Team Canada general manager Scott Stevenson has insisted that the Commonwealth Games are not simply a "stepping stone" towards the Olympics in two years' time.

Mountain biking coach Ian Hughes earlier suggested that the team's main focus was already on Rio de Janeiro, but Stevenson believes that the Glasgow Games hold plenty of importance on their own.

Canada will also take part in the Pan American Games in 2015, and Stevenson is hopeful that having three major multi-sport events in as many years will help the team become accustomed to what is needed to succeed.

"We see these Games as a very important event – not just as a stepping stone. We're going to see some great competition, strong fields, and for some of the events we have the very best in the world here. Another thing to note is that the timing of these Games is perfect. Late July to early August is an excellent time to have the Games," he told reporters.

"The location as well is a real benefit - it's easy to get to and Glasgow is a great city. With the Toronto Pan American Games next year and then Rio, it's three Games back to back that are very important. If you can put multi-sport teams together three years in a row then you're going to be able to refine your processes, your team, who is the right staff, what's working and what isn't.

"There's a real opportunity. Where we are now, in July rather than October [as Delhi was], it fits very well with the competitive calendar. We don't need to worry about food, air quality or the transportation."

Meanwhile, Stevenson has also set his sights on Team Canada finishing third in the medal table this summer.