The New Zealand men's four will not be competing in the rowing competition at the Rio Olympics.
The men's four - Anthony Allen, Patrick Mcinnes, Axel Dickinson and Drikus Conradie - were on standby for Rio but won't be going to the Games. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Rowing's world governing body gave Russia the option of forming a four from the athletes they allowed to attend the games and Rowing New Zealand says the Russians have decided to take up that option.
The New Zealand four was the next in line to fill the last spot.
Rowing New Zealand's chief executive Simon Peterson says this is the end of the campaign for the four as there is no legal process to entertain and given the time lines its the best decision.
Peterson says he's happy with the stance the world governing body took in banning four of the five Russian crews but not in allowing them to cobble together a fifth crew.
He says they're disappointed FISA gave the Russians dispensation to change more than 50 percent of a crew in a boat to allow them to put together a four.
Peterson says the athletes are respectful of the decisions that have been made but are also disappointed they won't be going to Rio.
New Zealand will have 11 crews competing at the Olympics.
-RNZ
