TABLE tennis ace Chloe Thomas admitted Bournemouth University had played a key role in her journey to the Commonwealth Games.

The 23-year-old, originally from Tredegar, is due to represent Wales in her second Commonwealths having featured in Glasgow four years ago.

Thomas's plane ticket to Australia's Gold Coast was secured in January when the Welsh squad – including 11-year-old Anna Hursey – was announced.

A nutrition student, Thomas spent six months training full-time in China in preparation for her adventure Down Under next month.

She said: “It has taken a lot of time, dedication and training to reach the standard required to compete on the international stage. But as athletes, we are used to sacrificing a lot in order to achieve our goals.

“I am immensely proud to have been selected to represent my country. I consider it an honour and a privilege each time I wear the Welsh kit.

“My lecturers were understanding of my situation. SportBU have been very supportive and have provided me with so much help and assistance in getting me where I needed to be. I can't thank them enough.”

Thomas, who took up the sport at the age of nine, is already considering what Wales could achieve in the games.

She added: “I cannot wait to head out there. It’s exciting to watch the build up and see the location.

"Wales are hoping to improve on their position achieved in Glasgow and fulfil our aspirations of a medal.”