Medal Re-Allocation From 2018’s FEI Young Rider European Championships
The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) has announced that they have been informed, by the FEI, that Harry Charles has been disqualified from last year’s Young Rider Championships in Fontainbleau, France.
British Showjumper, Charles, has been disqualified following positive blood tests for the controlled FEI substance, Lidocaine. The samples were taken following the Team Final at the French event from Charles’ ride Vivaldi du Dom.
The positive test results in automatic disqualification of all of Charles’ jumping efforts in the competition. Therefore, Charles has forfeited his individual gold medal and forced Team Great Britain into silver position, as Germany rightfully claims the gold.
Upon the announcement by the BEF, Nick Fellows, BEF Chief Executive commented;
This was a controlled medication substance not a doping substance, but it should not have been present in Harry’s horse at the time of competition. Of course it is desperately disappointing for Harry and the young rider team, but we accept the decision of the FEI and naturally uphold their zero tolerance in respect of the international Clean Sport policy which we also follow at a national level.”
Ian Graham, Cheif Executive of British Showjumping added that the Charles’ disqualification was a “wake-up call for everyone in the sport”, further highlighting the necessity of all athletes to ensure they “understand and adhere to the FEI Clean Sport policy” before they compete.
Charles also acknowledged the news, showing empathy for his fellow team mates;
Words can’t convey how really sad I am for my fellow team members having to receive the news that this has happened. I will speak to each of them individually and I just hope I can then put this behind me and move on”.
The full FEI statement can be found here.
Illustration: Harry Charles, used for illustration.
