A new system that will provide a “safety net” for horses by connecting them with people who want to offer support “if they should ever fall on hard times down the road” has been launched by US Equestrian (USEF).

USEF’s “lifetime care contacts” initiative is a free and voluntary system designed to allow the governing body’s members to add themselves to a horse’s USEF record, signifying that if the horse ever needs financial assistance or a home, they would like to be contacted.

“We understand that many breeders, owners, athletes and grooms care deeply for the horses who have touched their lives and want to be there for them if they should ever fall on hard times down the road,” said USEF chief executive Bill Moroney.

“We had media and member inquiries about such a system last year and realised this is a way we can help.”

A USEF spokesperson added that the lifetime care system is designed to act “as a safety net for horses” – and the goal is to “facilitate connections as needed”.

“US Equestrian isn’t positioned to require anyone to reach out to a horse’s lifetime care contact, but we are in a position to make it easier for a horse in need to be connected with someone who has expressed an interest in helping them,” said Mr Moroney.

To be added as a lifetime care contact to a horse’s record – or to check if a horse has a contact on its file – individuals must be a USEF member or have a free fan account.

“USEF is unable to require that someone consult a lifetime care contact before moving, selling or transferring a horse,” said the spokesperson.

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US Equestrian (USEF) has announced a ban on certain styles of safety stirrups – a change the federation has described as “controversial”, but aimed at reducing “preventable” injuries.

The change is the result of a review of the USEF’s safety data, which noted incidents in which “riders were injured because their clothing or body got caught on a stirrup with an upward-pointing projection in the course of dismounting from their horse”.

The rule, which comes into force on 1 December, states: “No piece of equipment shall be attached to a saddle that has a rigid upward pointing projection, hook, or similar object capable of catching a rider’s clothing or person when dismounting, including stirrups”.

“We understand this change is controversial,” said USEF chief of sport David O’Connor.

“Although injuries from safety stirrups are statistically uncommon according to our data, they can be significant and are preventable with the selection of certain styles. We believe this change to the rule allows members to use a breakaway style stirrup if they prefer while reducing the risk of unintended harm.”

USEF has issued guidelines with images to help riders determine whether their stirrups comply. These show two examples of stirrups no longer allowed, open-side stirrups with elastic band – known as peacock stirrups – and those that are fully open on one side.

• View the guidelines

“Stirrups should be examined for compliance in their non-activated state (meaning any latch or releasing portion of the stirrup has not been triggered),” said a USEF spokesperson.

“In this state, the stirrup should either have closed branches (meaning there are no gaps in the outside frame of the stirrup). Or, if the branches are not closed and there is a gap in the outline of the stirrup, the gapping branch must sit inside the plane of the stirrup so there is no upward-facing, rigid projection.”

The spokesperson added that the federation is aware that tack and equipment are constantly evolving and new designs may come on to the market in the future.

“The illustrations shown in these guidelines are not intended to be a representation of all possible safety stirrup designs. A USEF task force will meet twice a year, in January and June, to review any new designs,” he said.

Manufacturers can submit products to USEF “for review to determine compliance” by completing a design review form.

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Whip use, flag penalties and ensuring that horse and riders are ready before they move up a level are among the topics under discussion in the FEI eventing rules revision.

The first draft of the 2026 rule change proposals has been published, as the eventing rules undergo a full review this year.

The US federation has called for the whip to only be permitted “to support the natural aids in encouraging the horse forward” and not to be used “to discipline”. The FEI eventing committee supported this and added that the whip is not to be used when its action is not related to a fence in cross-country or showjumping.

The FEI also proposed that pressing a tired horse should mean an automatic 25 penalties, and the existing recorded warning.

British Equestrian (BEF) tackled the topic of horse and rider experience, proposing that in addition to minimum eligibility requirements, the horse form index (HFI) – developed by EquiRatings and the FEI to track performance – be used for three-star competitions and upwards.

A BEF spokesperson said this would “stop those athletes, parents and owners” who take a “because I’m qualified, I’m ready, approach to competition”.

“This has been successfully used in Ireland. This is especially relevant to the CCI4* and CCI5* events where good pictures of the sport and social licence are very much in the public eye,” said the spokesperson.

The FEI eventing committee disagreed with this and “would instead like to encourage federations to be more vigilant and review what competitions riders are entered”.

The Swedish and German federations and the European Equestrian Federation (EEF) eventing working group suggested a reduction in the penalties for activating a frangible device from 11 to four, stating that there are more frangibles now and “therefore the chance to get a MiM is much higher than it was”.

The FEI responded: “The eventing committee is not in support of reducing the penalty of activating frangible devices, especially as it has improved cross-country riding; it is meant to prevent a rotational fall, and the consequence of activating it should remain as is.”

But the FEI was in agreement with reviewing missed flag penalties. The Pan-American Equestrian Confederation suggested this be reduced from 15 to seven as while missing a flag is an error, it is one that “does not result in potential harm to horse or rider”.

“The eventing committee agrees that the penalty for missing a flag should be less than that of activating a frangible. However, it should still be larger than that of knocking down two obstacles during the jumping test,” said the FEI, proposing that missed flags should result in nine penalties.

Dressage scores at championships and five-stars was raised by the BEF, the Swedish federation and the EEF eventing working group, who called for a permanent judges’ supervisory panel to ensure a “level playing field”, following a pilot on this last year.

The FEI said although the idea of introducing a remote review process was discussed at the Sports Forum, there are cost concerns. But “as a compromise” the eventing committee suggested changes to dressage scoring disputes.

“If the score for a flying change, halt or rein-back varies by three points or more between judges, the ground jury will review the official video as soon as possible after the test,” said the spokesperson, adding that the review must be on the same day, score corrections will only be made with ground jury agreement and “should be based on one or more of the original scores”.

The Polish federation has called for under-18s to wear safety helmets at trot-ups. The FEI medical committee is “investigating” – but felt that safety during horse inspections requires a broader approach, “not solely based on age”.

National federations have until 26 August to give feedback on the proposals. A final draft will be published in October, ahead of voting at the FEI general assembly on 7 November.

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A research fund aimed at improving the health and welfare of sports horses has been named in memory of Chromatic BF, the 13-year-old US showjumper who died at the 2024 World Cup Final.

The Chromatic Fund is a collaborative initiative of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), US Equestrian (USEF), and Chromatic’s breeder KC Branscomb.

Chromatic BF collapsed and died in the stables shortly after the second leg of the competition on 18 April, in which he had finished third with rider Jill Humphrey.

USEF reported that the post-mortem was “inconclusive”, but that following engagement of experts, the “probable contributor was related to medications administered to the horse by a USEF appointed veterinarian” shortly before he collapsed – and that the vet made the decision to administer the FEI-permitted medications “that he believed would help sustain the horse’s performance in the days that followed”.

In August H&H reported new US initiatives to support horse welfare, aimed at “learning from this tragedy and mitigating the risk of recurrence”, including tighter rules around the administration of medications at international competitions.

In a further step, the Chromatic Fund has now been established. The “philanthropic donor-advised” fund will enable science-based, equine-specific research and information access “to benefit the health, wellbeing, and career longevity of horses in sport”.

Ms Branscomb made an initial gift to start the fund, matching a pledge made earlier by USEF, and will continue to support equine welfare efforts “as an advocate for additional fund resources and as one of the key advisors”.

“Our horses and the people who care for them deserve best-in-class information about the appropriate use, efficacy, and risks of various medications, supplements, and therapies,” said Ms Branscomb.

“This landmark cooperation between AAEP and USEF will enable horses to continue to compete in sport while living happier, healthier, and safer lives.”

USEF chief executive Bill Moroney added: “We are dedicated to enhancing our welfare initiatives for sport horses announced in August. Partnering with AAEP, the Foundation for the Horse, and Ms Branscomb is the perfect partnership to set this education and research program on the right path to success.”

In October the Foundation for the Horse awarded $664,467 (£520,633) for 18 research projects, including innovation and discovery research grants to equine researchers investigating “novel approaches to an array of conditions affecting equine health and welfare”.

A spokesperson for the Chromatic fund, which will be overseen by an advisory board of industry stakeholders, said that specific research and education grants associated with the fund will be project-reviewed and managed by AAEP-member equine vet participants volunteering through the Foundation for the Horse.

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Headpieces that do not have continuous padding across the poll will no longer be allowed in some US dressage competitions, in a decision described as “baffling” by one manufacturer.

Under the US Equestrian’s (USEF) rule change that came into force on 1 September, the crownpiece (headpiece) may be padded and may have elastic inserts, but “must be smooth and continuous across the poll, and rectangular or in the same shape as the crownpiece”. Padding must not extend 1.5cm beyond the dimensions of the crownpiece.

The rule applies to USEF and US Dressage Federation-licensed dressage competitions. A USEF spokesperson said athletes competing in CDIs would be required to follow FEI rules for permitted saddlery/equipment. And an FEI spokesperson confirmed to H&H that there are “no specifications in the FEI regulations regarding the shape and size of the padding of the crownpiece”.

A USEF spokesperson told H&H that the dressage committee put forward the rule and members were able to comment on this in spring before it was approved. The rule was proposed by USEF’s rules working group in “reference to studies being conducted around the application of pressure of the crownpieces to the poll”.

“The contact area of the crownpiece is important for dissipating the force applied to the horse’s head by the weight of the bridle, especially when using a double bridle, which is considerably heavier than a snaffle bridle,” said Hilary Clayton, USEF committee member and vet at Michigan State University.

Ms Clayton is a biomechanics expert and has published seven books and more than 200 peer-reviewed manuscripts in equine research.

“Ideally, the headpiece should distribute the force evenly over a large area. This is accomplished by having a wide headpiece lined by a continuous layer of padding. If the headpiece itself or the padding beneath it are incomplete, poll pressure increases.”

The USEF spokesperson confirmed to H&H that the rule is currently only in dressage – and does not apply to the dressage phase in eventing. But she added that this does not mean “it can’t change in the future or that other disciplines won’t follow suit with a similar rule”.

A WOW Saddles spokesperson said the company “cannot understand the ruling” and described it as “baffling”. WOW has redesigned a USEF-compliant interchangeable headpiece in response.

“As designers of tack, and horse owners and riders, we have never seen a horse go badly in a headpiece that relieves the mane and nuchal ligament. Their concern is that the edges of the pads cause pressure points. However, the mane sticks up from the natural curvature of the poll and this in turn makes all headpieces, that do not have the relief, apply more pressure on the mane or bridle groove,” he said.

“Countless bridles are now made with nuchal relief; this is not fashion, it is because through anecdotal and scientific evidence we have learnt that horses prefer the pressure not to be on the support structure of the spine.”

The PS of Sweden Nirak bridle headpiece is not permitted under the new rule, and PS of Sweden chief assortment officer Jenny Eliasson told H&H that “our commitment to horse welfare comes first in every design decision”.

