CHELMSFORD Athletic Club's Jessica Judd revealed she used the carrot of an imaginary medal to ensure she powered over the line in third place at the Sainsbury's Glasgow Grand Prix and boosted her continental ambitions.
Judd finished clear of four British compatriots, including European champion Lynsey Sharp and world bronze medallist Jenny Meadows, as she clocked a time of 2:00.01 minutes for third.
And it is a finish that could prove important with a place at next month's European Championships up for grabs after Judd failed to take the opportunity at the Sainsbury's British Championships.
The 19-year-old finished fourth in Birmingham but was the best Brit in Glasgow and is the second quickest this year while she will also be back in Scotland for the Commonwealth Games.
And after her first-lap tactics went awry at Hampden Park Judd pictured herself storming down the home straight to win a Commonwealth medal in order to earn more international recognition.
"I thought if I kept kicking I could get there," she said. "I tried my best and down the back straight I thought 'I have to hold on'.
"I want to try and get in medal positions, that's my aim, so I thought I have to hang on to that imaginary medal and I did.
"It was hard, I messed it up a bit tactically. My coach Rob (Denmark) wouldn't have been happy but I've learnt a lot.
"I've learnt not to panic. I saw everyone ahead of me and I just panicked and thought I need to go with them. But I didn't need to. I'm so happy."
American Ajee Wilson took victory in Glasgow and Judd will be delighted not to have to go head-to-head with her at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
She has long been Judd's nemesis, beating her to gold at the World Junior Championships and World Youth Championships in the last three years.
But Judd, who is in for a busy next few months, is adamant recording a victory over her rival from across the Atlantic will not be too far away.
"I know AJ is a brilliant competitor and I really want to beat her one day, because she always beats me," added Judd.
"Hopefully I'll get it right next time. To come third and not be far off my personal best was great though."
Sainsbury's is proud to support British Athletics through the Summer Series events and is committed to helping young people lead healthier, more active lifestyles. For more information visit www.sainsburys.co.uk/legacy
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