JAEDA Robinson, the youngest member of Jamaica’s team to the World Athletics Under-20 Championships, has expressed confidence ahead of the event, stating that she has nothing to fear from her opponents.

Robinson told the Jamaica Observer that she is looking forward to delivering a strong performance in the triple jump competition.

“Going into this championship, I am pretty confident,” she said. “I have been training consistently during the period, focusing on my technical drills, health and recovery, and, of course, getting feedback from my coach, Franz Forde. I have also been doing my mental preparations, goal-setting, and visualising.

“Being the youngest on the team is an achievement that can be both exciting and frightening; it is proof of my talent and potential. Going into this championship, I want to embrace this experience and showcase my skills on a global stage.”

Robinson, who turns 16 on Thursday, is a student of Immaculate Conception High School. She will enter the championships with a season’s and personal best (PB) mark of 13.21 metres.

Robinson is ranked 20th in the world, with the global leader being Yi Li of China who has a mark of 13.99m.

Robinson won the gold medal in the girls’ Under-17 competition at the Carifta Games, and finished second in the event at the Penn Relays in April.

She says, based on her training and hard work ahead of the championships, she expects nothing less than a podium finish.

“To hit the podium in Peru I know it is important for me to be prepared and to adjust to the conditions there,” Robinson said. “It is also important to ensure I stay healthy during the process and trust my coach so that I can hit my peak at this championship.”

Robinson says she has prepared herself mentally and physically to deal with the rigours of the championship, and is focused on the task ahead.

“I am staying focused under pressure and keeping my eyes on the task ahead,” she said. “My biggest motivation going into this competition is to see what I can achieve, accomplish new goals, and hopefully set a new PB.

“I’m a little nervous but it’s normal, especially since it’s my first World Under-20 Championship at such a young age. Instead of letting the nerves get the best of me, I will channel that energy into a strong performance.”

The meet will be staged in Lima, Peru, from August 27 to 31.