Team GB blow as gold medallist PULLS OUT minutes before Olympic 2024 final and says ‘not taking any risks’
HARRY CHARLES has withdrawn from the individual showjumping final at the eleventh hour.
Charles was set to be one of THREE Brits competing in Tuesday morning’s final in Paris.
But an injury to his horse, Romeo 88, has scuppered his bid to win individual Olympic gold.
A heartbroken Charles wrote on Instagram: “Unfortunately, me and Romeo will not start the individual final today in pairs.
“After a small overreach yesterday he is not quite the 110% that he has been the whole games, so we are not taking any risks.
“Maybe I’m a little disappointed but honestly not really!
“He has given me so much and took me beyond my dreams.
“We’re leaving Paris with a gold medal and more importantly a happy Romeo, so that’s way more than enough for me!”
Team GB’s hopes of winning gold in the individual final now rest on the shoulders of veterans Ben Maher and Scott Brash.
And a heartbroken Charles has wished his team-mates the best of luck ahead of the event.
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He continued: “@teamgb have a great shot at the medals with two of the best today in Scott and Ben.
“So we will be on the sidelines cheering them on.”
A crestfallen Charles – who won team jumping gold earlier during the Games – was inundated with messages of support from his followers.
One wrote: “Ultimate respect for putting Romeo first, as it always should be.
“You have both been incredible and should be so proud.”
Another said: “Gutted for you but unbelievable performances all week. Well done Olympic champions.”
And another said: “Knowing your horse and showing this level of horsemanship at an important event of a lifetime like this is absolutely amazing to see.
“Sending all my love from California!”
One remarked: “That’s a shame but you guys have been fabulous these games and have already shown your class.
“And always putting the horse first too – respect.”
Another chimed in: “Great to see you putting Romeo first, but gutted not to see you both take on the final after the way he’s been jumping!”
Romeo 88’s owner, Ann Thompson, also weighed in.
She said: “As Romeo’s owner, there are not words to explain my gratitude for Harry putting my horse before himself.
“A sign of a real horseman. Romeo had plans to leave more of himself in Versailles but we go home with team Gold.
“What a horse.”