The Equestrian rider at the centre of an Olympic selection scandal has been suspended for testing positive to cocaine. Both showjumper Jamie Kermond and Equestrian Australia was made aware of the positive drug result just hours before the 36-year-old was due to leave the country for the Tokyo Games on Tuesday night. Kermond’s horse, Napa, is already in Japan.
The test was conducted by Sport Integrity Australia on June 26, 2021 and Kermond can now demand an analysis of his B sample. “Mr Kermond is prohibited from participating in any WADA compliant event, including the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, while the provisional suspension is in place,” Equestrian Australia wrote in a statement. “Under the Anti-Doping Policy, Mr Kermond now has the opportunity to have his B-sample analysed. “Equestrian Australia has spoken with Mr Kermond and support services will be offered to him.” The 36-year-old showjumper from Victoria was selected as one of three showjumpers on a nine-strong Australian equestrian team at the Tokyo Olympics. “Cocaine is prohibited In-Competition by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the Australian National Anti-Doping Policy 2021. Mr Kermond is prohibited from participating in any WADA compliant event, including the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, while the provisional suspension is in place.”