“With the recent update to the USEF rules in dressage, we immediately moved to ensure our bridles remain both compliant and true to our principles of comfort and support,” she said.

“In response to the new regulations, we are introducing a new headpiece that meets the requirements while retaining our high standard of anatomical comfort. This is already in production and will be released in the coming months.

“It will be available with the Nirak bridle and as a separate item, allowing riders to update their current bridles easily.

“We remain dedicated to supporting both horses and riders with innovative, welfare-focused solutions that align with the latest standards.”

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The US equestrian federation has updated its rules around horse abuse following “unacceptable situations” – as it stresses “good horsemanship and a positive image of our sport is of critical importance”, now more than ever.

From 1 December, US Equestrian (USEF) rule GR838, which applies to abuse and neglect of a horse on competition grounds, will replace the phrase “cruelty to and abuse of a horse” with “unethical treatment of a horse”. The revised rule applies “anywhere, regardless of whether the unethical treatment is in connection to or occurring at a USEF-licensed or endorsed competition”.

Behaviours that fall under the rule include – but are not limited to – excessive use or misuse of the whip, spur or bit, misuse of any equipment or device including tack, any practice or use of devices or objects to enhance a horse’s performance based on fear or intimidation, and training, riding or competing a horse with raw, bleeding, or irritated skin consistent with excessive, persistent or inappropriate equipment. Penalties include fines, suspension, expulsion or permanent ineligibility.

The amendment was based on USEF member feedback and conversations during the federation’s annual convention, and “more accurately reflects USEF’s role as guardian of both sport and our horses”.

A federation spokesperson said “at USEF, we fully believe that the care and welfare of horses, both inside and outside of the competition arena, must be held to the highest standards and levels of ethical behaviour”.

“Good horsemanship and a positive image of our sport is, now more than ever before, of critical importance to our social licence to continue to operate our sport. It is the duty of each one of us to do our utmost to preserve and safeguard the integrity of our sport,” he said.

“Individuals who engage in unethical treatment of horses — regardless of location — are compromising the integrity of our sport and endangering its viability, sustainability and public perception at a time when all equestrian sport, including USEF-governed breeds and disciplines, is under increasing scrutiny.”

The spokesperson added that “situations such as those that have come to light recently via social media are unacceptable”.

“USEF has heard your concerns and appreciates the courage it takes to report alleged incidents of cruelty to and abuse of our equine partners,” he said.

“We understand and share your frustration that, in many instances, we could not act on incidents that occurred outside of the competition environment.”

Although the rule applies anywhere, the spokesperson said this does not mean USEF will be visiting private properties – and so the federation “continues to rely” on people reporting incidents.

“Once a report is received, USEF will work diligently to interview witnesses with personal knowledge and authenticate any photographs, videos or other physical evidence related to the alleged incident,” the spokesperson said, adding that “this takes time” and that all allegations are taken seriously.

“While we are eager to hold wrongdoers accountable, fairness and the integrity of the process dictate that they have the opportunity to be heard and offer evidence in response.”

The spokesperson added that “the time has come for the USEF community to strengthen our existing leadership on this issue for the betterment of horses and equestrian sport”.

“This also means that each of us must model exemplary behaviour at all times. We believe the revisions to GR838, coupled with the existing process and procedures, protect both our horses and our members,” he said.

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New initiatives to “support sport horse welfare” have been announced in the United States following the death of showjumper Chromatic BF at the World Cup final.

Katharine Branscomb’s 13-year-old gelding Chromatic BF collapsed and died in the stables shortly after the second leg of the competition on 18 April, in which he had finished third with rider Jill Humphrey. It was reported at the time that following Chromatic BF’s round he was given a “refreshment and a routine shot of electrolytes” by the US team vet.

US Equestrian (USEF) has “sought as much information as possible” on what led to Chromatic BF’s death.

“While the post-mortem was inconclusive, following USEF’s engagement of experts to study the findings, USEF believes the most probable contributor is related to medications administered to the horse by a USEF appointed veterinarian shortly before the horse collapsed,” said a USEF spokesperson.

“The USEF-appointed veterinarian made the decision to administer FEI-permitted medications that he believed would help sustain the horse’s performance in the days that followed.”

Ms Branscombe said she recognised that Chromatic BF’s death was the “unintended consequence of a single vet acting alone without prior consultation of anyone on Chromatic BF’s team out of a well-intentioned but mistaken effort to help the horse prepare for the jumping final to be held two days later”.

“I truly appreciate that the USEF is taking substantive steps now towards improving sport horse welfare and better protecting all our competition horses,” she added.

USEF and the FEI confirmed to H&H that the vet who administered the medication to Chromatic BF did not break any FEI rules and no action is being taken against the vet.

USEF and Ms Brancombe have developed initiatives “aimed at learning from this tragedy and mitigating the risk of a recurrence”. This includes revision to USEF’s horse participation consent agreement to state that except in emergencies, no medication will be administered by team vets at international competitions without prior consent of the athlete, who is the person responsible under the FEI regulations for substances present in the horse.

The federation, in collaboration with the American Association of Equine Practitioners, will develop a continuing education programme for team vets around performance sports medicine and welfare, and a new education/research programme will also be launched in Chromatic BF’s name.

Ms Branscomb told H&H she is “quite optimistic that the tragic and avoidable death of my beloved horse will have an enduring positive impact on the safety and wellbeing of sport horses at all USEF-sanctioned events from today onwards”.

“It took courage and hard work on everyone’s part to arrive at what I sincerely believe will be a powerful set of new tools to enrich and nurture the lives of our equine teammates in competition,” she said, adding that the next step is to establish priorities and guidelines for the projects.

An FEI spokesperson told H&H the FEI acknowledges and supports USEF’s initiatives as they “convey an important message to the worldwide veterinary community”.

“In light of the events, the FEI has emphasised the importance of limiting injections to only what is necessary and safe. We also strongly encourage avoiding off-label use of medications whenever possible,” said an FEI spokesperson.

“We have asked that a careful risk/benefit assessment be carried out for every treatment administered, with particular attention to avoiding injectable substances when a safe and effective oral option is available.”

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When competing at or training for dressage, whether you have a young or established horse, the overall aim is to use the scales of training to work your way up through the dressage levels.

Each of the levels of dressage features a number of different dressage tests. Each test is unique, but tests within the same level share the same movements. As you progress through the levels, tests will include movements and paces learnt at previous levels as well as the new ones that are introduced at each stage.

Many riders compete at one level, but train at a higher level at home. This ensures that the horse and rider are confident with the movements being ridden in competition, giving the partnership the opportunity to demonstrate their skills to the best of their ability.

Levels of dressage competition in Britain

The sport in Britain is governed by British Dressage, who are responsible for the provision and regulation of competition, while international competitions are run by the FEI. British Dressage host two major championships annually at each level, which are known as the Nationals (prelim to grand prix) and the Winters (prelim to inter I), as well as many regional championships, festivals and other team competitions. 

The British dressage levels are as follows…

Introductory

“Intro” is the first level and includes halt, plus simple walk and trot movements, including free walk on a long rein, trot-walk-trot transitions, 10m circles at walk, half 10m circles at trot, 20m circles and three-loop serpentines at trot and allowing the horse to stretch in trot. The tests are ridden in a 20×40 arena and designed to show that horse and rider are beginning their training on correct lines, with an emphasis on rhythm, suppleness and contact.

Preliminary

Canter is introduced at “prelim” level. You should expect to ride 20m circles in canter, 15m circles in trot as well as stretching in trot, plus 10m half circles at walk. All of the work requires the partnership to show they are establishing rhythm, suppleness and a good contact. Tests at this level can be set in 20×40 and 20×60 arenas.

Novice

Novice tests introduce some medium trot and medium canter steps, but the quality of the steps is prioritised over the number of steps shown. Novice also sees the introduction of counter canter and progressive transitions from walk to canter when a few strides of trot may be shown. In trot, circles of 10m or larger as well as serpentines, are required. Canter circles can be 15m or larger. Giving and retaking of the reins, 10m loops in trot, and changes of canter lead through trot can be expected. The scales of training should be becoming more established, including rhythm, suppleness, contact, impulsion, straightness and the start of collection shown through the downward transitions.

Elementary

This level is the first that requires the early stages of collection to be shown in the form of sufficient engagement of the hindquarters to carry out the movements with ease and balance. Elementary is the first level to introduce lateral work with the leg yield and shoulder-in in trot. You’ll also be required to ride collected trot, collected canter, stretching in canter and simple changes. Canter circles can be down to 10m. In the simple change of leg, the downward transition may be progressive, but walk to canter should be direct with the walk steps clearly shown. Rein back is first seen at elementary level. Double bridles are first allowed at this level, although they are not compulsory.

Medium

Once at medium level all of the scales of training should be established, with the horse showing suppleness, elasticity and impulsion to be able to collect and extend its paces on request. The horse should show a marked degree of self-carriage, lightness and cadence. Extended trot and walk pirouettes are first seen at medium. More lateral work is required including shoulder-in, travers, and half pass at trot and canter are also introduced. Medium is the first level at which sitting trot is mandatory, although you can rise for medium and extended trot movements.

Advanced medium

Expect to see single flying changes at advanced medium, and the introduction of 8m circles (or voltes) that are ridden at trot and canter. Sitting trot is required for all trotwork at this level.

Advanced

This level requires you to ride canter half circles with the quarters in as a stepping stone towards canter pirouettes, plus four- and five-time tempi changes. At advanced level you have the option to begin wearing a tail coat instead of a short competition jacket. All test are in the 20×60 arena.

Prix st georges

Often shortened to PSG, this level marks the start of international competition. It introduces the half canter pirouette, three-time tempi changes and simple changes of leg after a canter half pass (from counter canter to true canter).

Intermediate I

At “inter I”, expect to ride two-time tempi changes and a full canter pirouette.

Intermediate II

“Inter II” introduces one-time tempi changes, flying changes after a half pass, piaffe and passage.

Grand prix

This is the highest level of dressage and is regarded as the ultimate test. This is the level you’ll see at the Olympics, World Championships and FEI World Cup competitions.

US dressage levels

National level dressage competition is governed by the United States Equestrian Federation. There are five levels of national tests, which are followed by international levels.

Training

Comparable to prelim in Britain, at this level competitors should show the horse has true natural paces, is obedient, calm and relaxed. The USEF states that the level should “introduce the sport of dressage, confirming that the horse and rider are beginning to develop an understanding of correct dressage basics. The horse should be ridden freely forward in a steady tempo and clear rhythm, accepting contact with the bit. An understanding of test accuracy and geometry should be demonstrated.”

First

Comparable to British novice level, at first level the horse should now be able to show some lengthened strides in the trot and canter and perform some 10 or 15 metre circles in trot and canter. The USEF states that level aims to ensure “the horse demonstrates correct basics, by showing suppleness both laterally and longitudinally, moving freely forward in a clear rhythm with a steady tempo, and readily accepting contact with the bit. Correct geometry and lines of travel should be shown.”

