Goodison will not rule out Rio tilt

The 34-year-old went into London 2012 as one of the favourites to top the podium as he had in China four years ago.

However, a back injury picked up in the second race of the regatta put paid to his medal hopes as he fought on defiantly to finish seventh overall.

Goodison, who came off the water in tears a week ago, remained philosophical after the end of racing yesterday.

“It is just frustrating when you feel you’re in the shape of your life and sailing the best you have done in strong breeze to then have this injury stop you going on to see what that meant,” he said.

“I guess we’ll never know what it would’ve meant and that is the frustrating thing for me.

“I am sure my back will get alright. It is just one of those things, unfortunately, that needs resting and then you move on.

“The Olympics is so special to me. Every four years it is a massive thing and it is one thing I am very passionate about.

“I will go away, think about what we’re going to do over the next four years and make a plan. I love the Olympics and would love to do it again.”

If he is to return for the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games, Goodison doubts it will be in the new mixed multihull class alongside long-term girlfriend Saskia Clark, who is competing in the women’s 470.

“That has put a smile on my face,” he said. “We have tried sailing together before and it generally ends up in not doing so well for our relationship. Never say never, but I am not sure that is going to happen.”

Goodison says he will now take up the role of cheerleader for British team for the rest of the regatta.

Australian Tom Slingsby, who finished 22nd in Beijing, won gold. Pavlos Kontides took silver to become the first Cypriot athlete ever to win an Olympic medal and bronze went to Sweden’s Rasmus Myrgren.