The Hong Kong Equestrian Federation yesterday bemoaned the bad luck that forced Jennifer Lee out of the Olympic equestrian events.
Lee's dream of competing in the Games was shattered after her horse, Mr Burns, was withdrawn as the Hong Kong showjumpers were preparing to leave Belgium.
'This is terrible news and unbelievably bad luck,' federation president Simon Ip Sik-on said. 'It must be devastating for Jennifer, especially as she has just renounced her US passport. It is, of course, a major setback for our team, but let's hope that all the other horses stay sound.'
Hong Kong will still be able to compete in the team competition at Sha Tin next month - and as individuals - but Lee's absence means a score in the team competition cannot be dropped. The top three results combine for the team's score.
After Mr Burns required veterinary treatment, Lee withdrew on Sunday night. The Hong Kong horses will arrive next Monday.
'She is a very determined rider,' said Hong Kong Jockey Club equestrian manager Stuart Mitchell, who worked with Lee at Beas River. 'She basically threw her life out there for it, moving to Germany with her kids.'