Second

This level, which is similar to the British elementary level, introduces collected trot and canter, counter canter and rein-back. According to the USEF, this level “confirms that the horse demonstrates correct basics, and now begins to accept more weight on the hindquarters as the collected and medium gaits develop. A greater degree of straightness, suppleness, throughness, and balance are required to perform the movements with ease and self-carriage.”

Third

Comparable to medium and advanced medium, the movements at this level should be executed without tension. It introduces the walk half pirouettes and flying changes. The level, according to the USEF, “confirms that the horse demonstrates correct basics while maintaining consistent uphill balance and self-carriage. Increased engagement facilitates clear differences in collected, medium, and extended gaits with well-defined, balanced transitions. Movements should be accomplished with harmony and ease due to the increased balance and collection. The horse must demonstrate a greater degree of throughness, suppleness, straightness, and bending.”

Fourth

At this level, which is similar to advanced level in Britain, half and full pirouettes are required in canter, and counter-canter and four-time changes are also expected. The USEF says that this level shows that the horse “has developed sufficient throughness, suppleness, balance, and impulsion to perform with ease the exercises at this medium level of difficulty. The horse has established consistent self-carriage and lightness through improved connection, engagement, and collection. The movements and transitions are performed with greater straightness, impulsion, and cadence.”

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

James “Jimmy” Wofford, the former Olympic eventer, renowned trainer and author died on 2 February aged 78, from pancreatic cancer.

Born in Kansas, Mr Wofford came from an equestrian family and was the youngest of four siblings. His father Col John Wofford rode in the US showjumping team at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, his eldest brother Jeb won a bronze medal in eventing at the 1952 Helsinki Games and his brother Warren was a reserve for the showjumping and eventing teams at the 1956 Olympics in Melbourne.

Mr Wofford attended Culver Military Academy in Indiana, then studied at the University of Colorado. In 1966 he married his childhood sweetheart Gail, and the couple later moved to their farm Fox Covert, in Virginia.

He joined the US eventing team in 1965, and was part of the silver medal-winning team at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics on Kilkenny, a horse previously ridden by Irish rider Tommy Brennan at the 1964 Olympics and 1966 World Championships. Mr Wofford and Kilkenny won team silver at the 1972 Munich Games, after which Kilkenny was retired. Mr Wofford then bought Carawich, with whom he won individual silver at the alternative Olympics in Fontainebleau in 1980, the year the Moscow Games were boycotted.

His many other achievements included individual and team bronze at the 1970 and 1978 World Championships respectively, team gold at the 1967 Pan American Games, and five national championship titles. He retired from competition in 1984, but made a brief return in 1986 when he won the Kentucky Three-Day Event on Karen O’Connor’s The Optimist, while she was competing at the World Championships in Australia.

Mr Wofford was a respected and highly sought-after coach. At least one rider from every US Olympic, World and Pan American team since 1978 has been a student of his, and he coached the Canadian eventing team for the 2002 World Championships, the 2003 Pan American Games and the 2004 Olympics.

He served as president of the American Horse Show Association, which became US Equestrian, from 1988 to 1991. He was the first vice-president of the US Equestrian Team, and was secretary of the United States Combined Training Association, now known as the United States Eventing Association (USEA). He was also a member of the FEI eventing committee for two terms, including vice-chairman for two years.

Mr Wofford published his first book in 1955; Training the Three-Day Event Horse and Rider. This was followed by Gymnastics: Systematic Training for Jumping Horses, 101 Eventing Tips, and Take A Good Look Around. His autobiography Still Horse Crazy After All These Years: If It Didn’t Happen This Way, It Should Have was published in 2021.

He was inducted into the USEA’s eventing hall of fame in 2003 and in 2012 he received the US Equestrian lifetime achievement award.

USEA chief executive Rob Burk said the equestrian community has lost a “true horseman, statesman and legend”.

“I considered Jim a friend as did so many others. Knowing Wofford he would expect us to stay on course and keep riding over the obstacles in our path, so that is what we will do,” he said.

Mr Wofford is survived by his wife Gail, and their daughters Jennifer and Hillary.

More articles featuring Jimmy Wofford:

Finding a superstar: ‘He kept looking at me – it made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up’

Read about how one event rider found their next top horse while coaching at Badminton – or rather, how the

Remembering the 1968 Olympics: ‘The gravel landing gave way to deep mud and I was pitched forward onto his ears…’

The Olympics in adversity: how past Games have been affected by world events, from wars to boycotts

With the 2020 Games postponed a year by the coronavirus pandemic, Pippa Roome looks back on other Olympics that have

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

More than 2,000 horses have been evacuated in Florida as owners prepare for the arrival of “extremely dangerous” Hurricane Ian.

The “life-threatening storm surge” made landfall over Cuba around 4.30am EDT (9.30am UK time) this morning (27 September) and forecasters predict it will continue over Florida today, making its way up the east coast until Friday evening (30 October).

At present Hurricane Ian is category three and could bring winds of up to 115mph and up to 24 inches of rain in isolated parts of the state. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) said hurricane-force winds are expected in southwest and west-central Florida beginning Wednesday morning local time (28 September) with tropical storm conditions expected by evening.

Heavy rainfall is expected to increase across the Florida Keys and south Florida, spreading into central and northern Florida, into the southeast coast by Thursday and Friday. This is likely to cause flash, urban and small stream flooding. Considerable flooding is expected across central Florida into southern Georgia and coastal South Carolina, with widespread, prolonged moderate to major river flooding expected.

The World Equestrian Center in Ocala, northern Florida, has taken in more than 2,000 evacuated horses – but has now reached capacity.

US Equestrian (USEF) told H&H it is “closely monitoring” the evolving situation and the potential impact on horses in Florida.

“We applaud the efforts of the World Equestrian Center who have generously opened their facility for more than 2,000 horses in need of housing. The equestrian community always comes together in times of need,” said the spokesman.

“USEF is prepared to activate the USEF disaster relief fund and provide resources immediately to non-profit organisations to fund supplies and horse care where needed. We will continue to accept donations to support the USEF Disaster Relief Fund today and in the future.”

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Concerns have been raised around leadership and funding in US eventing ahead of the first 2022 five-star competition, but the federation says an interim chef d’equipe and team manager will be appointed this spring.

Event rider Phillip Dutton, who rode at three Olympic Games for Australia before changing nationality in 2006 to represent the US, has raised concerns around the availability of grants from US Equestrian (USEF) for the sport – and the wait for a new chef d’equipe. In December it was announced Erik Duvander’s contract with USEF was not being renewed, after four years as performance director of eventing, and this was followed by the departure of USEF manager director of eventing Jenni Autry, who had been in position since July 2019.

“The lack of urgency that USEF has for getting a leader installed and moving forward is very disappointing for many of us event riders,” said Phillip. “It’s now nearly April and arguably our most influential five-stars, Kentucky and Badminton, are just a few weeks away, not to mention the World Championships in September.

“No eventing grants are currently being given out, even though the fundraising efforts that USEF promotes are to raise money for all disciplines. We sincerely hope USEF will recognise this and be proactive.”

USEF director of sport Will Connell told H&H the organisation is taking a “thorough and mediated approach” to a restructure of the US elite eventing program.

“We want to ensure there is stability and a maintained pathway for success for the future and have openly communicated our approach since this process began,” he said.

“An elite eventing task force, with representation of athletes, owners, and individuals with extensive international experience, were appointed to consider all aspects of the elite program with dialogue being led by a facilitator from the United States Olympics and Paralympic Committee.”

Mr Connell said an interim chef d’equipe and team manager will be appointed prior to the Kentucky Three-Day Event (28 April to 1 May) “giving time to clarify the role” and ultimately help USEF identify the “right person” to lead the elite programme through Paris 2024 and beyond.

“It has also been communicated to athletes that there will be funding to support athletes travelling to Europe for specific Nations Cup competitions in 2022, as the USET Foundation continues to manage grant allocation on and above the very generous funding they provide to the federation’s high performance programmes,” said the spokesman.

“The athletes continue to be significant contributors in how we have moved forward with this process. The stakeholder groups involved are all in agreement it is critical to ensure we have the right individuals in place in order for the program to be competitive and consistent at the international championship level moving forward and continue to invest efforts in the growth and management of the developing programs under the guidance of [British rider and US eventing developing rider coach] Leslie Law.”

You might also be interested in:

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Another horse has been put down during the ongoing California equine herpes virus (EHV-1) outbreak, bringing the number of fatalities to seven.

To date, eight counties in California have confirmed EHV-1 cases – four of these reporting the neurological form of the virus.

In the latest update from the California Department of Food & Agriculture (9 March) it was confirmed a 15-year-old gelding in San Mateo, who had a confirmed case of neurological EHV-1, was put down owing to the severity of his clinical signs. Another horse at the same site has tested positive for EHV-1, but is not showing neurological signs at present. CFDA is on site at the premises and 52 horses who have been exposed to the virus have been quarantined.

Seven horses have now died during the outbreak. Further EHV-1 positives, including some neurological cases, have been confirmed at two premises in Orange County, but no further cases have been reported at the affected facilities in Los Angeles County, Alameda County, Riverside County. In an update yesterday a spokesman from Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, where daily testing has been taking place, said three of its barns had been released from quarantine.

On 6 March BlenheimEquiSports announced that the San Juan Capistrano leg of the showjumping Nations Cup (10-15 May) was cancelled, in a decision supported by US Equestrian (USEF) and the FEI. The decision follows the California state vet recommending that all hunter/jumper events were postponed for 28 days, and all other equine events and non-essential horse movement was postponed for 14 days.

“The safety and welfare of our members and their horses is our top priority and most important responsibility, and while we are disappointed for the BlenheimEquiSports management team and all of the athletes, we are fully supportive of this decision while the mitigation and containment efforts for EHV-1 are still ongoing in California,” said USEF chief executive Bill Moroney.

“We are thankful to the FEI for their understanding and continued alignment with us given the circumstances we’ve faced on the West Coast this season.”

You might also be interested in:

California EHV-1 outbreak: six horses put down as competition is halted

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Equestrian competitions have been suspended in California for two weeks owing to an ongoing equine herpes (EHV-1) outbreak in which six horses have been put down.

Yesterday (4 March) the California Department of Food & Agriculture said the neurological strain of EHV-1 had been detected in multiple horses in several counties in California. The California state vet has recommended that all hunter/jumper events, the most affected group, are postponed for 28 days, and that all equine events and non-essential horse movement is postponed for 14 days.

To date cases have been reported in horses who had been competing at the Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, the Los Angeles Equestrian Centre, and a venue in Rancho Murieta. Six horses have been put down owing to the severity of their clinical signs.

A spokesman for US Equestrian (USEF), which has suspended its competitions across California, said as return-to-competition protocols are implemented, more horses will be tested, which will result in more positive test results for horses.

