University of Texas Swimmer Apologizes For Role In 'International Incident' Caused By American Athletes' Antics

AUSTIN, TX -- University of Texas at Austin swimmer Jack Conger -- one of the four athletes whose extracurricular antics after winning gold at the Rio Olympics caused something of an international incident -- issued a statement expressing regrets for his part in the scandal.

Conger's fellow Olympian, Ryan Lochte, has come under considerable fire for making up parts of story that he and the other members of his swimming team were robbed at gunpoint. The allegation came as Brazil has struggled mightily to provide security amid the dangers of a big city like Rio de Janeiro, where the games are being held.

An investigation by Brazilian law enforcement authorities revealed that the mugging never took place. Instead the altercation resulted from Lochte-led, post-medal celebrations that including the alleged damaging and public urination at a store. Lochte -- who flew back home while his fellow athletes were left behind in Brazil to face questioning from authorities -- has since issued an apology for not being truthful.

The athletes originally said they had been pulled over in their taxi and mugged by people dressed as police. But under questioning, a clearer picture of the incident emerged.

For his part, Conger insists he has been honest about his own role in the fracas, but nonetheless feels regret over the distraction the incident has caused. Conger returned home to Austin from Brazil early Friday afternoon. His statement was published by Hook 'em.com and others news sites.

"It’s good to be back home in the U.S.," Conger began in his statement. "Participating in the Olympics was a wonderful experience, and I want to express my appreciation to Brazil and to Rio de Janeiro for being wonderful hosts. I also want to express my gratitude for the support I’ve received from my family and friends, USA Swimming, the US Olympic Committee, and the University of Texas."

Then, he addresses the controversy.

"Unfortunately, one event has become the focus of attention, and I want to briefly address that event today. First and foremost, I deeply regret the trouble and embarrassment this event has brought to the people of Brazil and Rio de Janeiro, and the distraction it has caused from the achievements of my fellow Olympians. Brazil and Rio have staged a great Games, and it was a privilege to be there and to represent the United States of America. I also want to express my regret for its impact on USA Swimming and the USOC."

But he insists his own statements -- unlike those of Lochte, who has acknowledged not having been as truthful as he might have been -- have been honest.

"Let me begin by emphasizing that I have been completely truthful in my statements throughout this unfortunate situation, including the information I provided to US officials before leaving Brazil," Conger wrote. "In fact, the Brazilian authorities made clear to me from the very beginning that I was being considered only a witness, not a suspect."

He then provides a synopsis of the events in question, including acknowledging the public urination (which he apologized).

"Perhaps it will be helpful to provide a summary of what I believe happened that night: Early Sunday morning I was with USA swimming teammates celebrating at the French House. Four of us took a taxi back to the Olympic Village, and on the way we pulled into a gas station to use the restroom, but ultimately relieved ourselves outside, for which I apologize. Ryan Lochte removed a poster from a nearby wall, which apparently alerted the gas station employees, leading to our being confronted by two armed security men. Although I cooperated with their requests while there was a heated exchange among others, at one point a weapon was pointed at me. Eventually, a man appeared who was able to translate for us, helping to defuse the situation. We paid some money to compensate them for the torn poster, and returned to the Village in a different taxi."

With palpable relief about being back home -- after having had his passport seized by Brazilian authorities to prevent his return to the U.S. before questioning -- he describes the harrowing experience of facing police. The saving grace of the entire episode was its purpose as reminder of the need to be on best behavior when visiting another country at which one is a guest, he wrote.

"This has been an unsettling, humbling and frightening experience," Conger wrote. "It’s a reminder that all of us, when we travel and especially when we represent the US in the Olympics, are ambassadors for our country and should be on our best behavior."

He ends his statement thanking his former Brazilian hosts while again apologizing for his own part in the international incident that shifted attention away from accomplishments of other athletes in Rio.

"Again, I want to express my appreciation to Brazil and Rio de Janeiro, and my apologies," Conger wrote. "I appreciate the support I have received from my family and friends, as well as the support I’ve received from my teammates and so many others. Now, I am looking forward to getting back into my normal routine of school and swimming."