Marchant driven by domestic competition

With Becky James returning from a prolonged absence on the sidelines and Jess Varnish also posing stern competition, Marchant’s spot at the Olympics is not guaranteed.

While London 2012 was a whirlwind of success for the country, this year's World Championships in Paris were far-from ideal.

But, with round two of the Track Cycling World Cup in New Zealand next week, preparations a ramping up and Marchant knows competition will only serve to enhance Britain’s medal chances.

"With Jess, Becky and myself all riding in that same category it means we are always pushing each other and we are all fighting for those spots," Marchant told Sky Sports.

"It's great to ride alongside these girls and I've no doubt it is helping me to get better. Rio is the ultimate dream for me and I'm doing everything at this moment in time to make sure I'm on that plane.

"It's great to have Becky back on the team. I love having her around and she's great in training and to be alongside.

"We are competitive with each other because we are effectively battling out for the same spot in the team sprint, but I think that helps us both to benefit from training and racing and I think we are both getting stronger and stronger."

Sportsbeat 2015