“EHV-1 lives dormant in many horses. The increase in positives is expected as we test asymptomatic horses for EHV-1. The additional testing will allow the USEF community to mitigate the spread of the virus and safeguard horses,” he said.

“The expected increase in confirmed positive EHV-1 cases is not necessarily alarming if the horse is asymptomatic.”

“We all recognise that horses with clinical EHV-1 are high risk when it comes to risk of transmission. What most people forget is that infection does not always translate into disease, meaning that adult horses can shed EHV-1 without displaying any abnormal clinical signs,” added Nicola Pusteria, professor of medicine and epidemiology at UC Davis Veterinary Medicine.

When sport restarts, USEF will provide an EHV-1 declaration form for competitors to complete on arrival at competitions as a further measure to protect horses and facilitate tracking. In order for horses to compete at FEI competitions, horses must have a negative EHV-1 PCR test.

You might also be interested in:

Equine herpes virus – all you need to know right now

‘Mistakes were made’: poor decisions and human error contributed to European EHV-1 outbreak

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The lifelong equestrian and former US team event rider Mason Phelps Jr died at home on 19 May from a heart attack, aged 72.

Mason’s passion for horses and equestrian sport started at the age of 16 when he was invited to join a training clinic with the US equestrian team.

In 1967 he competed at the European Eventing Championships in Punchestown, Ireland, on Gladstone and in 1968 he was reserve for the US eventing team at the Mexico City Olympics. The same year he was named the US Combined Training Association’s rider of the year.

During his equestrian career he was also a trainer, with his own stable of hunter/jumpers, and an event organiser. In the 1970s he launched many shows that still exist in the US including the AA-rated Christmas show in San Antonio, Texas, the American Jumping Derby (which later became the International Jumping Derby in Rhode Island, and the New England Horsemen’s Association Hunt Seat Medal event. He was one of the organisers of the first World Cup finals to be held in the US, in Baltimore 1980, was director of equestrian operations at Palm Beach Polo in 1991, and spent several years as president of the National Horse Show.

In the early 1990s Mason created classes at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington including the Maclay equitation championship and medal finals, an equitation class for past Olympic, Pan American Games and Nations Cup riders. In 2012 he organised the World Dressage Masters Palm Beach in Wellington, Florida.

Mason was chairman of the American Horse Show Association (ASHA) (now US Equestrian) zone one for eight years and served on boards including the ASHA, the United States Equestrian Team Foundation (USET) and the Showjumping Hall of Fame. He was involved in various charity and fundraising work and in 1996 was one of the founders of the Equestrian Aid Foundation, which helps US riders suffering from catastrophic injury or illness. In 1998 he produced an annual benefit gala, Denim and Diamonds, for USET which ran until 2000, and returned again for 2004.

In 2001 Mason formed Phelps Media Group, providing public relations services to equestrian events, organisations, riders and businesses.

“Mason was the epitome of a lifelong equestrian, maintaining an undeniable relevance in the sport that has defined his personal and professional life,” said a spokesman for Phelps Media Group.

Continued below…

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Induction into the hall of fame takes place annually based on individuals whose contributions to the sport have “set them

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

“With a proclivity for innovation, Mason paved the way, launching dozens of ingenious events throughout his career. Whether they were equestrian competitions or philanthropic fundraisers, his successful events were often the talk of the town with packed attendance.

Leonore Philips, president of Phelps Media Group, added that the entire equestrian community had suffered an “unimaginable loss”.

A remembrance service and memorial will take place in the future.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

In a U-turn decision, the World Equestrian Center (WEC) in Florida, USA, will not hold hunter/jumper competitions governed by US Equestrian (USEF), leaving the topic of unsanctioned shows up in the air again.

In November 2020 H&H reported on a dispute between WEC and USEF around WEC’s decision to host competitions sanctioned by the National Snaffle Bit Association during the 12-week Ocala Winter Spectacular (6 January to 28 March) at the same time as national federation-sanctioned competitions at the venue. USEF withdrew the centre’s hunter/jumper competition licences and stated WEC combining the competitions was “confusing” and “jeopardised” horse and human safety and welfare.

At the time USEF notified the FEI that these events were unauthorised, meaning the FEI could decide whether it would apply the unsanctioned event rule. The rule states that any FEI official, registered athlete or horse who participates in an unsanctioned event faces up to six months of ineligibility to participate in FEI competitions and so also national competitions.

In January 2021 an agreement was reached between WEC and USEF and the organisations said they would “work together in the best interest of the sport”, in order for the centre to host sanctioned competitions. In a joint statement, WEC and USEF said they were “formulating a plan” to consider how to operate under the rules that govern all USEF organisers. USEF withdrew its request to the FEI to declare the 2021 Ocala Winter Spectacular unsanctioned.

Three months on, the centre has done a U-turn, and in a statement on 23 April said “all 2021 competitions” at its venues in Wilmington, Ohio, and Ocala will be sanctioned by the National Snaffle Bit Association from 3 May.

“As a competition organiser we have experienced incredible support from the NSBA and their executives. For our exhibitors, in addition to being an affordable choice, the NSBA offers many benefits including transparency, safe and clean sport and amazing opportunities for junior, amateur and professional riders,” read the statement.

“This decision is based on the success of our 2021 Ocala Winter Spectacular and discussions with our exhibitor base. The move to consolidate our competition sanctioning to one organisation that we have developed a strong relationship with makes sense for us and for our exhibitors who have grown to know and trust the NSBA.”

The statement added that the management plans to expand the number of shows in the calendar, which will allow competitors to accrue more points to qualify for “exciting national championship opportunities” coming soon.

“We look forward to an exciting year of horse showing and as things move toward the new normal, welcoming all of the equestrians in our WEC family home to our Ohio and Ocala facilities,” it said.

While the statement said “all competitions”, H&H clarified with WEC that the announcement was in relation to hunter/jumper shows.

“WEC dressage shows will continue to be sanctioned by the USEF and FEI,” the WEC spokesman told H&H.

A USEF spokesman told H&H all USEF hunter/jumper and FEI showjumping competitions at the venue from 5 May to 31 December have been withdrawn from the calendar.

“USEF was disappointed to learn from the official statement published 23 April on the WEC website that WEC management decided that beginning 3 May, all 2021 competitions at their Wilmington, OH and Ocala, FL venues will be sanctioned by the NSBA,” said the spokesman.

“We understand this surprising decision also disappoints USEF members who made plans to participate in the announced and promoted USEF competitions this spring/summer/ fall, but now must adjust plans.”

The spokesman added that the dates removed from the calendar will now become available to other organisers.

Continued below…

New world-class show centre in dispute with national federation

The federation said it had “no choice” but to withdraw its competition licences from the facility

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

“USEF has acted in good faith, in accordance with our mutual agreement with WEC, and consistent with USEF rules for all organisers,” he said.

The FEI told H&H it had not received “official confirmation or formal notice” that WEC will run events solely sanctioned by the National Snaffle Bit Association. H&H asked the FEI if the unsanctioned event rule will apply to individuals competing in hunter/jumper events sanctioned by NSBA but the FEI did not answer this question.

The USEF spokesman told H&H the sanctioned rule is an FEI rule, and USEF has not had an opportunity to discuss WEC‘s decision with the FEI.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Kent Farrington, McLain Ward, Beezie Madden and Laura Kraut are among the 10 riders shortlisted for the US showjumping team for the Tokyo Olympic Games.

On 15 April US Equestrian announced the riders that will undergo “continued observation” ahead of the team selection. Also on the list are Jessica Springsteen, Lucy Deslauriers, Bliss Heers, Brian Moggre, Devin Ryan, and Adrienne Sternlicht.

If selected, the Tokyo Games will be McLain’s and Beezie’s fifth Olympic appearance, having both been part of the team at Rio 2016, London 2012, Beijing 2008 and Athens 2004. Laura was a team member in Beijing and at the 2000 Sydney Games, while Kent rode on the Rio squad. The US team won team gold at Beijing and Athens, and silver at Rio.

The other five riders will be making their Olympic debut if selected. Adrienne and Devin were part of the gold medal-winning team at the 2018 World Equestrian Games, and 20-year-old Brian has enjoyed a number of youth team appearances. Jessica has been a member of several Nations Cup teams, including the winning team at the CSIO4* at the Winter Equestrian Festival along with Brian, and Bliss.

The possible combinations for Tokyo are:

• McLain on Contagious, HH Azur or Kasper Van Het Hellehof
• Beezie on Breitling LS, Chic Hin D Hyrencourt or Garant
• Laura on Baloutine, Confu, or Goldwin
• Kent on Austria 2 or Gazelle
• Jessica on Don Juan van de Donkhoeve or RMF Zecilie
• Adrienne on Bennys Legacy, Cristalline, or Just a Gamble

Bliss will be considered on Antidote de Mars, Devin with Eddie Blue, and Lucy on Hester.

Continued below…

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

A USEF spokesman said riders and horses will compete in designated CSIO/CSI observation events, including the CSIO5* Nations Cups in Sopot, Poland, (17-20 June) and Rotterdam, the Netherlands, (24-27 June).

The final Olympic team selection will be announced on 5 July. All nominations to the team are subject to approval by the US Olympic and Paralympic committee.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A US eventing rule change increasing minimum eligibility requirements has been put on hold until 2023 while further investigations take place.

The proposal, developed by the United States Eventing Association’s cross-country safety subcommittee following analysis of US eventing accidents, was first outlined at USEA’s annual meeting and convention in 2019. It called for an increase to minimum eligibility requirements (MERs) and rider categorisation, in US Equestrian’s (USEF) rules of eventing.

At the time Jonathan Holling, chair of the USEA cross-country safety committee, said he wanted riders to have more of a base knowledge and ability than the standard MERs asked for.

“We looked at records of very successful upper-level riders – Olympic calibre riders – and we found that in most cases (virtually all of them) did two to three times more than our minimum requirements to be able to move a horse up,” Mr Holling said.

“When we looked at that, we said, ‘maybe we don’t have right what we are requiring for the base of the sport.’ We felt pretty strongly, and the data confirmed, that one way we can increase the skill of riders and the horsemanship and relationship between the horses and the riders is to raise the minimum eligibility requirements. In a nutshell, people will have to do more at a level before they can move up.”

Under current rules, each national level has a different set of requirements, for example a horse can compete at intermediate level when it has four MERs at preliminary level horse trials, and one of these results can include 20 cross-country jumping penalties. A MER at national level is a completion with no more than 50 penalties in dressage, no jumping penalties and no more than 36 time-penalties across country, and no more than 16 jumping penalties.

The proposed rule change called for riders to hold licences in recognition of proven competence at a certain level. To hold an A licence, riders must have obtained 25 MERs at intermediate level and above, B riders must have obtained 25 MERs at preliminary and above, and riders who do not have these MERs would be categorised as “unlicensed”.

In line with the licences, this would mean to compete at preliminary level, A riders must have obtained an MER at four training level horse trials within 24 months, B riders must have obtained seven MERs within 24 months, and unlicensed riders must have obtained 10 MERs within 24 months. B and unlicensed riders must have obtained these with a horse as a combination.

