In terms of timing their run to the Paris Olympics, not many athletes have done it better than Bridget Clark.
The 21-year-old was content with playing her Rugby for Burraneer three months ago, one of the biggest and most successful female-only Sevens programs.
However, a string of injuries opened the door for a dream debut in Hong Kong in April.
“I guess I never really expected this year to go the way it has," Clark reflected to Rugby.com.au
“I’m very lucky that has gone this way, I don’t know how to describe it.
“I just feel very lucky to be where I am.”
In her debut event at the home of the world series, Clark proved she belonged with the best in the world in the bronze medal match.
Down 21-7, Clark sprinted away from a trio of defenders to start the comeback, before some excellent hands off the deck as the siren sounded presented the opportunity for Maddison Levi to score the winner.
“It was insane. The crowd in Hong Kong was so special and to be doing it alongside all the girls who are so supportive and encouraging was a dream come true," she said on the moment.
“We talk about coming off the bench and providing impact so to have that experience and knowledge that we can do that, come on and change the game with moments like that is really special.”
It left Clark's position in the squad almost undeniable as coach Tim Walsh went to select his team for Paris, handing the three-event speedster an Olympic berth.
“I had no idea, I was really nervous the whole week because I didn’t know what was going to happen," Clark admits on the selection process.
“It hasn’t sunk in yet, to be honest…the emotions were really high and my parents, you could tell they were really proud which was so special to me.
“They booked their tickets immediately to Paris so it was a very special moment to share with them.”
It's a long way from the days of being starstruck by captain Charlotte Casick after the gold medalist visited Clark's school as a teenager.
“It means so much to me. I remember watching the Rio 2016 Final and wishing to be there and be an Olympian so it’s so special," Clark added.
“It’s pretty incredible to play with Sharni (Smale) and Charlotte, they were such big role models for me and I still see them as role models.
“They inspire me every day and encourage me to work harder and I really look up to them even though they’re my teammates.
“It’s very special to be able to play with them.”
