Preston-born Holly Bradshaw is the first British athlete to win a pole vault medal at an Olympic Games.
But when she came sixth at the World Championships in London 2017, a combination of personal doubts and social media criticism left her thinking about walking away.
But it was delight rather than disappointment for Bradshaw with a career best performance to make the podium in the Tokyo Olympics.
Bradshaw - who for years trained at Wigan's Robin Park - says it was self-belief that kept her going.
Bradshaw said: “This is what I’ve worked for my whole career.
“I don’t know what emotion I’m feeling – relief, pure enjoyment, excited, proud of myself for sticking with it. I knew I could get there one day."
Pictures: Getty Images
. Joy in victory
Chorley's Bronze medal winner Holly Bradshaw of Team Great Britain celebrates after the Women's Pole Vault Final at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games
. Going clear
The effort in Holly Bradshaw's face is clear to see as she competes for a medal in the pole vault
. Victory lap
Bronze medallist Britain's Holly Bradshaw and gold medallist USA's Katie Nageotte (right) celebrate
1. Going clear
The effort in Holly Bradshaw's face is clear to see as she competes for a medal in the pole vault
2. Victory lap
Bronze medallist Britain's Holly Bradshaw and gold medallist USA's Katie Nageotte (right) celebrate
4. Rainy days
The rain came down in Tokyo as Holly Bradshaw takes part in the qualification stages