In February 2021 following feedback from USEA members, the USEA board of governors voted to modify the proposal to lower the requirements, but still recommend the establishment of rider licences and increase of MERs. The revised proposal included a requirement that at preliminary level and above at least one MER must have been obtained within eight weeks prior to the competition.

The revised proposal also called for licence requirements for preliminary level to be changed to; four MERs for A riders at training level or above, B riders must have obtained four MERs plus two additional MERs with no more than 20 jumping cross-country penalties, and unlicensed riders must have six MERs, plus two additional with no more than 20 jumping cross-country penalties.

On 1 March the USEA’s board of governors submitted the proposal to USEF. The board “made it clear” they shared the position of the USEA cross-country safety subcommittee that more needs to be done to ensure riders and horses obtain more than just a minimal amount of experiences.

The USEF board gathered feedback from the public on the changes and received more than 1,200 responses and it had been recognised that due to not the USEA annual meeting and convention and other meetings not running in person last year, a portion of the membership did not feel “fully informed” about the proposal. Subsequently the board determined work needed to be done to investigate the questions raised and communicatie the reasoning behind the rule change.

“The USEA cross-country safety subcommittee has done an amazing job to champion a major change in how horses and riders are allowed to move through the ranks of our sport,” said Jonathan Elliott, USEA vice-president of competitions.

“The consensus from the feedback I have received and observed is that there is a need for this change, but there are many factors to consider. In the end, this is a safety-driven rule change proposal, and we need to make sure we get it right, not perfect because that will never happen, but right.”

Mr Elliott added he believed more time was needed to continue and develop a complete proposal “with justification” for the proposed changes.

“Big strides have been accomplished over the last few years with other safety-related rule changes and the frangible technology fundraising and I am optimistic an updated [proposal] will join that evolution of our sport in 2023.”

Continued below…

Proposed US eventing rule change would bring sport more in line with Britain

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‘True champion of eventing’: US course-designer dies in accident

In 2006 he was awarded the Neil Ayer Course Designers’ Award for his service to the sport as a cross-country

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The board unanimously voted to postpone the rule change with the intention to further investigate and communicate the purpose behind the proposal.

“The board has made it clear that they will submit an amended proposal again with the intent for implementation in 2023. To this end, the USEA will establish a task force to further review the proposal, make additional inquiries into related data, and analyze the input received,” said a USEA spokesman.

“This task force will consist of representation by individuals from diverse backgrounds and geographically varied locations around the country. The goal is to have an updated rule in effect for the 2023 competition year.”

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International eventing course-designer Tremaine Cooper has died in an accident, aged 52.

Tremaine died while working outdoors near his farm in Bluemont, Virginia, on 13 March. A spokesman for the US Eventing Association (USEA) described him as a “true champion of eventing”.

“An athlete, course-designer, builder, father, husband, son, friend, and so much more,” said the spokesman.

“Tremaine’s quiet, thoughtful approach resulted in tremendous advancements for the sport of eventing in all areas but especially in the safety and design of cross-country courses.”

Tremaine was born in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1968. He grew up on a farm and started riding when he was five.

“He was a graduate ‘A’ Pony Clubber and started eventing in 1984, competing to advanced level. At an early age, Tremaine started helping out with the cross-country courses at the Pony Club rallies at his parents’ farm,” said the USEA spokesman.

“At the end of high school and through college he started building seriously and ended up constructing courses throughout the US as well as New Zealand and the UK. Tremaine then focused more on course design, earning his FEI ‘I’ licence more than 15 years ago.”

Tremaine was one of the national US Equestrian (USEF) course advisors and was involved in the educational design seminars for USEF and the FEI. He was also co-chairman of the building/design committee and sat on the USEA board of governors.

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“In 2006 he was awarded the Neil Ayer Course Designers’ Award for his service to the sport as a cross-country course designer,” said the spokesman. “Most recently Tremaine worked with the USEA staff to establish the frangible distribution program through the USEA headquarters.

“Tremaine is survived by his wife Marion, his daughter Sadie, and his son James. Also by his parents, his brother Elisha, by countless brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, and all the animals on his farm.”

A memorial will be held on 22 March at Morven Park in Leesburg, Virginia. Tremaine’s family is establishing a fund in is honour within the USEA Foundation and donations can be made via www.useadonation.org/donate quoting “In honour of Tremaine Cooper”.

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US shows are taking precautions in light of an Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1) case in the Ocala area of Florida.

Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP), which organises the Winter Equestrian Festival and Adequan Global Dressage Festival at venues in Wellington, around three hours south of Ocala, has taken action to protect horses on site.

There are currently no reported cases of EHV-1 in Wellington, and the case is not related to the neurological strain of EHV-1 currently affecting Europe.

“ESP has longstanding protocols to manage such events and will provide isolation facilities if and as required,” said a statement from the organisation.

“Experience has taught us that early identification is key when dealing with disease outbreaks, and this requires cooperation from everyone within the community.”

ESP is not accepting entries from horses who have not already competed at the festivals this year, until further notice.

While there are no known positive cases in Wellington, ESP is also restricting access to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center and Equestrian Village, where the festivals are being held, to horses within Wellington.

Anyone travelling horses into these facilities will also be required to sign a declaration, stating the horses have not competed at other Florida venues and have not been in close contact with horses that competed in other Florida venues within 10 days prior to their arrival.

From Monday (8 March), horses arriving will need a health certificate, or statement on official licensed veterinarian letterhead, signed and dated by a vet within seven days of arriving. Find out more about what this health certificate must cover.

All horses on the showground must have their temperature taken twice daily, which will be recorded and is recommended to be posted on each horse’s stable door.

ESP and US Equestrian have also “strongly recommended” that equestrians do not ship horses throughout the state for the foreseeable future.

“In addition, we encourage you to cease any European imports you may have scheduled to Florida,” adds the ESP statement.

“We urge those with recently imported horses to isolate and monitor them for 10 days. Horses imported from Europe in the last 14 days and going forward will not be allowed into [the festival] show grounds.

“Given the seriousness of the EHV-1 outbreak in Europe (the case in Ocala is similar in nature but unrelated to the neurological strain of EHV-1 impacting Valencia, Spain, and other European countries), which has unfortunately resulted in multiple horse deaths, ESP implores everyone to do their part in order to keep your own horses safe, as well as those of your fellow competitors.

“Any horse on the show grounds with a fever of unknown origin or of suspicious origin must be reported to ESP management. It is always better to err on the side of safety. Isolation stalls will either be available on the grounds or at a local veterinary practice if the need arises.

“It is our shared responsibility to keep our horses safe.”

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Organisers are also urging all equestrians to take the following biosecurity measures:

• Take all horses’ temperature daily and report any horse with a temperature above 101.5 F or any signs of respiratory or neurological disease to your veterinarian and/or show management
• Take the temperature of all horses prior to shipping to the festivals, and do not bring any febrile horses (equines who have the virus, or are showing clinical signs) to the show
• Avoid mixing of horses where possible, practice equine “social distancing”
• Ensure good hygiene and biosecurity at the show and your home farms
• Make sure your horses are currently vaccinated for influenza and EHV. Under no circumstances should a horse that has been vaccinated compete within seven days.
• You should be able to document your horse’s normal temperature before arrival. Please do not ship horses with elevated temperatures. It is recommended that you establish a log of temperatures taken at least twice daily. If there is an elevated temperature for more than a 24-hour period, please consult your local veterinarian immediately
• Every effort should be made to minimise stress and commingling of horses shipped long distances. Extra hours on a horse van or moving from stable to stable is the fastest way to compromise your horses’ and your neighbour’s horses’ health
• Please take the time to review equine good hygiene practices and impress its importance to your grooms and barn managers in everyday care

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The Olympic showjumper Ali Nilforushan has been removed from the US Center for SafeSport suspension list.

The Californian-based rider, trainer and event organiser had been temporarily suspended for “allegations of misconduct”.

In a statement on 20 February Ali, who represented Iran as an individual at the 2000 Sydney Games, said the allegations made against him had not been of a sexual nature and he “completely denied” any wrongdoing. He said the incident related to a conversation at a competition that had lasted “less than five minutes” with an individual who “appeared inebriated”.

“Fortunately three people, all of whom are willing to testify, witnessed the entire conversation and will confirm that the conversation has been falsely represented to SafeSport. I was not contacted, nor any of the witnesses, before this action was taken,” he said in the statement.

Following the removal of his name from the suspension list, Ali told H&H he was “thrilled” to be back at work, supporting the people and horses who “count on him” every day.

Continued below…

Olympic showjumper denies ‘allegations of misconduct’ after temporary suspension from sport

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“Defending a false accusation has resulted in one of the worst weeks of my life as my livelihood and reputation, both of which I cherish and have worked very hard to establish, were unfairly placed in jeopardy,” he said.

“My wife Francie Nilforushan and I will be for ever grateful for the overwhelming outpouring of support from the equestrian community, a community that very much believes truth should prevail.”

A spokesman for US Equestrian (USEF) told H&H Mr Nilforushan has been fully reinstated as a USEF member in accordance with the decision of the US Center for SafeSport.

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Update 26 February: Ali Nilforushan’s details have been removed from the SafeSport suspension list. More to follow.

Olympic showjumper Ali Nilforushan has been named on the US Center for SafeSport suspension list.

The California-based trainer and event organiser, who represented Iran as an individual at the Sydney Games in 2000, has been temporarily suspended for “allegations of misconduct”, pending the outcome of a formal investigation and final decision.

In a statement on Saturday (20 February) Ali said he had been “humbled” by the “outpouring of support” he had received.

“A matter such as this is difficult to deal with but receiving the support of my fellow equestrians has kept me positive and I am sincerely grateful for the kindness that has been expressed to me,” he said.

“Unfortunately, all of this support is because today my name was released to the US Center for SafeSport sanction list. The allegations against me are not sexual in nature at all and I completely deny any wrongdoing in this matter. I intend to defend myself vigorously until my interim suspension is lifted.”

Ali said the suspension relates to an incident involving a conversation at a competition that lasted “less than five minutes”, with an individual “who appeared inebriated”.

“Fortunately three people, all of whom are willing to testify, witnessed the entire conversation and will confirm that the conversation has been falsely represented to SafeSport. I was not contacted, nor any of the witnesses, before this action was taken,” he said.

“I look forward to a swift resolution to this unfortunate situation and resuming my normal role as a trainer and horse show manager.”

Ali’s wife, US showjumper Francie Nilforushan, said in a statement she witnessed the conversation [he refers to].

Continued below…

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“To think our livelihoods and reputations, both of which we cherish and have built over many years, could be destroyed over false accusations is terrifying,” she said.

A spokesman for United States Equestrian (USEF) told H&H the organisation takes allegations of misconduct “very seriously” and will enforce the temporary suspension.

