Paget out of Olympics

8:19 am on 6 August 2016

Rio 2016 Olympics - Jock Paget has withdrawn from the Rio Olympics, forcing a last minute change to the New Zealand eventing team on the eve of the Games.

Jock Paget

Jock Paget Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Paget has withdrawn from the competition after his horse, Clifton Lush, cut his cheek in a stable accident.

The cut required suturing and the vets have been happy with his progress. Under expert supervision Clifton Lush has been kept in work and has been working well.

But despite the positive daily progress, it has been decided that the horse should be given further time to heal to make a full recovery.

"Obviously it is very disappointing for me and Clifton Lush's owners but we've decided this is best for the horse," said Paget.

"It's been a real team effort from the Rio 2016 Veterinary Hospital and our own vet Christiana Ober - they have all given Lush exceptional care and attention."

Paget's experience will be missed, with the rider among the team who won bronze at the London Games in 2012.

Tim Price and his horse Ringwood Sky Boy will join his wife Jonelle, Sir Mark Todd and Clark Johnstone on the team in place of Paget.

-RNZ