HARVEY Smith today delivered a resounding thumbs up to Accrington's Olympic showjumping hopeful, Geoff Billington.

The man more renowned for sticking two fingers up to British team officials believes Billington is Britain's best chance for gold as the equestrian Games start tonight.

"It's Otto is the best horse going assessed Smith," said Smith.

"He has more scope and ability than any of the others. Geoff is a seasoned campaigner who's been around the circuits.

"He has plenty of experience, plenty of mileage and I think that's very important.

"All four members of the British team have experienced the big event. I rate their chances of a medal quite good.

"I think our best chance of an individual medal rests with Geoff Billington."

The heat and humidity in Atlanta will no doubt be a factor.

But Smith believes that the horses will cope with the conditions.

"It hasn't bothered the eventers so it won't bother the show jumpers" he said. "This is an explosive event, the heat won't bother the horses at all."

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