JESSICA Warner-Judd was full of smiles after finishing a brilliant eighth in the 10,000m World Championship final.
Warner-Judd, who is from Canvey Island, crossed the line in 31 minutes, 35.38 seconds.
And she was delighted with her display.
“I couldn’t have imagined it going that well,” Warner-Judd told Athletics Weekly.
“I kept looking at the screen because I was hurting and I was thinking just don’t commit too much but there was a small group and I was part of it so I did commit and thought ‘just go.’
“The last 100 metres the Japanese girl came past me.
“I really tried but she’s so good.
“We had been toing and froing during the race but I’m glad it was her who came past because she’s lovely and I can’t be too upset.”
The former Castle View pupil was with the leading pack throughout the race in Budapest.
And the 28-year-old felt in shape to run faster.
“I’m really fit and thought I was in 30 minute and teen (second) shape,” said Warner-Judd.
“I truly believe that and thought I could get under 30:20 but when I saw the first 5k I thought ‘well, that’s gone.
“The only plan we didn’t have was if it was slow but the British Champs was perfect for that because that was slow too and I just thought to myself ‘commit, commit.
“I’m just so happy and when I was counting I just thought ‘no way, I’m eighth.’
“We went all in for the 10k which is scary in a way.
“Normally we have the 5k to fall back on but we went all in to see what happened and it was pretty good.
“I might have to go all in more!”
Warner-Judd was competing at her fifth World Championship, 10 years after taking to the track for her first global event in Moscow.
And she remains proud to represent her country.
“It’s amazing,” said Warner- Judd.
“Nothing is guaranteed in this sport and I’m so honoured to represent my country.
“It’s such a great thing and I’m part of such a great team.
“It’s been a horrible journey at times but I’m so happy and it’s all been worth it for moments like that.”
Judd was the first European athlete to finish the race won by Ethiopian Gudaf Tsegay in 31 minutes, 27.18 seconds.
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