Eliza McCartney shocked the world as she claimed a bronze medal in the pole vault at her first Olympics.
"I wasn't expecting it, so it makes it even sweeter," said the 19-year-old.
"My heart was pounding like crazy."
McCartney appeared calmed and composed in the final, landing her first three attempts on the first go.
"I felt like I really didn't have anything to lose.
"I was really enjoying it, and I think that helps a lot and it worked out well."
The Takapuna Grammar product matched her personal best in the final of 4.80 metres, but was unable to beat that target.
"Equalling my personal best in the final was enough for me," she said.
"Jumping it in a final is huge."
McCartney and her camp were targeting the Tokyo Olympics for a medal, but all the hard work and training has paid off early.
"It's down to the training, and I guess everything we have been working on for the last two years is coming together."
BMX rider Sarah Walker has been a massive influence on the 19-year-old's rise and helping her with what to expect at an Olympic Games.
"I didn't know what I was doing heading in, and she does, so it gives me a new perspective on what to expect."
McCartney's bronze medal was New Zealand's 16th medal of the Rio Olympics.
Newshub.
