Rio de Janeiro, Nov 1 (IANS): Olympic medal prospect Marcus D' Almeida hopes this week's Brazilian Archery Championships can kickstart his quest for gold at the Rio 2016 Games.

The 16-year-old has been dubbed archery's Neymar, who is currently Brazil's top footballer, after winning the silver medal at this year's Youth Olympics and World Cup, reports Xinhua.

Already 10th in the world rankings, the Brazilian says the scene of this year's national championships - Rio's world famous sambadrome - has made him even more eager for Olympic glory.

The epicentre of Rio's annual Carnival celebrations will also stage archery at the 2016 Games.

"I' ve been thinking about Rio 2016 since I joined the national team two years ago and competing here at the Sambadrome only increases this," D'Almeida told the Rio 2016 Olympic website.

"I've already thought about how the venue will be and imagined competing in the final here, celebrating a gold medal with a big party going on in the stands. Just thinking about the possibility of this gives me goosebumps."

D' Almeida says archery's profile in Brazil has been boosted by the Olympics, prompting improved conditions for local competitors.

"The situation has got a lot better since Rio won the right to stage the Olympic Games," he said.

"We have more visibility and investment and we have created a stronger structure, with a permanent national team and foreign coaches. It's our best chance to win an Olympic medal and I hope it comes, as an Olympic medal changes a sporting life."

The Rio 2016 Olympic Games archery competition will feature 128 competitors - 64 men and 64 women - in individual and team events.