OLYMPIC hopefuls are hoping to inspire a new generation of sailors with their bid for 2016.

Weymouth duo Alex Tobutt and Stuart Appleby were inspired by London 2012 to make their Olympic dreams come true and are running a self-funded campaign for Rio 2016.

The pair, aged 33 and 35 respectively, decided it was a case of now or never to achieve their dream of sailing glory.

They have already started their training for Rio 2016 in the 49er class.

Weymouth College has teamed up with the duo and will be boosting their battle for selection to Team GB by helping with rescue crews and safety boats to support their training while in Weymouth.

In return the duo have been speaking to outdoor education and sport students about their experiences and acting as ambassadors for the college to promote physical activity.

They recently gave a talk and practical session to the outdoor education instructors and students, discussing the commitment it takes to compete at a high level whilst showing off their Olympic class boat as part of the legacy from the 2012 Games.

Adventure lecturer at Weymouth College, Alex Sergison, said: “We feel it’s really important to back these guys and their efforts to compete in Rio, in 2016.

“They are providing great coaching and proving an inspiration to young people studying sport and outdoor education at the College.”

To find out more about Alex and Stuart, their plans for Rio 2016 or to support their training for the Olympics email alexstuartsailing@gmail.com