Medical student Luke Treharne is currently in Rio as part of the Team GB rugby sevens squad.

Medical student tackling Olympics in GB rugby sevens squad

Medical student Luke Treharne is making full use of his gap year – he is currently in Rio as part of the Team GB rugby sevens squad.

Luke, 23, has completed four years at Medical School, and is taking a year out to pursue his sporting dream. He plans to return to study in Truro in year 5, to complete his degree.

The student with the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry, a partnership between the universities of Exeter and Plymouth, said: “It's challenging juggling the degree and rugby. I’ve found that my whole week needs to be organised to make sure I'm fulfilling both demands. I really enjoy being constantly busy.

“Having a year out this year has been really refreshing and a chance to solely concentrate on rugby. My rugby has improved massively and I’ve been rewarded with a spot at the Olympics. Next year I am coming back to medical school, which offers a further challenge to maintaining my level of rugby. The medical school is being really supportive with the whole process and I'm excited to start doing some Medicine again.”

Luke, from Swansea, said: “I'm really excited about the games. The Olympics is the pinnacle of all sports. There's been a huge buzz during the training camp for the Olympics and everyone can't wait to play!”

So far, Team GB’s Rugby Sevens team has beaten Japan and Kenya, and is scheduled to play New Zealand later today.

Date: 10 August 2016