Alex Coomber believes she can strike Olympic gold for Britain in Salt Lake City tomorrow.

The 28-year-old RAF flight lieutenant from Worthing is favourite to win the first Olympic skeleton bobsleigh title following three successive World Cup triumphs.

She said: "I haven't got a crystal ball but I know I'm capable of winning a gold medal. I expect it will be close, but what I hope will give me the edge is my consistency.

"I would swap all my three World Cup titles for an Olympic gold. It would be a prized possession."

At 5ft 3in, Coomber has the ideal build to hurtle down a mile-long track at speeds of 80mph on a sled just three foot long which is just two inches off the ice.

"There is a need to be physically strong so you are able pull your muscles this way and that depending on the curve," she said. "You have to stay calm so mental toughness is vital.

"You're thinking 'keep still and avoid hitting the wall', but it will be like going on the highest, most rockiest rollercoaster you can imagine times a hundred. Going down a track which costs £30m on your own will be a good feeling."

Coomber insists fear of personal injury will not be a factor.

"I've had a few minor injuries, like a cut on my chin, pulled muscles and damaged knees, but it's not a dangerous sport."

Her restless spirit, prevalent since her days at Lady of Sion School in Worthing, is a big reason why she is competing in her first Olympics.

"I like to have a go at things," she added. "While I was at school, I played county netball, ran for Worthing Harriers and competed in the national junior championships.

"It's the same motivation as I have for the skeleton now - I'm easily bored."

Mum Rosemary, who suffered a heart attack 18 months ago, will be watching from her home in Rustington, but husband Eric, who doubles up as her coach, and sisters Veronique and Ursula, have made the trip to Utah.