Gillings finished eighth at the Vancouver Olympics in February 2010

Isle of Man snowboarder Zoe Gillings has qualified 11th at the opening round of the World Championships in La Molina, Spain.

The British number one has had an unsettled start to her season, with the news that her funding from UK Sport has been cancelled for the year ahead.

"It has been difficult, but the fact remains that I am driven by an ambition to be the best," said the 25-year-old.

The top 16 snowboarders progress to Tuesday's heats.

The heats will see four competitors race at a time, with the top two qualifying for the semi-finals and a further race to decide the finalists.

"I made a few little mistakes, but I am very happy with my performance," she added.

Gillings warmed up for the event with a confident third place finish in last week's FIS French snowboard Cross Cup.

In a remarkable performance, Gillings beat Olympic silver medallist Deborah Anthonioz to claim third place, just 1.5 seconds behind Olympic champion Maelle Ricker.

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