Australia to field individuals only after two were ruled out

One showjumper was suspended, while the alternate had already decided not to travel his horse to the Tokyo Games

- BECKY MURRAY

AUSTRALIAN showjumpers will compete individually in Tokyo as a rider was suspended and the reserve had already withdrawn.

Equestrian Australia (EA) suspended Jamie Kermond as he tested positive for a metabolite of cocaine in a test on 26 June. He had been selected on Oaks Constellation, with Edwina TopsAlexander on Identity Vitseroel and Katie Laurie on Casebrook Lomond. Alternate rider Rowan Willis had withdrawn Blue Movie on 9 July.

Jamie said it was “likely” the positive result was from a “single recreational use” of the drug, and had no connections with sport. He added he was “truly sorry”.

The suspension ruled Jamie out of Tokyo and it was unclear if Edwina and Katie would be allowed to compete as individuals. But on 23 July Australia was told this was allowed.

EA said the team was not disqualified after the suspension.