Cruel blow for Jemma as she misses out on Olympic 800m final….

Supporters said they were proud of her achievements after she finished in fifth place in the semi-final in Paris, just missing out on the final.

Ranked in the world’s top three, there were high expectations for Jemma, who had been tipped for a medal after finishing fourth at the Tokyo Olympics.

She was in a good position going in to the last 150m, but failed to find a kick and finished out of the qualifying places.

In a brief post race interview with the BBC, the devastated runner said: “Not good but going to go away and speak to my coach and get myself together.”.

“I’m in the best shape of my life and I made some mistakes and that’s what happens. I just need to go away and think about it.”

On the Facebook group Beith People, one fan said: “Unlucky Jemma. So close and a great time. Slight tweak tactically and you’d have had it.

“Brave, brace race execution though. You went for it and left it all out there. Feel for you.”

Another added: “Disappointed for you Jemma Reekie but you gave it your all and we couldn’t have asked any more from you.

“Be very proud of what you’ve achieved to date; there’s more to come and we’ll all be rooting for you.”