A spokesman for the US Center for SafeSport told H&H the organisation does not discuss matters, in order to protect the integrity of the process.

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An early version of this story erroneously published an image of another Olympic showjumper, not Richard Fellers. That was in error. That showjumper has no connection to Mr. Fellers or the allegations made against him. Horse & Hound regrets the error.

US Olympic showjumper Rich Fellers and his wife Shelley have been named on the US Center for SafeSport suspension list.

The Oregon-based couple have both been temporarily suspended for “allegations of misconduct” pending the outcome of a formal investigation and final decision. It is understood the allegations relate to Rich’s former pupil 18-year-old Maggie Kehring.

Maggie, who is now based with Darragh Kenny and Hardin Towell at Oakland Stables, Wellington, Florida, issued a statement on 10 February stating that her new trainers have provided her with a “safe place to train and grow as a rider”.

“While I understand everyone wants to discuss and speculate about my previous trainer and the circumstances under which I departed, please don’t,” she said.

“I would appreciate everyone allowing me my privacy. At this point I have participated in the process that was available to me, answered the questions asked by the US Center for SafeSport, and I am moving forward and focusing on my riding and the wonderful opportunities in front of me.”

In an additional statement on the same day, Maggie claimed the investigation had been under way for many months, adding that she did not want to participate in the US Center for SafeSport process out of “confusion and fear”.

Maggie’s lawyer Russ Prince said: “This investigation started because of the legitimate concern shown by other members of US Equestrian (USEF) for Ms Kehring’s wellbeing. The investigation has been conducted over the last six or so months and Ms Kehring has only recently spoken with the US Center for SafeSport,” he said.

“Ironically Ms Kehring is now being criticised for stepping forward publicly, when the entirety of the equestrian community have been whispering about the underlying issues and allegations for months. Ms Kehring spoke up in an effort to end the constant rumour and innuendo mill she has been subjected to, and she was going to be criticised no matter the path she took.

“I assure you that while Ms Kehring may have been a victim, she is not going to allow herself to continue to be victimised by anyone. I applaud her for the strength, courage, and perseverance she has already shown. Hopefully, the public will allow her some peace and privacy to get through this difficult time.”

Rich and Shelley Fellers did not respond to H&H for comment.

Article Continued below…

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A USEF spokesman told H&H: “USEF takes allegations of misconduct very seriously, and will enforce the temporary suspensions put in place by the US Center for Safe Sport, but, most importantly, respect the privacy and confidentiality of the process for all parties involved.”

A spokesman for the US Center for SafeSport told H&H the organisation does not discuss matters, in order to protect the integrity of the process.

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A proposal to allow bitless bridles in dressage competitions in the US is being discussed by rule-makers.

The proposal was put forward on sporting fairness and welfare grounds by several riders whose horses can no longer be bitted owing to dental reasons. The call has been supported in writing by the World Bitless Association (WBA).

A WBA spokesman told H&H that it commissioned a survey in 2020, seeking feedback from equestrians with regards to rules allowing modern bitless bridles in competition, plus some welfare issues.

“The results were extremely encouraging,” said the spokesman. “Over 1,500 participants from around the world want to see significant rule changes or enforcement of the existing rules.

“In short nine out of 10 equestrians [who took part in the survey] want to see bitless [permitted] in all horse sport.”

A US Equestrian (USEF) spokesman told H&H the proposal is “moving through the review process”.

A decision is expected by the end of June, at the latest.

Article continues below…

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“Each year USEF receives numerous proposals for rule changes submitted by members, USEF senior staff, federation committees and councils, affiliates, and the federation’s officers,” said the spokesman.

“The proposals are reviewed by members, committees, councils, and affiliates before being presented to the USEF board of directors for consideration.

“If approved by the board, the changes are incorporated into the USEF rulebook in accordance with their effective date, and the updated version of the rulebook is posted on the USEF website.

“Specifically, sport-related rule change proposals and/or revisions are submitted for board discussion and approval by the international disciplines and the national breeds and disciplines councils.

“This specific proposal is currently moving through the review process, which begins at the sport committee level.

“As the national discipline affiliate, the United States Dressage Federation is given the opportunity to provide additional feedback on the proposal.

“From the committee level, the proposal will then move to the international disciplines council for further discussion before ultimately being decided upon by the USEF board of directors in June 2021.”

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A $500,000 (£364,937) fundraising target aiming to make eventing safer in the United States has been met in less than a year.

In March 2020 United States Equestrian (USEF) national safety officer and eventer Jonathan Holling called on the eventing community to raise the sum, with the aim of increasing the number of frangible fences on course. He added that in three years, there will be “no excuse” for any fence on course than can be frangible, not to be made frangible in “some way”.

The United States Eventing Association (USEA), USEA Foundation and a group of “passionate” stakeholders have raised the money thanks to donations from USEA members and eventing enthusiasts around the country. The first part of the challenge has been achieved and the country is well on the way to the second part and with continued fundraising, it can be achieved.

“This money has gone directly to 116 different USEA-recognised events with 151 frangible tables, 53 oxers, and 34 gate/wall fences already out on course – all built with grants distributed by the USEA Foundation,” said a USEA spokesman. “The first part of the challenge has been achieved and the country is well on the way to the second part and with continued fundraising, it can be achieved.”

Mr Holling said he was “so proud” to have been a “small part” of the fundraising effort.

“The resources, effort, and money that have been put forward to increase the safety of jumps on cross-country courses has been unbelievable. When I put this challenge out there, I had no idea how it would be received,” he said.

“The fact that during this year of turmoil, heartache, and uncertainty we have been able to raise these funds should give us all restored faith in each other. Great job everyone and thanks from the bottom of my heart for helping us make it #frangiblenow.”

The fundraising was given a boost in April when it was announced the Manton Foundation, a charitable fund that donates to projects in education, arts and culture and community preservation, would offer a matching grant for every dollar raised up to $250,000 (£182,468). At the end of last year $12,000 (£8758) was needed to meet the $500,000 target, so USEF stepped in to donate the remainder.

“The team at the USEA has done a tremendous job building up their frangible technology fund over the past year. They have created new educational resources, promoted safety, and provided needed grants to ensure organisers across the country have more readily available access to frangible pin technology on their cross-country courses,” said USEF president Tom O’Mara.

“USEF is pleased to contribute the final amount necessary to help them cross the finish line and complete this fundraising campaign.”

The USEA Foundation will continue to accept donations and distribute grants to events to build frangible jumps on all USEA-recognised courses.

“The foundation is very proud to have played a role in reaching the goal of $500,000 for the frangible technology fund,” said USEA Foundation chair Dian Pitts

“Enhanced safety in our sport is a primary focus of the USEA and the USEA Foundation. We are grateful to the Manton Foundation for their matching grant and to all of the members and supporters who have generously contributed to the fund.”

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Ms Pitts added that a “special” thank you went to the members of a GoFundMe page, set up by Mr Holling, who launched the fundraiser effort last March and who asked the USEA Foundation to partner in it.

“Their continued involvement and guidance has helped develop and administer the grant program. Thank you also to USEF for believing in the program and putting the fundraising over the top,” she said.

“We are very proud to see the many frangible tables on courses throughout the country that have been built with grants from the fund.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

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Olympic showjumper Kent Farrington has been crowned US Equestrian’s (USEF) international equestrian of the year 2020 – as his mare Gazelle takes the international horse honours.

The awards, voted for by USEF members, were among those presented at the virtual USEF Pegasus and Horses of the Year Awards Celebration on 16 January.

Kent was part of the silver medal-winning team at the 2016 Rio Olympics and the bronze medal-winning team at the 2014 World Equestrian Games with Voyeur. In 2019 he became the first US rider to win the CSI5* Rolex grand prix at CHIO Aachen and the Rolex grand prix at CHI Geneva in the same year with Gazelle, the 15-year-old mare he co-owns with Robin Parsky.

“Kent is one of top jumping athletes in the world, consistently producing dominant results in the United States and abroad year after year,” said a USEF spokesman.

During the 2020 season Kent and Gazelle won the $213,000 American Gold Cup grand prix CSI4* in Traverse City, Michigan. The pair also took second in the $401,000 CSI5* grand prix in Wellington, Florida.

“We are thrilled with our superstar horse who, to us, is horse of the year every year!,” said Robin Parksy.

“Gazelle has been with us for seven years and has produced wonderful results each year, taking us all over the world.”

Tracey Fenny, a hunter/jumper, took the national equestrian of the year title for achievements with MTM Animated and MTM Personal Assistant, including wins at the Ocala Winter Celebration, and the Texas Rose Horse Sport Horse Cup.

Carleton and Traci Brook’s Pritchard Hill won national horse of the year. The hunter secured numerous championship titles during the 2020 season including at the Showpark Summer Festival, Showpark Racing Festival, and the National Sunshine Series II.

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Apart from Kent Farrington taking the the William C Steinkraus trophy and Tracy Fenny receiving the Emerson Burr trophy, four other equestrians were recognised for their competitive achievements during 2020; Colby Powell won the Barbara Worth Oakford trophy, Margy Cox the Bill Robinson trophy, Joel Gangi received the CJ ‘June’ Cronan trophy and Jonathan Ramsay received the Norman K Dunn trophy. Sally Ike was honoured with the lifetime achievement award and Lucy Enns took junior equestrian of the year.

In honour of service to the sport, USEF’s president Murray Kessler was presented the Sallie Busch Wheeler trophy. Brooke USA received the USEF/EQUUS foundation humanitarian award, Debbi Long won the Walter B Devereux sportsmanship award, and the Ellen Scripps David memorial breeders’ award went to Oak Hill Ranch and Rollingwoods Farm. The Pegasus medal of honour was awarded to Dr Mark Hart and Richard ‘Dick’ Miller.

The Richard E McDebitt award of merit was presented to Larry W Alcorn, Carl Bessette, Gay Culverhouse, Carol Dean-Porter, Eve Lloyd Thompson, Patrick McGaughan, Richard Petty, Kip Rosenthal, and John William Russell.

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Tributes have been paid to the US dressage rider, trainer and author Jane Savoie, who died on 4 January, following a long illness with blood cancer.

Born in 1949, Jane was a former member of the US dressage team, representing her country in Canada, Holland, Belgium, France and Germany. She was selected as a reserve rider for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics with Zapatero. Jane was also a US Dressage Federation (USDF) bronze, silver and gold medallist, won nine US Horse of the Year awards, and three national freestyle championships.

In 1996 Jane provided dressage coaching to the Canadian eventing team for the Atlanta Olympic Games. She also coached event riders from the US, Canada and Belgium in preparation for the 2000 Sydney Olympics. In 2004 Jane accompanied the Canadian eventing team to the Athens Olympics, where several of the team riders achieved personal best dressage scores.

Jane was a renowned speaker and author. Her first book That Winning Feeling: Program Your Mind for Peak Performance was published in 1992. Her other titles included Jane Savoie’s Dressage 101, and It’s Not Just About the Ribbons.

