Smith takes world lead in stride

Taking the lessons from last year's eye-opening season, NCAA collegiate long jump champion Ackelia Smith is not taking her impressive start this season for granted or getting ahead of herself, tunnelling her vision towards a strong showing at the World Championships in Budapest next month.

Smith finished third in the women's long jump on Thursday with an effort of 6.66 metres. Tissanna Hickling won the title in 6.85 metres, while Chanice Porter was second with a wind-aided 6.72.

For Smith, windy conditions and a quick turnaround from a rewarding college season played a role in her performance but believes she will be in a better shape when the real business starts.

"It may be a little weird, but I have been away from Jamaica too long, and I am not used to the temperature. It's just the wind that played a big role," Smith told STAR Sports.

"It has been a quick turnaround from the NCAA season. That does put a little bit of pressure on your legs, but by the time the World Championship comes around, everyone should be well rested and ready to go."

Smith has had a strong season where her personal best effort of 7.08 metres she set in May is the best jump in the world this year. Reflecting on last year's World Championship debut and making her first final, she said that the experience assisted her in taking her game to a different level.

"Last year, I went mainly for the experience, and I have applied most of what I have learnt this season and seen it pay off. I am still using all of these meets as experience," Smith said.

But while grateful for the achievement, Smith remained cognisant of the work she has to do to give her the best chance of succeeding at the World Championships in an international field.

"Having the world lead is wonderful, especially for Jamaica. That has put me out there, but I think it is the work ethic. You come out meet after meet, and try to do better than before. I wouldn't say I'm experienced. I have been competing on the college circuit and not so much on the international.

"As long as I get some of those international meets, then I can say I am a little bit more seasoned, but for now, I would say I am still maturing," Smith said.

Smith will hope to do the double at the World Championships, contesting the triple jump at the National Championships Friday afternoon.