With 200 meters left in the women's steeplechase at the world championships in Beijing, former Colorado distance star Emma Coburn was in prime position, feeling strong, and ready to make a final push for a medal at the biggest event in her sport next to the Olympics.
But over the final water jump and then the last 50 meters, she faded to fifth. The finish left her struggling with her emotions and wondering what could have been.
"I accomplished my goal of getting top five, but really thought I could medal," Coburn, who races for New Balance, wrote The Denver Post in a text message afterward.