In 2019 Jane was inducted into the USDF Hall of Fame, which represents the most influential and dedicated individuals within the sport. The organisation stated at the time Jane was a “perfect candidate” for induction.

“With Jane’s competitive experience, dedication to education, and her overall support of the sport and organisation, she embodies the criteria for this prestigious induction,“ said a USDF spokesman.

The spokesman said the organisation was “saddened” by her passing.

“A gifted motivational speaker, writer, and teacher, Savoie endeared herself to legions of riders, especially adult amateurs, with her unflagging encouragement and cheerful enthusiasm. She recognised and appreciated adult amateurs’ dedication and struggles to master the sitting trot, deal with spooky horses and show nerves, and other dressage dilemmas,” he said.

“She never condescended to adult amateurs and they loved her for it, flocking to her clinics, buying her books, and subscribing to her online dressage mentor program, where they felt they had found a friend in Savoie and her tales of life with her Friesian, Moshi, and her dog, Indy.”

The spokesman added that Jane was one of the first to bring the science of sport psychology to the equestrian world.

“She also championed dressage as useful training for every horse, as evidenced by such books as Cross-Train Your Horse and her final nonfiction work, Dressage Between the Jumps: The Secret to Improving Your Horse’s Performance,” he said.

“Always up for a challenge, Savoie took up several new endeavours later in life. She began ballroom dancing at the age of 63. Her first attempt at writing fiction, the romance novel Second Chances, set in the world of dressage, was published less than one month before her death.”

A spokesman for US Equestrian told H&H Jane’s contributions to dressage over the years are “truly immeasurable”.

“Her commitment to education and coaching has shaped the lives of many of our athletes across the United States,” he said.

“Jane not only continuously shared her knowledge with the dressage community as an established author, mentor, and trainer for all levels, but was a dedicated supporter of future generations of talent. She will be dearly missed.”

Six-time Olympian Robert Dover, who sourced Jane’s top horses Sacramento and Zapatero, described his friend of more than 40 years as “family”.

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“Jane rooted for me as much through our lives and careers together as I rooted for her,” he said.

“Her incredible positivity and zest for life were evident in all things she undertook and an incredibly strong magnet that drew everyone who met her into loving her.”

Jane is survived by her husband Rhett.

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The former United States showjumping team leader, who served for every Olympics between 1992 and 2008, and rode at Badminton and Burghley, has won the 2020 US Equestrian (USEF) lifetime achievement award.

Former international eventer Sally Ike will be presented with the award at the virtual 2020 USEF Pegasus and Horse of the Year Awards celebration on 16 January, as part of the 2021 USEF annual meeting (13-17 January).

A spokesman for USEF said Sally’s many roles have included course-designer, technical delegate, steward, and judge at numerous events across the US, as well as managing the jumping department and travelling around the world with top international US jumping teams.

She also competed at Burghley Horse Trials in 1967 and completed Badminton Horse Trials the following year on Evening Mail. Following this Sally earned an Olympic team nomination and she was selected as a non-travelling reserve for the 1968 Mexico City Olympic Games.

The spokesman said 1 September 2020 marked the “end of an area” for USEF as Sally, who had been with the organisation more than 30 years, transitioned from her post as managing director of licensed officials and education into an independent contractor role.

Badminton final scores

“Ike has been an integral part of USEF’s success and growth since 1989, working extensively with the sport department,” he said.

“She has managed countless responsibilities and held numerous titles throughout her tenure, including chef de mission, discipline director of Eventing, managing director of jumping, and director of vaulting activities. She also served as the jumping team leader for every Olympic Games, Pan American Games, World Equestrian Games, and World Cup finals from 1990 through to 2008.”

The spokesman added Sally has always been a “welcoming and dependable” supporter of all equestrian disciplines.

“Her pledge to ensure the success of USEF’s teams and programs has left a lasting impression not only on the disciplines she has been so deeply tied to throughout her career, but also on those she has mentored and worked with over the years,” he said.

USEF junior equestrian of the year

Driver Lucy Enns, who has participated in the equestrian industry both in the arena and in its governance, was named USEF junior equestrian of the year.

Lucy was a finalist in the American Morgan Horse Association (AMHA) youth of the year contest in 2019 and 2020, and serves on the AMHA youth council as vice-president of the central region.

“She is an accomplished young driver, earning five top-10 finishes with her mare Mabelene at the 2020 Morgan Grand National and World Championship Morgan Horse Show,” said the spokesman.

“She has also tried her hand at officiating, participating in multiple AMHA youth judging clinics. Enns started at Friends University in Wichita, Kansas, in August and intends to start her own Morgan breeding program.”

Lucy first competed at the Morgan Grand National and World Championship Morgan Horse Show in 2008 aged six in the leadline class.

“She was starstruck watching the show horses proudly move around the arena that night and was determined to become one of those competitors,” the spokesman said.

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“She faced many obstacles on her way to that goal. Her four older siblings all have some form of disability, so she always prioritised family and understood that her equestrian dreams would rely on hard work and her characteristic independence. She worked at her barn, the Wichita Riding Academy, and volunteered at local shows, observing people and learning about their training methods. She quickly learned that difficult decisions are part of life with horses when two of her competition horses got sick and ultimately needed to be put down.”

The spokesman added that Lucy tried many different disciplines to find what Mabelene “loved to do”.

“They finally found their niche in 2020 when Enns started training Mabel to drive with the support of Jim McCune,” he said. “Everything fell into place at the Morgan Grand National where the pair earned third place in the carriage pleasure driving single World Championship. She was very pleased with the result but was most elated to be back in the competition ring after working so hard to be there again.”

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United States Equestrian (USEF) and the Word Equestrian Center (WEC) in Florida will “work together in the best interest of the sport” in order for the centre to host sanctioned competitions.

The news follows an earlier dispute in which the USEF withdrew all WEC hunter/jumper competition licences after the centre announced plans to host shows sanctioned by the National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) as part the Ocala Winter Spectacular, a 12-week winter hunter/jumper show circuit from 6 January to 28 March.

In an open letter on 11 November, USEF said WEC’s arrangement of combining USEF and NSBA competitions in the same 12-week series was “confusing” to participants and officials, and “jeopardised” horse and human safety and welfare. USEF notified the FEI that these events were unauthorised, meaning the FEI could decide whether it would apply the unsanctioned event rule. This states that any FEI official, registered athlete or horse who participates in an unsanctioned event faces up to six months of ineligibility to participate in FEI competitions and so also national competitions.

On the same day WEC said in a “show of good faith” and in an effort to work with the federation, the centre would release an updated schedule and prize list with $4m (£2,950,000) in prizes and prize money, and free stabling.

In a joint statement between USEF and WEC on 30 December the organisations said they had “agreed to work together” on a plan for the centre to host USEF-sanctioned competitions in the future.

“USEF and WEC agree that it is in the best interest of the sport for them to work collaboratively,” read the statement.

“Formulating this plan will require some time for both USEF and WEC to meet and consider what is best for equestrian sport and all of its stakeholders, while prioritising horse and rider welfare, and operating under the rules that govern all USEF organisers”.

The statement added that to allow time for the process, USEF has withdrawn its request to the FEI to declare the 2021 Ocala Winter Classic Spectacular unsanctioned, so riders, officials and horses may compete without being sanctioned by the FEI or USEF.

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“Assuming development of a mutually agreed upon plan, WEC has agreed not to host any other new competitions that are not authorised by USEF. USEF recognises WEC’s existing relationship with the NSBA and that WEC will endeavour to include NSBA within such authorised competitions,” it read.

“In agreeing to this interim measure, the USEF considered how important it was for its members to have abundant competition opportunities this winter following a period during which many events were cancelled because of Covid-19.”

The organisations said the “shared goal” is to have a plan agreed in the coming weeks, which will then be shared publicly.

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The new state-of-the-art World Equestrian Center (WEC) in Florida, USA, will not host competitions governed by US Equestrian (USEF) – as the national federation has withdrawn its competition licences following a dispute.

On 27 October the Ocala-based facility released details of the Ocala Winter Spectacular, a 12-week winter hunter/jumper show circuit featuring $9 million prize money, scheduled to take place from 6 January to 28 March 2021. The series had been due to host two weeks’ of USEF premier-rated classes, including 13 CSI3* classes, followed by 10 weeks of competition sanctioned by the National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA).

In an open letter published on 11 November, USEF chief executive William Moroney said he hoped to “eliminate any confusion” regarding the series. Mr Moroney explained the WEC had requested approval to hold 12 USEF licensed shows, and in accordance with USEF rules four weeks of competitions’ were approved demonstrating the governing body’s “good faith” in working with organisers under the criteria of the rulebook. He added that opportunities to grant lower level events were also identified.

“Additionally, USEF supported the addition of new events to the FEI calendar and the allocation of the FEI jumping Nations Cup, even though this is the first year of operation of this venue, and the organizer has never hosted an FEI event,” he said.

Mr Moroney said “unfortunately” WEC had announced plans to mix competitions sanctioned by the USEF and the NSBA. The NSBA is not an affiliate of USEF meaning it does not operate under the national federation’s rules including class specifications, field of play rules, scoring and “most importantly USEF rules protecting horse and human health and safety”.

“USEF has determined that WEC’s arrangement combining both USEF and NSBA competitions in the same 12-week series is confusing to participants and officials, and most importantly, jeopardizes horse and human safety and welfare,” he said.

“Due to these concerns USEF has no choice but to withdraw all WEC hunter/jumper competition licenses it previously granted in connection with the Ocala Winter Spectacular.”

Mr Moroney added any competitions that proceed as part of the series will have no affiliation with USEF or its rules.

“Due to the same health and safety concerns mentioned, and in furtherance of the best interests of the sport, USEF will not be granting a license to WEC for the jumping Nations Cup qualifier and we have informed the FEI accordingly. The FEI will make the final decision on this event.

“We have notified the FEI these events are unauthorized. Presumably, the FEI will also decide whether it will apply its unsanctioned event rule which states any FEI official, registered athlete or horse that participates in an unsanctioned event faces up to six months of ineligibility to participate in FEI competitions and thereby national competitions. In accordance with the ‘unsanctioned event’ rule FEI officials, registered athletes, and owners of registered horses will be notified no later than seven days prior to the start of any unsanctioned event.”

Mr Moroney added USEF rules and regulations, including the drugs and medication rules and Safe Sport Code, exist to ensure the safety and welfare of participants, as well as a “fair and level playing field” in the best interests of the sport and Olympic teams.

“USEF stands firmly behind these rules and regulations,” he said.

In an open letter published on the same day, Roby Roberts of WEC said during subsequent conversations with the USEF after announcing the 12-week series, the governing body informed the centre it was “unwilling” to work with the WEC should organisers decide to move forward with NSBA sanctioned shows. It is unclear which letter was published first and H&H has contacted both organisations for clarification.

“In a show of good faith and in an effort to work with the federation, we will release an updated schedule and prize list offering $4 million in prizes and prize money during the 12-week competition,” said Mr Roberts .

