JADE O’Dowda hopes to channel any nerves into a big performance when she makes her Commonwealth Games debut this morning.

The former Oxford City AC youngster competes in the 100m hurdles shortly after 10am at Birmingham’s Alexander Stadium.

It is the first of seven events for the heptathlete, with the high jump, shot put and 200m all following later today.

And O’Dowda, from Kidlington, is relishing her first experience of a senior major championships with Team England.

The 22-year-old said: “It’s a big occasion and it’s on the big stage, but it’s still 100 metres and there are still ten hurdles. It’s what we do every day in training.

“When you get the first event out of the way you can settle down and get into your ryhthm.

“It’s good to be nervous because it shows that you care and you’re ready to go.

“I’ve never competed in front of a big crowd, so I’m sure that will be an experience in itself.

“Hopefully I rise to the occasion, but I’m just going to take everything in my stride.”

In the pool, Bicester’s Kieran Bird was due to race for Wales in the 4x200m freestyle final last night, which took place after the Oxford Mail went to press.

Meanwhile, England’s Rugby Sevens team, which included former Chinnor forward Max Clementson, beat Uganda 31-17 in the ninth-place play-off.