there’s anything you want to achieve in life - don’t let anybody get in your way. If I can do it then you can do it. Anyone can do what they want to do,” she added.
Mhari Spence, also on Team GB, finished in 21st position after a disappointing final round.
Sportsister
The Women’s Sports Magazine
