Olympic champion Christine Ohuruogu. - File

British champion Chrisitina Ohuruogu has given high marks to Jamaican athletes for their attitude towards the sport of track and field, and continues to be impressed after undergoing a second training stint with local outfit Racers Track Club.

Aside from that, though, the athlete, who was spotted at last Saturday's Grace Jackson/Queen's Invitational meet, where several of the country's leading senior athletes, including Melaine Walker, Kaliese Spencer, Sherone Simpson and Shericka William made their seasonal debut, is simply enjoying her time in the island, famous for its laid-back flavour.

"The atmosphere here in Jamaica is great and I am enjoying every aspect of it," Ohuruogu told Star Sports.

training partner

"When I came last year, I did so because one of my training partners, Simeon Williamson, is part of the Racers Track Club and works out with Glen Mills. After spending a few weeks I realised that the atmosphere was something that would help me in my preparation," she continued.

The Nigeria-born athlete came into prominence after her triumph at the Osaka 2007 World Championships, where she won the gold medal in the women's 400m, and followed up that victory with gold medal in the same event at the Beijing Olympic Games the following year.

"It is so relaxing training in Jamaica as there are no distractions, not like when I am at home. I come to training then I can go home and relax. The people here are so friendly and welcoming, they make me feel very accepted here. I like the passion the Jamaicans show in their track and field and the disciplined way in which they go about it," Ohuruogu said.

In fact, the athlete, who has already spent two weeks out of her planned eight weeks in the country, expects it to have a big impact on her performance this season, as she looks to regain her crown at this summer's World Championships.

big plus

"Training with the Jamaicans is a big plus for me as they are on top of the world now and there is a lot I can learn from them.

This experience will make me much better and there is a lot I can take back when I return home," she said.

The athlete, who missed out competing in last year's Common-wealth Games due to hip injury but has since recovered, has a critical two years ahead. The Beijing Olympic champion will be hoping to defend her crown on home turf in 2012 but is making no predictions.

"At the moment, I am making no predictions for the upcoming season and beyond. I am taking it day by day as I will not put myself under any pressure. I am just putting in the hard work and I will then take it from there."