From Olympic aspirant to top of the state in academic achievement, Jessica Fox has completed 2011 in style. Jessica, 17, of Leonay (near Penrith/Sydney), came first in personal development, health and physical education (PDHPE) with a HSC mark of 99.

The Blaxland High School student said coping with nerves and stress prior to competing in canoe/kayak slalom events helped her with exams.

I think I have learnt to handle the pressure when I train or compete and it has translated into my school work.

“I seem to work well under pressure as well which has shown in my marks. I think having sport helped clear my mind in terms of getting my mind off the HSC. I wasn’t really expecting to come first in the state, it never crossed my mind but I am very proud.”

Jessica also received great marks in her other exams, with 97 in French, 94 in maths, 93 in advanced English and 87 in biology.

The next few months are booked with training and competing for a spot in the Olympic team.

“From the day I finished my exams I have been training twice a day every day at Penrith Whitewater Stadium,” she said.

“I do want to go to university and study media and international studies or, depending if my ATAR is higher, possibly a degree in science.”

WHAT A YEAR

• FEBRUARY: Becomes 2010 Penrith Press Junior Sports Star of the year and overall NewsLocal winner
• JULY: Wins two gold women’s C1 medals at the ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup in France and Germany
• SEPTEMBER: Helped Australia claim gold in the C1 teams event at the Canoe/Kayak Slalom World Championships in Bratislava, Slovakia