Stockdale, who competed for Britain at the 2008 Beijing Games, will be 52 in 2016 - but can take heart from the achievement of his erstwhile 54-year-old colleague Nick Skelton, who was one of the four team gold medallists in London this summer.

The Northamptonshire rider just missed out on selection for London 2012 after recovering his injury, and insists the disappointment has heightened his Olympic ambition.

"I'll be 52, younger than 50 per cent of the team which won a gold medal at this year's Games, so it's a realistic aim," he said.

Stockdale was a spectator as the team of Peter Charles, Scott Brash, Nick Skelton and Ben Maher won gold in Greenwich Park in August.

Nick Skelton, Ben Maher, Scott Brash and Peter Charles of Great Britain won their first team Olympic gold medal in 60 years

"I'm not going to lie and say it was just totally brilliant, it wasn't," said Stockdale.

"It was a strange moment, because it was one of those moments when I really wished it was me - but I was pleased for the lads, they did a great job, and that's how sport is, there's a very fine line between success and failure.

"I'm very lucky to be walking and still fighting, and if anything it has ignited the flames.

"I've invested in a new horse for Rio, and a really good one.

"He could be one of the best horses I've ever had and that's really exciting."

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