Derry’s Aileen Reid is all set to take on the world at the Rio Olympics, which officially get under way tonight with the opening ceremony.
The 34-year-old triathlete (pictured) is not just in Brazil to make up the numbers as she attempts to make up for the disappointing Games in London four years ago.
Back then, she was well in contention but crashed off her bike in the closing stages, resulting in a 43rd place finish..
She said: “I know what I’m capable of. I don’t think that giving up is something that a competitor should do at any level.
“I’m in it to cross the line and do the best that I can and if I crash I’m going to get back up as long as I’m capable and keep going.
“ It certainly gives me motivation to get back out there and do my best again.
“I’m an Olympian because I was in London but I didn’t feel I was an Olympian until I crossed the line.
"43rd place was not what I was hoping for in the Olympics and I’m certainly hoping I can do myself justice this time around and finish somewhere up and around the top ten.”
The event is used to raise money for a wide range of local charities.
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