IT wasn't to be for James Tomlinson at the IAAF World Under 20s Championships in Tampere, Finland on the weekend - but the Pembrokeshire Harrier has vowed to return better for it.

The 18-year-old missed out on qualification for the final of the discus after finishing outside of the top six in Group A on Saturday, but to his credit, offered an honest assessment when speaking to Telegraph Sport.

A clearly disappointed Tomlinson said: "I sacrificed a whole lot to be here and for it not to go as I wanted is very hard to take. I know I’m capable of big things I’ve proved that in the past."

But the Commonwealth Youth Games silver medalist has also vowed not to let the setback de-rail him in any way.

"The World Championships was cut short for me and I am of course upset about it but I will not let myself be defeated by this. It is not the end or even the beginning of the end but the start to a very exciting career.

"My team and I will be making changes over the next months to release the potential I have and now it's about hard work."

And Tomlinson, from Pembroke Dock, also took time to recognise those who continued to help him.

"I am forever thankful for everyone who is around me - my mum and dad first and foremost. They sacrifice more than anybody.

"And then my coach Paul Jensen who I’ve worked with since 2014, my physio Liba Sheeran who has got me through many hard times and my strength and conditioning coach Simon Roach, who is developing me into a stronger and more resilient athlete by the week.

"I can’t name everyone but also Adrian Palmer has worked with me for years, and has travelled to many countries with me mentoring me and teaching me the ways of the trade.

"I would like to also like to thank British and Welsh Athletics for supporting me and giving me amazing opportunities for which I will repay them some day with major international medals."

Indeed, Tomlinson still as much for compete for before the summer of 2018 is out, and will return to training upon his return from Finland.