‘Storm in a teacup’: board member resigns over Olympic rider’s mankini evaluate

The chairman of Equestrian Australia’s (EA) integrity committee has resigned over the way by which the organisation handled the “storm in a teacup” attributable to Shane Rose’s carrying a mankini in a elaborate costume class.

H&H reported yesterday (19 February) that Olympic medal-winning eventer Shane had been quickly stood down from competitors months earlier than the Paris Olympics, whereas EA reviewed a grievance about his costume in an eventers versus showjumpers leaping competitors.

1000’s of individuals signed a petition in assist of Shane, and EA introduced yesterday its evaluate had concluded, discovering Shane had not breached EA and high-performance codes of conduct.

However yesterday Tim Palmer, EA board member and integrity committee chair, posted a video on social media asserting his resignation.

“I’d wish to make it clear I totally assist Shane and don’t agree with the way this trivial scenario has been dealt with,” he mentioned. “At no level was the difficulty dropped at my consideration earlier than Shane was stood down.

“I consider we should always work on the precept of harmless till confirmed responsible. And in relation to those particular allegations, I need to be clear: Shane wasn’t accused of something critical, similar to mistreating a horse or dishonest, misappropriating funds or abuse – however reasonably a easy matter of decorum. I’ve no downside with the best way he dressed throughout a elaborate costume competitors.”

Mr Palmer mentioned there was “clearly a disconnect” between himself and the place EA took.

“Due to this fact I’ve tendered my resignation from the board, efficient instantly,” he mentioned. “Hopefully this storm in a teacup is shut down pretty rapidly and with out additional delay, and permits Shane to deal with making ready for the Paris Olympics. Greatest needs to Shane.”

An EA spokesman instructed H&H: “Equestrian Australia has a really succesful board that we’re assured will proceed to steer the game via to Paris and past. We thank Mr Palmer for his contribution and want him properly for his future endeavours.”

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H&H information editor

Eleanor is an skilled journalist who spent over eight years working for native and nationwide newspapers earlier than becoming a member of H&H as information editor in March 2016. Enthusiastic about equine welfare and exposing the reality, Eleanor has reported on all features of the trade, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage guidelines to mules. Her sport of selection is showjumping, by which she competes her personal horses, and she or he additionally enjoys reporting at native leaping exhibits via to worldwide championships.