Shocked Cian wants to tell ‘the truth’
Following my statement on Friday October 8th, I have today, Sunday 10th October, had the chance to discuss in detail with my vet, the positive test taken from my Olympic horse.
As my vet, Mr Sheeran explains, it is his standard procedure to give a mild sedative to a horse during a period of rest and recuperation. This is purely in the best interests of the horse, so that it will not be too fresh and further injure itself, and in no way enhances or improves performance.
While it is not the norm, it is also not unusual for horses from various categories of equestrian competition to test positive following a competition or race.
I have been involved in show jumping since I was 14, and the first time that this ever happened to me was on 30th July of this year when I was notified that my horse, Landliebe gave a positive sample. I have never questioned or had cause to question the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) and their testing procedures, and accepted fully their A sample test not withstanding that I was fully entitled to query this and ask for a B sample check.
I merely gave the Federation my explanation that the animal was treated for colic while in transit to Rome and stabled in Munich, out of my direct control, believing genuinely that this must have been the reason for the positive result.
However, I was first notified on Thursday last, October 7th, that my Olympic horse had tested positive, and at the exact same time I received from the FEI the final sanction regarding Landliebe, which was that she must forfeit the three classes she won in Rome, but that no ban or suspension was being issued as they accepted my explanation. It became apparent to me that both cases were linked. My vet Mr Sheeran had treated both horses with the same medication well over a month prior to competition.
This is in no way a performance enhancer and certainly is not something which would be used if one were in any way trying to cheat.
Obviously all this news has come as a major shock to me, and I am making this statement to make everyone aware of the complete truth, and I fully intend to put the case forward to the FEI.
I am obviously devastated with the result not just for myself, but also for my owners, sponsors and particularly for the people of Ireland and my legion of supporters and well-wishers.
