Belgium’s Olympic high jump champion Tia Hellebaut said yesterday she would defend her title in London next year.

The 33-year-old had taken time off to have her second child – who was born on February 15 – but she said that she would be returning to competition by the end of the year.

Hellebaut, who was European champion in the event in 2006, had already taken time off the sport towards the end of 2008 when she became pregnant, and gave birth to her first daughter Lotte in June 2009.

“Aside from some exercises, I have not yet resumed jumping,” said Hellebaut, who was pentathlon world indoor champion in 2008.

“I hope to be able to start some regular training sessions in September. My first actual competition is scheduled for winter.”