Australian Institute of Sport long jumper Robbie Crowther has declared he is close to his best form heading into this weekend’s Australian National Championships at Olympic Park in Melbourne.

The former world junior champion is on the comeback trail having undergone surgery on his troublesome hamstring last November.

Crowther admitted the past two years had been frustrating as he battled through a number of injuries.  

“I’ve found out a fair bit about myself over the past two years, that sport can take you to the top of the mountain and it can also take you to the depths,” Crowther said.

“With my hamstring injury I’ve learnt to listen to my body, to back off in training when it’s hurting but more importantly stick with what works for me.'

“My coach Craig Hilliard and Ross Smith (AIS Strength and Conditioning) have got me doing a lot more lighter stuff, a lot more stretching and more focus on technique.”

“To be back pain free is a really good feeling and I’m confident I have what it takes to qualify for the IAAF World Championships in Korea in August'.

That would mean recording an A-qualifying jump of 8.20 metres before the cut off date of 31 July.

Crowther jumped 7.80m and 7.92m at a recent meet in Perth and his form in training suggests he can jump above the eight metre mark.

“I didn’t hit one board in Perth so I’ve been working on my run up and making sure I nail some boards this weekend,” Crowther said.  

“If I can do that then there is no reason why I can’t get around the 8.15m mark at the Nationals.”

“A lot will depend on the conditions in Melbourne but if I get all the processes right then I feel I’ll jump well.”

If Crowther doesn’t manage to secure an A-qualifying jump then he will head overseas where he will compete in various European meets.

Like all elite athletes Crowther has his eye firmly set on representing Australia at the 2012 London Olympic Games.

“To compete at my first Olympics in London would mean everything to me, especially after I missed out on Beijing by just 4 centimetres,” Crowther said.

“If my body is right then I’m confident I’ll make London.”