A DOCTOR, who works at the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch, is on her way to Rio to compete at this summer’s Olympic Games in the city.

Sara Treacy, a junior doctor based in the A&E department, will be running the 3,000 metre steeplechase race representing her home country, the Republic of Ireland.

Sara, who is on a sabbatical period in order to train for her debut in the Olympics, finished ninth at this year’s European Athletics Championships steeplechase final, and also ran a personal best against a world class field in July at the London Anniversary Games.

Sarah said: "I'm so excited to get out to Rio and compete in the games, this will be my first games but I'm thrilled to be involved and represent Ireland in the Olympics.

"It's great to have support at home to know I'll be being cheered on back in Redditch and across Worcestershire’s hospitals too."

A spokesperson for Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust added: "It’s fantastic to see a member of staff realise such a great personal achievement. We wish Sara every success in her race in Rio and hope she can bring back a medal to show her colleagues in Redditch who will all be cheering her on."

Her first round race takes place at 2pm on Saturday, August 13.

You can follow Sara’s progression on her Twitter page on @sara_treacy