By Anna Thompson

Minichiello finished on the World Cup podium three times this season

British bobsleigh driver Nicola Minichiello is celebrating her best season on the World Cup circuit yet.

The 30-year-old finished third overall after a consistent season which included three podium results and a bronze at the European Championships.

The University of Bath-based athlete was partnered by Gillian Cooke and Jackie Gunn during the eight races.

Paul Curry, of the British Bobsleigh Association, told BBC Sport: "It has been an excellent season for Nicola."

He added: "She has performed consistently well and is definitely a medal chance at the Winter Olympics in Vancouver next year."

The World Cup title was won by Germany's Sandra Kiriasis for the seventh time in a row, with compatriot Cathleen Martini taking the runners-up spot.

Minichiello, who hails from Sheffield, and her team are now heading to Lake Placid in the United States for the World Championships, which start on Friday.

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