Dan Wallace, gold medallist at the Commonwealth Games, has been suspended by both British and Scottish swimming after pleading guilty to charges of drink driving.
24-year-old Wallace won the 400m individual medley at Glasgow 2014, famously shouting “For freedom” as he touched the wall in the Tollcross Pool. For the medal presentation, he wore a kilt.
The Edinburgh swimmer, who trains at Stirling University, has now been suspended from all national swimming programmes for three months.
Governing body Scottish Swimming said Wallace’s ban was due to “a violation of the athlete code of conduct”.
Wallace himself has issued an apology for his actions following his guilty plea.
“It is with much regret that I was found to be driving under the influence of alcohol,” he said.
“Not only have I let myself, my family and team-mates down I have put others at risk and I am profoundly sorry for my actions.
“I recognise that I am in a position of influence and this type of behaviour is not acceptable in any way, shape or form.
“I am now looking to rebuild trust in everyone who has supported me and put their faith in me and will do whatever it takes to come through this a better, stronger person. I am deeply sorry.
This is not the first time, however, that Wallace has run into trouble. He was arrested in the US while studying at the University of Florida for urinating on a police car. He was suspended indefinitely from the swimming team and his place in the 2014 Commonwealth Games was placed in doubt.
He has now signed a letter of intent, summarising his commitment to work with necessary support systems, and reaffirming his responsibility as an athlete to British Swimming, Scottish Swimming and the University of Sterling.
Chris Spice, British Swimming National Performance Director and Ally Whike, Scottish Swimming Director of Performance have issued a statement saying “We can confirm that Dan Wallace has been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. This is clearly unacceptable behaviour from Dan and we are disappointed by his actions.
“Dan has publicly acknowledged the seriousness of his mistake and is accepting of the consequences that must follow. Together, we will now support him through this difficult period to try to get this young and talented man back on track.”
About Carl Millar
Carl Millar is a highly respected and experienced drink driving solicitor who is the principal of Millars Solicitors.
Carl has been a specialist in road traffic law for many years and represents clients from all walks of life and all over the Country. He is well known for the dogged defending of his clients and robust cross examination of police officers and exert witnesses.
With a wealth of expertise in motoring law Carl is well placed to provide advice over the phone and deal with all road traffic matters in a calm and professional way.
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