Team GB snowboarder Zoe Gillings has revealed that she feels lucky to have the chance to represent her country in the Winter Olympics for a third time.

The 28-year-old competed in Turin 2006 and Vancouver 2010, where she finished eighth despite picking up a knee injury in her semi-final.

"When I was a kid I hoped to compete in the Olympics some day but never dreamt I would compete in three," she told reporters.

"The course looks very big and fast, which should make it very good for TV. I've been getting tons of good-luck messages from back home, which is lovely and I'm so grateful for their support.

"The weather here in Sochi is super warm. People have been sunbathing the past couple of days which is crazy since we are at the winter Olympics! Hopefully the course holds up well under the heat."

Gillings, from the Isle of Man, will take part in the women's snowboarder cross event on Sunday in Sochi.