by Alex Hoad

Despite it being his fourth Games, Team GB eventer William Fox-Pitt says he is particularly excited to be part of the British team competing at a home Olympics.

The World No1 is appearing on the biggest stage for the fourth time, having debuted in Atlanta in 1996, and is part of the five-strong eventing team which will compete at a new venue at Greenwich Park.

The riders walked around all 28 fences of the 6km cross-country course for the first time on Thursday and the course drew praise from the Cantebury-raised star.

The 43-year-old - who claimed team silver in Athens and a bronze four years ago in Beijing - will ride the final stage of the team pursuit, with Nicola Wilson leading off the team, Mary King going second, Zara Phillips third and Tina Cook fourth.

Fox-Pitt (pictured) said: "We feel incredibly lucky to be here. It’s very exciting to be in the Olympic Village and to be part of the British team, and not just the British equestrian team.

"To have the venue in London will bring equestrian to a wider audience and particularly to the east end of London and let’s hope a lot of people will enjoy it."

Meanwhile Fox-Pitt’s dressage is scheduled to take place at 4.12pm on Sunday with Wilson going off at 11.20am on Saturday and Mary King competing at 2.30pm that afternoon.

Phillips will begin at 10.16am on Sunday with Cook underway at 12.54pm.

The Equestrian team will not be attending tonight’s Opening Ceremony, with team leader Will Connell explaining: "Team GB is here with a very professional body of athletes and the primary reason for coming to an Olympics is to deliver your personal bests.

"I’ve heard the Opening Ceremony is amazing, but the athletes have made the decision that they are putting competition first and they won’t be going.

"I hope that they return with medals round their necks to enjoy the Closing Ceremony."