By Duncan Mackay

Emma Snowsill_with_Olympic_gold_medal_Beijing_2008June 14 - Emma Snowsill has given up her attempt to defend her Olympic triathlon title in London after her appeal against her exclusion from Australia's team for London 2012 failed. 


The three-times world champion, who won gold in Beijing by more than a minute, missed out on the team for London with Beijing bronze medallist Emma Moffatt, Emma Jackson and Erin Densham selected instead.

The 30-year-old's appeal, on largely technical grounds, with the Olympic Appeals Tribunal concluded that "there was always going to be one exceptional athlete disappointed in the outcome."

"Whilst I am upset with the outcome, I have to respect the decision of the tribunal and will not be pursuing the matter further," Snowsill said.

Snowsill gave evidence via teleconference from her training base in Germany.

"I would like to again apologise to those affected by my appeal and to thank the other athletes for their discretion in the matter," said Snowsill after the decision was announced.

"My appeal was never a criticism of their abilities and I sincerely wish them all the best for their preparations and performances in London."

Tribunal chairman David Grace QC said the Triathlon Australia selectors faced a difficult choice between Snowsill, Densham and Jackson for the final two spots and one "exceptional athlete" had to be disappointed.

The women's triathlon at the London Olympics will take place in Hyde Park on August 4.

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