Bates College graduate Keelin Godsey was close to making the U.S. Olympic Track and Field team Thursday.

Painfully close.

In the end, Godsey finished fifth out of 24 athletes in the women’s hammer throw trials at Beaverton, Ore.

A spot in the top three would have ensured Godsey of a berth in the Summer Games in London next month.

Although Godsey set a personal record of 70.48 meters, that was a little more than a meter shy of the Olympic ‘A’ qualifying standard of 71.50.

“That was my lifetime best,” Godsey said. “And I can’t ask for anything more than my best.”

Godsey, 28, is one of the nation’s most acclaimed transgender athletes and was bidding to become the first in the history of U.S. Olympic track and field.

The Colorado native, born Kelly Godsey, came out to coaches and teammates as a senior at Bates.

He has continued to compete in women’s track and field competitions while identifying as a male.

Sports Illustrated featured Godsey in a special report, “The Transgender Athlete,” in its May 28 issue.

“It’s still amazing how he always steps up on that stage,” Bates head women’s track and field coach Jennifer “Jay” Hartshorn said.

Hartshorn coached Godsey during his final season at Bates.

Godsey won two national championships and 16 All-America distinctions as an NCAA Division III athlete.

He finished fifth in the hammer throw at the 2011 Pan American Games.

Nine athletes qualified for Thursday’s final round. Godsey made the cut by virtue of a throw of 223 feet, 8 inches.

Godsey’s first throw in the finals covered a career-best distance of 231-3. It was his first-ever throw past 70 meters.

“I’ve still done more than many people who are (transgender) have,” Godsey said. “I’ve competed at the highest level. I couldn’t be prouder.”

His previous best of 227-11 ranked No. 8 in the nation.

Amber Campbell won the trial with a top throw of 71.80 meters.

The result likely concludes Godsey’s career.

According to a report in the New York Times, Godsey intends to begin taking testosterone supplements and eventually undergo gender reassignment surgery now that his Olympic pursuit is complete.

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