Doping scandal spoils party, casts doubt on equestian future

The Olympic equestrian events, meant to include Hong Kong in China’s coming-out party, reeled from success to scandal as doping again cast doubt on the future of elite horse sports in the Games.

The suspension of four riders from the grand finale show jumping contest, after their horses tested positive for a banned substance, pointed to the possibility of systemic doping in the sport.

The incident resurrected the spectre of Athens in 2004 and Sydney in 2000, when show jumping team and individual medals were re-allocated due to doping.

It has also again raised questions about the continued inclusion of elite horse sports — which cost more money and attract more competitors than any other Olympic sport — in the Games.

Australian Olympic Committee chief John Coates, who is also an International Olympic Committee member, said he was aware the International Equestrian Federation was prepared to take a strong stand on the doping of horses.

“I think there were incidents in Athens which cost medals and it relates really to the cruelty aspect I think rather than performance enhancing as I understand it,” he said.

“It’s pleasing that the International Equestrian Federation has prohibited drugs and that that’s being enforced.”

While announcing the suspensions last week — Bernardo Alves of Brazil, Christian Ahlmann of Germany, Denis Lynch of Ireland and Tony Andre Hansen of Norway — Sven Holmberg, head of the FEI’s jumping committee, noted all the horses had tested positive for the same substance.

“This is certainly a serious blow to the sport and we are well aware of the possible implications for the sport and its position in the Olympics,” he said.

“The four cases tested positive for the same substance. I don’t know if we can say it’s a trend but it contributes to the seriousness of the case.”

Hong Kong leaders who had hoped these events would allow them to bask in a little reflected Olympic glory will be angry and disappointed at the events.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) spent about $US150 million ($A173.19 million) on these events after Beijing passed them on to the former British colony, along with a little political kudos, because of Chinese quarantine issues.

While most facilities revert to the racing industry, the legacy officials said the Olympics would leave behind has dissolved.

Horse sports, never popular in Hong Kong, look dirty and show jumping looks cruel.

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© 2008 AFP