The parties involved in the Irish Sailing Association's original nomination can feel vindicated with their decision, as it has been upheld by the Olympic Council of Ireland.
In a statement released today, the ISA said:
"Following an appeal hearing, the Olympic Council of Ireland (OCI) has recommended that the ISA confirm the nomination of Peter OíLeary & Stephen Milne to represent Ireland in the 2008 Olympic Games in the Star class.
"The ISA would like to acknowledge the thorough and professional manner in which the OCI has managed this Appeal."
The decision will hopefully mean that the nominees can now focus on their sailing. Peter O'Leary and Stephen Milne left for China last Sunday, the day after the appeal hearing, to continue their training at the Qingdao venue.
However, there is yet room for a further appeal to a higher power, with the team of Max Treacy and Anthony Shanks, who appealed the ISA nomination, entitled to take their dispute to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Anthony Shanks told Afloat.ie tonight that he was 'mystified and shocked' at the decision. He said the pair would be taking the weekend to think about their options before consulting their legal team early next week on how best to proceed.
He would not confirm whether or not they will continue with the appeal, saying only: "It would not be fair to pre-empt the judgement of our legal team."
