(CNN) — Both US athletes that exhibited throughout independent National Anthems at a regional sports contest earlier this month have been placed on probation for 12 weeks.
US Olympic & Paralympic Committee Chief Executive Officer Sarah Hirshland wrote to hammer thrower Gwen Berry and fencer Race Imboden, statingwhile I respect your view — and of each athlete for whom Im fortunate enough to serve — I disagree with the second and way in which you chose to convey your views.
All participants signed agreements to not make some political, religious, or racial comment in Lima, Peru in the Pan American Games.
Hirshlands letter cautioned the 2 athletes a different code violation could lead tomore severe sanctions than for a athlete in good position.
Both athletes can participate in sanctioned events. Berry will take part in the entire world track and field championships every month in Doha, Qatar.
CNN has reached out during their sport federations to Berry and Imboden but neither individual responded.
Berrys representative told CNN and wants to concentrate on her instruction.
She needs no distractions as her aim is to medal to the USA in the womens hammer, something that has never been achieved before, John Nubani composed in an email to CNN.
After her demonstration of a raised fist, she advised track and field site FloTrack:I know exactly what I did, and then now that I know I broke the rules, and Ill make that sacrifice. I am honored to make that sacrifice
While they all were about a ribbon podium berry increased her fist in the air and bowed her head and Imboden knelt.
Taking a knee became a form of protest following former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick sat then took a knee during the National Anthem throughout the 2016 football period in protest of police brutality and injustice against people of color.
Ever since that time, many athletes, out of NFL players, to soccer star Megan Rapinoe to high schoolers have knelt sparking anger from others and Trump.
After he knelt Imboden stated:We have to call for change. I am honored to represent Team USA at the Pan Am Games. My pride was cut short by the nation that I hold so dear to my hearts shortcomings. Racism, gun control, a president that spreads hatred, along with mistreatment of immigrants are at the peak of a long listing.
I decided to (sacrifice) my second now near the top of the podium to listen to problems that I believe need to be dealt with. I encourage others to please use your platforms for change and empowerment, he said.
Imboden, 26, won a bronze medal at the mens individual foil on Tuesday, and is ranked as the worlds second-best in the foil event. He also helped the US win gold in the mens foil team affair.
Since Imboden knelt, Nick Itkin and his teammates Gerek Meinhardt stood.
She raised her fist in the air and berry took gold in the womens hammer throw and bowed her in protest in the end of the National Anthem. It was a demonstration reminiscent of John Carlos and Tommie Smith at the 1968 Olympics.
Somebody has to stand for each the injustices which are going on in America and a president who is making it even worse, she told USA Today. It is too important not to say something.
The probationary period could include the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, which begin.
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