Katja Weimann withdraws from Rio nomination

Katja Weimann has advised Equestrian Australia that she will not be contesting nomination for the Eventing Team for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games due to a minor injury sustained to her horse BP Flamboyant.

Weimann was planning to take Flamboyant to Europe where the pair was to compete at Luhmuhlen CCI4*, but following the horse’s final veterinary assessment on Monday, Weimann made the decision to withdraw the horse from Rio contention.

“We were due to leave for Europe on Wednesday and as part of Flynn’s (BP Flamboyant) final veterinary assessment we discovered a small injury,” said Weimann. “He will make a full recovery, it is just unfortunate that his injury has been sustained at this crucial time.

“It’s disappointing that I won’t get the chance to pursue Olympic selection but Flynn is still a young horse and it is not worth risking his long-term future.

“I want to thank everyone who has supported my Rio campaign. While I’m no longer in the running for the 2016 Olympic Games, I hope to be able to campaign for the 2018 World Equestrian Games in Bromont and Tokyo 2020.  

“I also want to wish my fellow competitors the best of luck as they pursue selection for Rio.”

Weimann hosted a fundraising event on the weekend and was overwhelmed by the support of the local equestrian community.

“I am so grateful for the generosity of the local equestrian community and I want to assure everyone who has made a financial contribution to my Rio fundraising campaign that we’ll be getting in touch to discuss what happens with their donation,” said Weimann.

Read Katja's full statement on her Facebook page