Statement by Paul Cargill Chairman of EA Regarding Dressage Team

Equestrian Australia (EA) rejects the false and unfounded allegations that have been made in relation to the selection of the Dressage Team chosen to represent Australia at the 2012 London Olympic Games and more particularly, the failure to select Ms Hayley Beresford.

The selection of the Dressage team was referred to an independent Appeals Tribunal and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), with both appeals dismissed.

“The dismissal of both of Beresford’s appeals necessarily confirmed that the original selections stood and recent performances outcomes are simply not able to be taken into account,” said EA Chairman Paul Cargill.  

“EA fully supports its Dressage Team, its selectors and its team officials and stands right behind them. 

“We dismiss all allegations made, especially those that are unsourced and are not accompanied by anything other than a personal view of what should have been. 

“Ms Beresford has had the opportunity to put her case before two appellate bodies and she has not succeeded with either. 

“It is now time for our selected athletes to get on with their job and do their talking where it counts, at Greenwich Park,” said Mr Cargill.

The decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport is final, with the findings to be released in the coming days.