Twell slims down targets to focus on Worlds

STEPH Twell has underlined her growing reputation by swerving this month's European under-23 Championships to prepare for the World Athletics Championships in Berlin.

ON THE RISE: Steph Twell is ignoring junior athletics to focus on this summer's IAAF World Championships (Getty Images)

World junior champion Twell, who made her Olympic debut in Beijing, is viewed as the rising middle distance star of British athletics, dominating this season's cross country circuit.

However, after discussions with UKA officials and coach Mick Woods, the 19-year old has slimmed down her targets and won't now compete in the 5000m in Kaunus.

"It is always an honour and a privilege for Steph to represent her country, but there are more important targets this summer," said Woods.

"Having looked at her training schedule we have reconsidered. The European 23s would have been a huge interruption to training and so we have decided to give this one a miss and focus our energies on Berlin."

However, Twell will compete in this weekend's Aviva National Championships in Birmingham, which double up as trials for next month's Worlds.

"It's disappointing that Stephanie will miss these championships, but we respect the decision of the athlete and coach," said under-23 team leader John Trower.

"We wish them well for the remainder of the season and in particular with her World Championship ambitions."