Eric Lamaze has pulled out of consideration for Tokyo 2020 on health grounds ©Getty Images

Beijing 2008 gold medallist Eric Lamaze has announced he does not want to be considered for selection for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games on health grounds.

Lamaze published a statement confirming his intention to withdraw from consideration, with the 53-year-old one of five athletes named on a shortlist to compete for Canada in the showjumping events at the Games.

Lamaze said he has been undergoing treatment for a brain tumour for the past three years and is being supported by medical teams in Brussels and Paris.

Due to his condition and the ongoing state of emergency in Tokyo due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Lamaze said he had to consider the risks around attending the Games too high.

"My health is something that I take very seriously, and I’ve decided that Tokyo is not the best venue for me," said Lamaze.

"While my health is stable at the moment, there are several risk factors that have to be taken into consideration."

The lack of a travelling part to support Lamaze was among the reasons cited for pulling out of contention.

Eric Lamaze won a bronze medal in the individual showjumping event at Rio 2016 ©Getty Images
Eric Lamaze won a bronze medal in the individual showjumping event at Rio 2016 ©Getty Images

"I’ve always associated the Olympics with riding for the Canadian team," Lamaze went on to add.

"My success has been due to having my teammates there to pull together to be the best that we can be for our country.

"Having my owners there, my friends and fellow teammates, and all the fans is what makes the Olympics special for me.

"When you come into the stadium, and hear the fans screaming and see the Canadian flags waving, it raises you to another level.

"As a solo act, I cannot see myself finding the motivation to dig deep enough to pull off an individual medal.

"I cannot be a true competitor without my team.

"With all that we’ve lived through this past year, and what we are still seeing with so many people living through horrible situations both in Canada and around the world, I’m not sure I would even feel right winning a medal.

"The Olympics are a celebration of the athletes and I don’t think we’re going to have a true celebration in Tokyo."

Lamaze won the individual showjumping title at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, as well as winning silver in the team competition.

The Canadian team missed out on a bronze medal at Rio 2016 after a jump-off against Germany, which ultimately ended in the team finishing fourth.

Lamaze went on to secure a bronze medal in the individual event on Fine Lady 5.