The biggest controversy in the equestrian world has been resolved.
Following the controversy over Australian Olympian Shane Rose’s attire, Australia’s sports governing body has said it will not suspend the two-time silver medalist.
Any form of suspension could have a serious impact on his hopes of competing at a fourth Olympics in Paris later this year.
Rose was absent from the Wallaby Hill Extravaganza showjumping costume event wearing a Borat-style mankini, after Equine Australia and Sport Integrity Australia launched a review of the attire. I apologized.
Equestrian Australian CEO Darren Gotcher said in a statement: “After a thorough review of this incident and consultation with relevant parties, Equestrian Australia has confirmed that Shane Rose’s Code of Conduct We have confirmed that there were no violations.”
“Shane has reflected on this incident, apologized and understands the high standards expected of everyone involved in our high performance program. This matter has been resolved and Shane and his teammates will continue to qualify for Paris.” I look forward to concentrating on that.”
Rose won two silver medals at the 2008 and 2020 Olympics, and a bronze medal in 2016.
The Olympic team will be decided in June.
In his own statement released Monday, Mr. Rose expressed gratitude for the support he has received since the incident occurred earlier this month.
“I am delighted that Equestrian Australia has completed its review and has been cleared to return and continue working towards the Paris Olympics,” he said. “The support and interest in this story has been unlike anything I have experienced before. I can now concentrate on the job at hand and promote Australian equestrian athletes in the media for a more positive cause, an Olympic gold medal. It’s time to pick it up. Thank you again. The support has been tremendous and I’m very grateful.”
While this absurd controversy caused quite a stir and briefly jeopardized Rose’s Olympic aspirations, some good came out of it.
Agricultural machinery supplier Boral Kubota has offered to donate mankinis to everyone attending next year’s event and A$100 to support men’s health who are “going beyond Shane”. CNN reported.
