Perri Shakes-Drayton

Victoria Park Harrier targets improvement following Olympic heartache

Bow belle Perri Shakes-Drayton is determined to overcome her Olympic disappointment and come back a stronger athlete next season.

The Victoria Park Harriers and Tower Hamlets athlete failed to make the final of her 400m hurdles event at the Games, before finishing fifth in the final of the women’s 4x400m.

“I didn’t get to provemyself or show what I’m capable of doing,” she said. “I’ve got to remind myself that I’m a talented athlete. I’ve got it, it’s just at the right time I need to deliver.

“I’m being hard on myself, but I thought I was in good shape, but things happened and it didn’t go my way.

“I just can’t let it get to me too much, if anything it’s made me stronger and I want it even more.

“The years go on and hopefully I will redeem myself.

“Next year I want to be running quicker.”