The national Dutch doping authorities have found show jumping rider Bart Bles guilty of using prohibited substances at the last National Championships in April. For Bles this means he is currently suspended and loses his silver medal from the Dutch championships.
For Sanne Thijssen this is a step forward to the Silver medal while Sf-Equestrian rider, Jur Vrieling is now taking bronze.
"I've been foolish that one evening, this is incredibly stupid. I feel regretful towards the team letting them down. This should never have happened." states Bart Bles in an official release. How long Bles will be suspended is yet unknown. Currently it is compatriot Jack Ansems who will replace Bart Bles at the Nations Cup in Aachen.
Meanwhile sponsor: Sf-Equestrian has immediately suspended Bles from the team
SF Equestrian has been informed that during the doping control after the NK Jumping in Deurne in April, rider Bart Bles was found positive for the use of a substance that is on the list of human illicit substances.
As a result of the positive test, rider Bart Bles has been immediately suspended by SF Equestrian in accordance with the contractually agreed house rules with regard to all his activities and involvement with SF Equestrian. The well-being of the horses under the management of rider Bart Bles is guaranteed at all times.
SF Equestrian is completely surprised and shocked about the positive test of rider Bart Bles. Such a positive test in no way fits within the sport and the contractually agreed house rules with regard to which SF Equestrian has a strict zero-tolerance policy.Further information about the further and future consequences will be provided at a later date.