Trainer Bob McDonald today denied an allegation involving sexual misconduct with a minor in 1973, following a decision by the U.S. Center for SafeSport that resulted in a lifetime ban from the U.S. Equestrian Federation.
The husband of U.S. dressage technical advisor Debbie McDonald is appealing in an effort to get the decision overturned through arbitration.
“It is beyond heartbreaking to see the reputation that I have painstakingly built throughout my career be tarnished by an allegation of misconduct from 47 years ago,” stated Bob, who became involved as a professional in the hunter/jumper industry more than half a century ago.
SafeSport is the “exclusive authority” investigating and prosecuting allegations of sexual abuse within Olympic and Paralympic sport.
Bob’s punishment means he is prohibited from participating in any activities or competitions licensed, endorsed or sponsored by the USEF. The sanction prohibits him from going to shows, which he often attends with his wife of 42 years, who once was the USA’s top dressage rider.
Bob McDonald
He noted it is “gut-wrenching” to watch “my loved ones being dragged through this as well. It is a terrible reality that we are living in a time when allegations alone would lead to the imposition of such a harsh public sanction.
“Unfortunately, the system in place does not allow for individuals to be given the opportunity to effectively defend any of the allegations prior to a ban, which is why I have requested for an independent arbitration on the matter.”
He added, “It would be inappropriate of me to comment more, other than to simply say that I categorically deny the allegations that have been made against me.
“Throughout my 50-plus year career in the sport, I have always acted in a professional and respectful manner towards all individuals that I have come in contact with, which is why I am shocked at the allegations that were made.
“While it is paramount for the sport to have a thoughtful and thorough avenue for our riders and trainers to address complaints and areas of concern, it is of equal importance that the process be fair and balanced,” Bob continued.
“That certainly has not been the case here. I am looking forward to the opportunity to present the facts and a fair defense at an independent arbitration. I stand firm on the reputation I have built over half a century and am confident that I will be fully exonerated when the arbitration is complete.”
Debbie is beloved, known for being as generous and warm-hearted as she is talented. Bob has guided her career and played an enormous and supportive role in her success.
Many people have come to Bob’s defense on social media, and he responded by saying, “I am humbled by the outpouring of support that Debbie and I have received during these past few days. It would be impossible to deal with this matter without your warm kindness and I wanted to thank you all for it. Your support has carried us the last couple of days and will continue to do so.”
On Facebook, dressage riders Laura Graves and Lauren Sammis called for change in the way SafeSport handles its cases.
“SafeSport has to go,” said Lauren, a Pan American Games team gold and individual silver medalist.
“Without due process, it is literally a witch hunt.”
Laura, who was trained by Debbie and is the only U.S. dressage rider to have been ranked number one in the world, noted, “I have spent a great deal of time with Bob and he has always been a supportive part of my career. I’m heartbroken to see them go through this.
“What can we do?” asked the Olympic team bronze medalist.
A group called Athletes for Equity in Sport, which involves representatives from other sports as well as equestrian, is seeking “to reform amateur sports’ disciplinary processes as well as the current inequity in SafeSport policy and procedures.”
Prominent equestrians who have gone through the SafeSport process and been banned include legendary hunter/jumper trainer George Morris and American Grand Prix Association Rider of the Year Rob Gage, who committed suicide last year.
The McDonalds, who have a son and one grandchild, worked together even before they were married. Debbie originally was a hunter rider but after a jumping accident in which she was badly injured, Bob suggested she switch to dressage.
Known for being a great spotter of equine talent, Bob found the promising Hanoverian Brentina. She was purchased by Parry and Peggy Thomas, who were clients of Bob’s and Debbie got the ride on the chestnut mare.
Debbie and Bob McDonald with Brentina at her retirement in Las Vegas. (Photo © 2009 by Nancy Jaffer)
Debbie and Brentina rose to become the top U.S. combination in dressage before the turn of the century, taking double gold at the 1999 Pan American Games and going on to be part of the silver medal team at the 2002 FEI World Equestrian Games. They also were on the bronze medal team at the 2004 Olympics, along with earning many other honors. Debbie was the first U.S. rider to win the FEI World Cup Dressage title.
