Mexican Challenge proves tough for Jackson

Carnegie Sports Scholar and British Record Holder Jo Jackson found the going tough in the Mexican city of Chihuahua as she represented Graet Britain in the IAAF World race Walking Cup.

Following a string of fine performances Jo went into the 20km race with high hopes of a top 15 finish.

At and altitude of 1450 meters and with the mercury on the thermometer showing 36C even at the 6pm start time and a strong wind against the athletes on the uphill section, plus no shade on the course it was always going to be tough for Jo. 

Having seen the effects of the conditions in the mornings 50 Kilometers, Jo set of conservatively holding around 30th place and passed 5km in 24.30 (29th). Soon after this Jo began to experience severe stomach cramps which necessitated in her stopping for the toilet twice and hampered her efforts causing her to drop to 37th place at 10km (50.53).

While many athletes around her called it a day, Jo battled gamely to the finish to take 46th place (1.47.12). Afterwards Jackson said "I am bitterly disappointed with that as I knew I was in shape to get in the top 15". Jo will now focus on the European Championships in Barcelona in July and the Commonwealth Games in Delhi in October.