Welwyn Wheeler Laura Trott

WELWYN Wheelers ace Laura Trott is in the GB cycling squad for the Olympic Test Event to be held later this month at the newly built velodrome in the Olympic Park, London.

The teenager’s selection is a clear indication that she is on track to compete at the Olympic Games themselves, although she will face stern competition for a place from other GB riders.

Hertfordshire’s Trott is one of the 16-strong GB squad for the first round of the UCI Track Cycling World Cup Classics, which also doubles up as the test event, to be held on February 17-19.

Joining the 19-year-old in the GB team are Olympic gold medallists Sir Chris Hoy, Victoria Pendleton, Jason Kenney, Ed Clancy and Geraint Thomas.

GB Cycling’s performance director Dave Brailsford, said: “The World Cup in London has added significance given that it’s the first major event to be held at the Olympic venue.

“We are using the Test Event as a learning opportunity for our Olympic preparations and have selected a full-strength squad accordingly.

“The riders and staff are looking forward to gaining race experience at the London Velodrome and it’s always fantastic for us to have the support of a sell-out home crowd.”

The event is be screened on BBC 2.