JENNA Blundell is hoping a more relaxed attitude will help her get onto the podium at the World Schools’ Championships in Croatia next week.

The 17-year-old junior international athlete from Staverton, near Bradford on Avon, flies out with the England team on Monday to take part in the long jump on Wednesday before tackling her main event, the 100m hurdlers, the following day.

She will end a busy week in the England sprint relay team.

“I am so excited about the trip,” said Blundell.

“There is so much I don’t know about this event and who is competing and to be honest that is fine.

“Recently I have been getting a bit worked up about going for personal bests and over-thinking things too much. I am going to Croatia to enjoy the event and do the best I can.”

Not that Blundell has not got high hopes for her first major international event overseas.

A recent personal best of 13.67secs, although for record purposes it was massively wind-assisted, will put her among the medal contenders for the 100m hurdles.

Then last weekend, the former St Laurence School student scorched to a PB of 12.29secs in the 100m competing for Team Avon in the opening match of the UK Youth Development League U20/17s match at Swansea followed by a 14.00secs, into a headwind, to win the 100m hurdles.

“I was delighted with the 100m and told my coach afterwards that I am starting to feel like a sprinter,” added Blundell.

“I wasn’t so happy with the hurdles or my high jump win (1.60m), but it is something to build upon.

“Looking towards Croatia, I am hoping to get onto the podium.”