"Having London 2012 coming up is a huge bonus for our sport,” said Townend, who - air travel permitting - is due to seek the elusive Rolex Grand Slam this week by adding the Kentucky event to his previous victories at Badminton and Burghley – a feat only managed once before, by compatriot Pippa Funnell in 2003.

"I know there’s been a lot of controversy about holding the equestrian events in Greenwich Park, but I think it’s going to be fantastic for local people," he added during an exclusive interview with insidethegames.

"They will be able to step outside their front door and watch a really great event.

"It’s a big opportunity for us to explain what we do to a new audience.

"I can’t think of a more exciting sport to be watching on a nice sunny day, whether you are interested in horses or not.

"Obviously if my current horse Ashdale Cruise Master develops as we hope he will, and I am fit and in form, we will be going for the gold in London.

"This horse has got all the talent in the world, and all the quality you need to bring home the gold medal.

"A horse has got to be a winner in itself, otherwise there’s no point in continuing with it.

"People have questioned whether horses are made to do this sport.

"If they don’t want to do it, believe me, they don’t do it.

"Ashdale Cruise is a complete and utter athlete, he’s got great movement in the dressage, a good turn of speed and he’s a very careful and good jumper.

"He finds life very, very easy.

"Riding in big events like Badminton and Burghley in front of big crowds is an ideal preparation for the Olympics.

"Last year at Badminton when I was in with a chance of winning I remember saying to myself ‘What am I going to feel like on the final day?

"'How am I going to feel if I knock two fences down and lose the lead?’

"But when I was actually competing I was thinking to myself ‘Why are you so relaxed?

"You shouldn’t be.’

"But it obviously worked for me on the day.

"And I am really looking forward to London 2012."

To read the full interview with Townend click here.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


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