Gambian sprinter Gina Bass narrowly missed out on the 200m women’s final after finishing fourth. 

This was Bass’s second attempt at an Olympic medal in a track and field event dominated by big name athletes.

The 26-year-old gave her best during Monday’s second 200 semifinal heats which was won by Jamaican Olympic champion Elaine Thompson-Herah. 

Bass clocked 22:67 but it was not enough to get her to the final as a fastest loser.

She is the first Gambian Olympic athlete to make it to the semifinals of both the 100m and 200m. 

Her fantastic performance at the top echelon of athletic competitions has made her the queen of the nation and inspired so many future athletes.

“We are super proud of this achievement from you. We will celebrate you today and forever. Congratulations and more wins ahead,” The Gambia Olympic Committee said in a message posted on Facebook.

Her success is no mean feat given she’s from one of the smallest and poorest country in the world. Bass lacked support,  sponsorship and elite training facility which led to her being dubbed the “poor Olympian”. 

The Gambia Government has provided her little support despite her extraordinary achievements including being crowned the African women 200m champion after defeating Ivorian superstar Marie Jose Talou in the 2019 African Games.