McKinna – also a British powerlifting champion – contemplated having to retire at one stage, such was the severity of her injury.

“The injury itself was really hard but then the rehab and everything that followed was a really difficult time,” she added.

“I’ve had injuries in my career that have put roadblocks in the way but nothing as big as this.

“A surgery and basically a reconstruction of my elbow was obviously something really serious, particularly for a shot putter. It was really difficult to get over and the rehab was probably the hardest bit to mentally push through.”

So how is McKinna coping with the coverage from Paris when she is not involved?

“Although I am enjoying the Olympics, I am keeping half an eye on it rather than fully engrossed in it,” she added.

“I want everyone to perform to their best. Making the Olympics is such a huge achievement and I’ll always support my team-mates out there and all of Team GB.

“You want to see people do well for the country and for the sport. I’m still disappointed for myself but certainly there’s no bitterness or resentment towards the people that have made it.”