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'Lame' Team GB horse withdrawn

13/08/2008

British equestrian competitor Michael Whitaker has been forced to withdraw from the Olympics after his horse was found to be lame.

Portofino 63 was withdrawn ahead of the horse inspection for Friday's team jumping event after developing a mystery complaint.

"The team veterinarian has carried out an extensive investigation but as yet has been unable to target the source of the problem," a statement from the British Olympic Association (BOA) said.

The 14-year-old bay mare had been "sound" during pre-export quarantine but developed the problem in Hong King in the last 48 hours.

Russel, ridden by Nick Skelton, comes into the four-strong squad as Team GB bids to add to the two equestrian bronzes won by the eventers yesterday.