Judoka Ashley McKenzie aims to build on Olympic debut

Willesden judoka Ashley McKenzie is aiming to build on his performance following defeat on his Olympic debut.

The 23-year-old was knocked out in the first round of the men's -60kg category, losing to eventual silver-medallist Hiroaki Hiraoka by ippon.

He told BBC London 94.9: "I did have a tough draw, but to be a champion you've got to beat the best.

"I've got to carry on doing my hard work and hopefully I can take my dream on to Rio de Janeiro [in 2016]."

He added: "It doesn't help that he went on to win silver.

"I was looking to shock him in front of the home crowd, but unfortunately I didn't."

McKenzie says his reception from the British crowd at the ExCel Arena in east London will stay with him for the rest of his career.

"There was so much support behind me and I thank everyone who was there," he continued.

"There were near enough 10,000 people chanting my name and that, on it's own, was a dream come true, knowing that I made it and I'm competing for Great Britain.

"I never knew there were so many people who knew me.

"It's the biggest event I've ever been in. That's what makes the Games special."