Harlesden kayaker Tony Greyson-Newman wants to emulate evergreen boxer Bernard Hopkins to achieve his dream of competing in next year’s Olympics in Rio de Janiero.

The 47-year-old Jamaican, who specialises in sprint kayaking, says Hopkins’ success – the American became a triple world champion at the age of 48 in 2013 – has inspired him to achieve his own goals after only picking up the sport and taking to the water in 2012.

Greyson-Newman will be competing in various competitions between now and June 2016 in a bid to qualify for next summer’s Olympics in Rio.

He told the Times: “Bernard Hopkins’ success really inspires me. Age is not really the issue, it’s what you do with yourself. People get old from the day they are born, but ageing is something different.

“I feel like there’s a lot more to come from me, and I’ll be doing my utmost to secure qualification for Rio next year. That really would be a dream come true for me.”

Greyson-Newman – who was previously involved in martial arts at national and international level – recently travelled to Jamaica and took time out to teach enthusiastic young rowers at Kingston Rowing Club.

He added: “What was interesting about Jamaica is that it wasn’t just the opportunity to represent them, but also the chance to put the country on the map and pave the way for generations to come that are also interested in the sport. I feel it’s my responsibility to inspire them too.”