Jelimo says her primary concern is to retain her Olympic 800m title

A world record is not part of Olympic champion Pamela Jelimo's immediate plans as she prepares to defend her 800m title at London Games. Instead, retaining her title is key for the 22 year old who came into the limelight in 2008, going on to win the olympic title in a junior record time of 1:54.87. Speaking at Team Kenya's residential training camp at Kasarani yesterday, Jelimo said she will be seeking to retain her title as opposed to setting a new world time.

"What is important is to retain my title," said Jelimo. "The rest will depend on how my body reacts. If I get the record, then it will be a big bonus." "I know every athlete (taking part in the race) is focusing on that title." "I know it will be a great pressure but I believe in myself," assured Jelimo. "When you are in shape...you feel the body is moving well, the morale is good, then what is important is to remain focused."

Jelimo said she is also aware of the kind of competition that will be in London and she will use this to her advantage. "I know Janeth (Jepkosgei) and Cherono (Koech) also want the title but its upon us to work hard together in training and see how it turns out." Jelimo knows competition will be tough especially from South Africa, Russia and Ethiopia but she insists: "I don't fear them. They are not new to me. Some of them we have run together in Samsung Diamond League races and I know where to apply my tactics." "I know everybody has her tactics for the race but I will just run my own race."

Jelimo said she also has faith in the rest of the athletes going to London. "As you can see, everybody is busy (with their training), everybody is doing the right thing. The spirit and the mood is very positive here. It is the best team ever, even compared to 2008 and I'm greatly honoured to be the assistant captain." World champion and world record holder David Rudisha is the team captain.