Oliver Townend to begin London Olympics bid at Burghley

Townend will ride Carousel Quest at the Burghley Horse Trials

Great Britain's Oliver Townend will use the defence of his Burghley title to prepare for the 2012 Olympic Games.

"Next year is going to be very important in terms of qualification for the London Olympics," said Townend.

"It's in everyone's interests here (in Britain) to prepare well over the coming winter."

Shropshire-based Townend, who has withdrawn from the GB squad reserve list for next month's World Games, will ride at Burghley aboard Carousel Quest.

That is the same grey that took him to glory 12 months ago, in a year when he also took the Badminton title and will be the only horse going to Burghley from his yard near Ellesmere.

"I was going to take Ashdale Cruise Master as well but decided against that," added Townend.

"He has done enough this season and it is far more important that he is rested. After all, he is going to be an important horse for me in the next couple of years."