Joel Clarke-Khan: Worcester high jumper cherishes UK title after injuries

He believes a reunion with Worcester Athletic Club coach Deirdre Elmhirst, following a spell working with Olympic silver medallist Robbie Grabarz, is also paying off.

“I think we’ve just clicked,” he added. “Everything we knew about each other before, the chemistry, it’s just working so well.

“We’re both just in the upward together and it’s a really nice feeling.

“We did have goals of about 2.25 Commonwealth (Games) standard, but as soon as I got out there, I knew all I wanted to do was win. As soon as the job was done, I was absolutely happy with that.”

Clarke-Khan, who is engaged to Great Britain pole vaulter Molly Caudery, now has his sights set on selection for to this summer’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

A return to competition in Birmingham at the European Championships in August is another goal, but the rejuvenated athlete knows he will have to jump higher still to earn the right.

“I know there’s a lad out in America who represents the UK and looks great as well, so it’s not going to be an easy job, but I’m just going to keep working and doing the best I can,” he said.

“The start of the season has been fantastic and if we can just keep building then hopefully I’ll be in the position to gain selection for those championships.”