WORCESTER archer Mel Clarke has got her eyes fixed on gold as she aims to clinch her first World Championship title since 2005.
The St John’s resident was selected as part of the Great Britain team to head to Bangkok for the competition which starts on Friday (November 1).
Compatriot Danielle Brown, who Clarke narrowly lost to in a dramatic women’s compound final at last year’s Paralympic Games, will be the archer to beat having secured top prize in the previous three World Championships.
But Clarke said she had been in fine form in training and she was now relishing the chance to transfer it onto the world stage.
“It’s been a long season and I’ve made some significant technical and equipment changes, but at the moment I’m pleased with my shooting,” she said.
“Last week at a training camp my team-mate and I shot an unofficial world record during a competition simulation practice so that’s a good confidence boost.
“Obviously I would love to come home with a medal, but all I can do is to compete the best I can on the world circuit as it’s a great honour to be representing Great Britain at another World Championships.
“I think the Olympic and Paralympic games are the biggest honour that an athlete can compete in, but this competition still has a status, especially to have the title of ‘World Champion’. To be the best in the world at what you do is incredible and a fantastic feeling. I did that in 2005 and would love to once more hold that title”
Clarke also believes a strong performance at the championships would put her on the right track ahead of the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio in three years time.
“Experience at international competitions is really valuable in preparing for Rio,” she added. “Competing in different stadiums, seeing what effect travel has on individuals and competing at the highest level keeps you on your toes.
“This World Championships doesn’t count towards winning quota places for Great Britain for Rio, but that doesn’t mean the whole team won’t be going out determined to compete and trying to win.”
