Champion Australian showjumper Shane Rose has been stood down from competition after controversy erupted over his outfit choice at an equestrian event in Sydney last weekend.
The three-time Olympic medallist donned a mankini at one point during the fancy dress event at Wallaby Hill, the Guardian reports.
Pictures from the event show Rose riding his horse in the barely-there outfit, popularised by the film Borat.
Rose posted photos from the event on social media, but they have since been taken down.
"I took part in this fancy dress competition with the aim of providing lighthearted entertainment for those in attendance," Rose said.
"If my costume/s offended anyone I am truly sorry as this was never my intention. I would like to apologise to anyone that I offended."
The 50-year-old also sported a gorilla suit and a costume of Simpsons character Duffman at different times.
Equestrian Australia said he hasn't been formally suspended, but has been stood down while they review the matter.
"With a bit of luck this will all be a bit of a laugh in a few days and we can all move on," Rose told the Sydney Morning Herald.
"I think I am a good person and I do a lot for the sport, and for people in different situations.
"I don't feel like I have done anything particularly bad.
"In hindsight, I should have rethought what I did but, at the time, I thought it was just a bit of fun."
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