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Shane Rose at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics
Photo:
Behrouz Mehri / AFP
A humorous show ride in the so-called "Borat swimsuit" could possibly cost Australia's show jumping star Shane Rose his participation in the Olympic Games in Paris. The Australian Equestrian Federation has launched an investigation into the three-time Olympic medalist after receiving complaints about an appearance by the 50-year-old at an event on February 11. Rose may now face a ban.
»Like every athlete, Shane is bound by the Code of Conduct and the Athlete Agreement. We are committed to addressing the complaints and are investigating the matter," Equestrian Australia said in a statement. "However, Shane has not been suspended or subjected to any other sanctions. However, as is usual, he has been suspended from competition for the duration of the review.”
Rose won Olympic medals in Beijing, Rio and Tokyo
Rose had ridden at the Wallaby Hill Extravaganza show tournament in Robertson, New South Wales in three different costumes - in a gorilla costume, as a "Duffman" (a beer testimonial from the "Simpsons") and in a "Mankini", a neon-colored one and very tight bathing one-piece that leaves both buttocks exposed. The interesting piece of clothing became famous thanks to the fictional character Borat by the comedian and actor Sacha Baron Cohen. Rose also shared humorous pictures of his appearance on his social media accounts.
"I'm really sorry if I offended anyone with this," Rose wrote on Facebook: "I hope that the results of the investigation will allow me to return to competition and continue my path to the Olympic Games."
Rose won silver in the team competition for Australia at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing and 2021 in Tokyo, as well as bronze with the team in 2016 in Rio de Janeiro.
What could have a mitigating effect on the punishment: the half-naked Rose also wore a helmet as required by law.
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