The former St Marys resident, 21, is off to the Beijing Olympics and will represent Australia in the 54-kilogram bantamweight division.

``I'm over the moon words can't describe it,'' Boyd told the Star.

``It feels like a dream at the moment.

``When I look in the mirror, I don't see anyone different, I'm still the same person. But it's really exciting that my hard work has paid off.''

He had to put up a tough fight to be selected for the Olympic team.

Boyd had to win gold at the Oceania titles and he did just that, defeating his Australian A-team opponent along the way to force his way into the squad.

Boyd flew to Croatia yesterday to begin his preparation in the lead-up to Beijing.

Fights are also planned in Germany and the Czech Republic.

``I hope to win a medal at one of those tournaments,'' he said.

Boyd is in his second year at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra.

``I have learned much more down here than I would have back home,'' he said.

``I've gone on overseas trips, which has given me more competitive experience.''

He competed at the world titles in the US last year, where he was knocked out in the first round and lost to the fighter who went on to win the title.

Boyd took up boxing 10 years ago after he was deemed too small to play rugby league.

``It's a one-on-one sport where no one else takes the credit for your hard work.''

Boyd said he believed winning an Olympic medal was not out of the question.

Australia has never won a Olympic gold medal in boxing.

``My goal is to be the best boxer I can possibly be,'' he said.