Burgess Cleared to Return to Pool

As expected, the U.S. Olympic Committee rejected swimmer Ron Karnaugh’s request for disciplinary sanctions against American rival Greg Burgess. Potential penalties could have ranged from Burgess’ dismissal from the squad to the elimination of certain privileges at the Games.

Karnaugh contended Burgess had violated the USOC’s code of conduct after he pleaded no contest to the misdemeanor of public drinking and supplying alcohol to a minor in March. Despite the USOC’s action, the matter isn’t quite over because Karnaugh followed through on his intention to file an appeal with the American Arbitration Assn.

“He [Burgess] was elated, and said, ‘Now I can concentrate on training,’ ” said Burgess’ attorney, Hank Coxe III of Jacksonville, Fla. “But that was before he knew about arbitration. It’s just disappointing.”

Burgess, however, had a sense his legal problems were not over.

“I’m relieved it’s all over from the USOC standpoint,” he told the Florida Times-Union. “I can’t imagine what Karnaugh will do next. I’m sure he’ll try something. I don’t imagine him stopping now.

“I don’t feel vindicated because my name has been dragged out all over the country.”

Several of Burgess’ Olympic teammates who were competing last weekend at a meet in Santa Clara, Calif., were incredulous that the matter had been pursued to this extent. If Burgess had been dismissed, Karnaugh, as the top alternate, would have replaced him in the 200-meter individual medley.

“My support is with Greg Burgess,” team captain Jeff Rouse said.