IT will be a proud day for many next Tuesday morning when Malvern's very own Evie Richards straddles her bike at the start line of the Women's Mountain Bike race on her Olympic debut in Tokyo.

The former Chase School student, 24, was named as part of the Team GB Cycling squad last month but now her Olympic dreams become reality as she hits the big time in Japan.

But where did it all start? Current Head of Physical Education and once Evie's teacher at The Chase, Gwyn Thomas, recalls her relentless desire to succeed.

"She just wanted to know everything, she left no stone unturned," he said.

"She challenged everything and wanted every bit of information. The thing that stood out for me was that desire to reach the pinnacle and be the best.

"The students are excited and the staff are also looking forward to it - there was a real buzz around the school when she was selected.

"We all got up to watch her medal at the Commonwealth Games back in 2014 and we will be doing exactly the same this year!"

But Evie didn't always cycle. Whilst at secondary school at The Chase, she was a keen cross-country runner and hockey player.

Father, Gareth, explains how following Liam Kileen, another Malvern mountain bike Olympian, to the Commonwealth Games in 2014 sparked his daughter's desire to cycle.

"The local cycling club, Malvern Cycle Sport (MCS), had a great reputation and they would often encourage young riders.

''Liam Killeen was coaching there and he was selected to race in the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games and we went to watch him.

"I could see that this was the moment that Evie realised she wanted to race at this level. She was hooked on the prospect of racing one day for England or GB.''

Evie's Mum, Emma, added: "We have shared a roller coaster of ride with Evie. We have cried many tears but also shared so many magical moments with wonderful people.

 "What makes us so proud is that through it all, she has remained true to her own chaotic, beautiful self and always wears the biggest smile. Her dream has come true and the tears will be of joy on the day."

The race will be shown on the big screen at Malvern RFC next Tuesday at 6.30AM.