Snowden’s middle distance climb ends at the semi-final stage

The fastest women’s 1500m semi-final in Olympic history proved to be too fast for Katie Snowden.

The 27-year-old’s was ninth in her race, just outside her new best.

She had qualified from her 1500m heat at the Tokyo Olympics with a personal best 4mins 2.77 secs and Herne Hill Harriers club women’s record.

She said afterwards on Instagram: “Whilst disappointed not to make the final, I’m happy with what I’ve achieved: competed in the fastest 1500m semi-final in Olympic history, a new PB under my belt.

“There’s some incredibly quick times being run at the moment which makes it harder to put into perspective your own performance but I’m encouraged by my progress in a short space of time and excited for what’s to come with some more consistency.”