BURNLEY’S hammer throwing star Sophie Hitchon celebrated the finest result of his career last night as she claimed a bronze medal in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Hitchon, the ballet dancer turned field athlete, hurled the hammer out to 68.72 metres to land her team’s third athletics medal of Glasgow 2014.

Sultana Frizell took the gold in a Games record 71.97m.

But Hitchon, 23, was honest enough to admit that she was slightly disappointed not to take silver or even gold as she competed at Hampden Park.

“The first few rounds were a little jerky and I only got it together later on,” said the Blackburn Harrier. “That is just what happens sometimes.

“I am amazingly pleased with a medal, but I just always want the very best as an athlete.

“I just wanted to go out there and do my very best and I suppose I am a little disappointed not to go one step further and claim the silver.”

Frizell dominated the competition with four throws north of 70m and the defending champion duly earned another gold gong to hang alongside her success at Delhi 2010.

Frizell and Julia Ratcliffe were well clear of their 10 rivals until Hitchon’s effort in the final round.

The experienced 29-year-old Canadian always had her nose in front after opening with 70.55m.

Hitchon saved her best for last. Her final throw of 68.72m was an improvement on her previous efforts, but not enough of one to make any impact on the two women above.

She had to make do with bronze and looked happy enough as she acknowledged the crowd.