Mr Roberts said in lieu of the additional prize money, and in an effort to support and promote the entire equestrian community, it will provide free stabling to horses for competing horses for the entire circuit, valued at more than $6 million.

“We feel the free stall [stable] offering will aid in promoting the financial offerings to all exhibitors regardless of their competition level or experience versus focusing prize money on only specific classes. The free stalls will also help promote an atmosphere where trainers and riders can more easily promote young horses and sales,” he said.

Mr Roberts said with the additions, the centre is now offering more than $10 million of prize money, prizes and stabling.

“For exhibitors concerned with the repercussions of participating in an event unsanctioned by the federation, know that the federation does not have a rule that would prevent you from competing with us this winter,” he said.

“We are aware of the FEI rule that states any athlete, horse, or official that participates in an unsanctioned event may be ineligible to participate in sanctioned events for a specific period of time. This rule pertains strictly to FEI officials, athletes, and horses competing at an international or national level.”

Mr Roberts added this is a “difficult time” with Covid and the current economy of the United States.

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“WEC is an organization committed to supporting the equestrian community and safeguarding the welfare of equine and human athletes,” he said.

“We will do our very best to welcome exhibitors of all levels to Ocala this winter for safe, fun, and affordable horse showing.”

An FEI spokesman told H&H the organisation has “taken note” of the USEF position on WEC and will discuss it at the FEI board meeting next week.

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US equestrian coach George H Morris’ appeal against a lifetime ban from equestrian sport has been unsuccessful.

The ban was handed down by US Center for SafeSport on 5 August following the investigation of claims of sexual misconduct involving a minor. At the time Mr Morris issued a statement stating he contested the findings “wholeheartedly” and was in the “process of disputing” them.

An independent arbitration took place on 7 and 8 November in New York, and Mr Morris’ status on the SafeSport’s website has since been amended from “pending appeal” to “permanently ineligible”.

The US Center for SafeSport told H&H while it would not be commenting on the matter itself, chief executive officer Ju’Riese Colón, made the following statement:

“No matter how big a figure is in their sport, or how old the allegations, nobody is above accountability. Athletes and other sport participants must be empowered to stand up for what’s right and speak out against what they know to be wrong.

“The center’s fair process is a critical part of making that a reality because it gives participants confidence they will be heard, which is essential to making wellbeing the centerpiece of sport culture.

Ms Colón said the center conducts “thorough“ investigations before rendering a sanction such as a lifetime suspension.

“The victims in these matters not only suffered the abuse they first report, they often bravely survive countless attacks, even in their sport, for having the courage to speak up,” she said. “Such a response is wrong on many levels, including the fact that it re-victimises those who already suffered more than anyone should. We cannot allow this behaviour to continue as it undermines all that’s great about sport participation.

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“While the center does not comment on specific matters, it wants all survivors, including those who came forward in this instance, to know that the SafeSport code is in place to prevent abuse, provide a voice for those who need one, and hold abusers accountable. The decision to restrict an individual’s ability to participate in sport is not taken lightly, which is why the process is exhaustive and includes many provisions to ensure fairness so both claimants and responding parties are given amble opportunity to speak for themselves, provide evidence, seek counsel and be heard in front of another independent body.”

During his competitive career Mr Morris won a silver medal at the 1960 Olympics in Rome. He became the US Olympic showjumping chef d’equipe in 2005 and led the team to triumph in the 2005 Samsung Super League series. The team also won silver at the 2006 World Equestrian Games, gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and team gold, individual gold and silver medals at the 2011 Pan Am Games. He moved from the US team after the London 2012 Games to lead Brazil’s efforts for the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Mr Morris did not respond to H&H’s request for comment.

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Top equestrian coach George H. Morris has said he will appeal against a lifetime ban from equestrian sport, handed down by US Center for SafeSport following claims of “sexual misconduct involving a minor”.

News of the permanent ban (subject to appeal) of the former United States Olympic showjumping chef d’equipe, Olympian and popular coach broke after the details were added to the US Centre for SafeSport’s website and the US Equestrian website yesterday (Monday 5 August).

In a statement issued to Horse & Hound, US Equestrian said: “The U.S. Center for SafeSport has issued a lifetime ban of equestrian trainer, judge and former USEF showjumping technical advisor George H. Morris for violating the SafeSport Code.

“The Center investigated the allegations against Mr Morris, found them credible, issued their ruling, and banned Mr Morris for life. US Equestrian and its affiliates will enforce this ban, which is subject to appeal.”

US Equestrian, which introduced policies and procedures to protect and educate its membership about safe sport in 2013, continued: “We want every athlete, parent, coach, support staff, and trainer to know, if you are a survivor of abuse or suspect abuse of any kind, there are resources and people to help.”

In a statement published on his website, Mr Morris, 81, said: “I am deeply troubled by the U.S. Center for SafeSport’s findings regarding unsubstantiated charges for events that allegedly occurred between 1968 & 1972. I contest these findings wholeheartedly and am in the process of disputing them.

“I have devoted my life to equestrian sport and the development of future riders, coaches and Olympians. Any allegations that suggest I have acted in ways that are harmful to any individual, the broader equestrian community, and sport that I love dearly are false and hurtful.

“I share our community’s commitment to protecting the safety and wellbeing of all our athletes who need reliable guidance and encouragement at every level, of which I have provided for over 50 years. I will continue, as I always have, to proudly support equestrianism and its continued development around the world.”

Continued below…

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During his competitive career Mr Morris won a silver medal at the 1960 Olympics in Rome. He took on the role of Olympic showjumping chef d’equipe in 2005 and led the team to triumph in the 2005 Samsung Super League series. The team also won silver at the 2006 World Equestrian Games, gold at the 2008 Olympic Games, plus gold and individual gold and silver medals at the 2011 Pan Am Games.

He moved from the US team after the London 2012 Games to lead Brazil’s efforts for the 2016 Rio Olympics. He is the author of a number of training books and is widely regarded as one of the top showjumping trainers in the world.

*Updated: 8.40pm on Tuesday 6 August to add US Equestrian’s official statement

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A 13-year-old girl and her horse have died following a cross-country schooling accident.

US teenager Ashley Stout and her horse, Avant Garde, were training at Standing Ovation Equestrian Center (SOEC) in Halfmoon Township, Pennsylvania when the accident happened on 11 July. It is believed they had a rotational fall.

A statement from the centre said: “Tonight we mourn an unfathomable loss; two incredibly beautiful souls. Words cannot express. Life is so precious and fragile.

“Ashley Stout may you & Avant Garde jump through the clouds together for eternity.”

The young rider had been a member of the US Eventing Association (USEA) since 2016 and successfully evented during the past three years.

She started riding Avant Garde, a seven-year-old Westphalian gelding, in the spring and the pair jumped clear across country in their 15 USEA starts together.

They won the junior/young rider open training division (equivalent to BE100 level) at the New Jersey region’s horse trials in June and were second in the preliminary/training (equivalent to novice dressage and showjumping, with BE100 cross-country) at Bucks County Horse Park horse trials last month.

In 2017, she won a national title, taking the junior beginner novice under-14 section at the USEA American Eventing Championships, riding Deo Volente. The combination finished on their dressage score of 19.8 in the competition, which is run at BE80 level.

Ashley and Avant Garde had been chosen to ride on the area II young rider training three-day team at Rebecca Farm this month.

A statement from USEA said the area II young rider programme is promoting the use of the hashtag “#ride4Ashley” in her memory.

“The USEA sends its heartfelt condolences to all of Stout’s parents, Susan and Craig, family, friends, and connections,” added the statement.

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The United States’ lead endurance body’s stand against controversial “desert racing-style” endurance has backfired, leaving its riders with the prospect of no FEI rides on home soil.

Last week the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) voted to disaffiliate from US Equestrian (USEF) at the end of 2019. But within hours USEF announced it was suspending AERC immediately, initiating permanent termination proceedings.

USEF is setting up a task force to examine new ways of running its FEI ride calendar outside AERC. Like all the FEI’s 133 member national federations, USEF must guarantee the conduct and regulation of all its international shows and events.

AERC president Monica Chapman was not optimistic about the chances of finding replacement organisers – the US’s smaller, more regional groups could not afford to run stand-alone FEI rides.

She said: “AERC is happy to continue to co-sanction rides with FEI/USEF. We put the 1 December, 2019 end date [for affiliation] to ensure the rides already scheduled for the 2019 season would not be cancelled.”

AERC was founded in 1972 and has nearly 5,000 members. Most of AERC’s 200-plus national rides take place over scenic natural trails, while the traditional sport is battling for survival against the high-speed endurance promoted by the Middle East.

Seven FEI rides were listed for the US this season, the only opportunity for the country’s riders to qualify for 2020 FEI world championships without the expense of travelling abroad.

AERC has been speaking out about Middle Eastern endurance for the past five years, and has been frustrated that USEF did not support them publicly.

Last September, AERC asked USEF to withdraw funding for rides outside the US, and to present AERC’s concerns and online petition to the FEI. However, USEF first wanted to wait for the FEI Equine Community Integrity Unit report into the cancelled WEG ride, and now for the findings of the new FEI temporary committee, chaired by Britain’s Dr Sarah Coombs, which are due in April.

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AERC also disputes USEF’s right to enforce new conditions on AERC, and withheld its affiliation fee.

USEF rejected AERC’s transitional year proposal because it could not be “certain that AERC will comply with USEF’s affiliate requirements, including compliance with bylaws, rules, decisions of the Hearing Committee, and not impeding athletes’ ability to participate in international competitions.”

AERC had hoped for an agreeable separation with ongoing communication about horse welfare, drug testing and safe sport.

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The United States eventing squad for the FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG) 2018 has been revealed.

Five combinations have been selected to represent the US at Tryon, North Carolina, from 11 to 23 September, with a further eight combinations named on the reserve list.

WEG test event winners Phillip Dutton and the 10-year-old gelding Z head the list. The pair finished fourth at the Kentucky Three-Day-Event CCI4* in April and have finished inside the top six at their past seven international events, including two wins.

Phillip is also on the reserve list with the 14-year-old warmblood I’m Sew Ready.

Lauren Kieffer has been selected with the 11-year-old anglo-Arab Vermiculus, and is also on the reserve list with her established four-star campaigner Veronica.

Marilyn Little and the 13-year-old RF Scandalous have also been selected. The mare has an impressive international record, including 10 wins at one- to three-star level and placings at CCI4*.

Boyd Martin has received his fifth major championship call-up, named on the squad with the 11-year-old trakehner gelding Tsetserleg.

Lynn Symansky completes the five with her retrained racehorse, Donner (pictured, top). The combination finished sixth at Kentucky this spring and at Burghley 2017. They have jumped clear across country at all eight of their four-star starts, including Badminton in 2016 and Burghley 2015.

This year’s WEG takes place at Tryon in North Carolina on 11-23 September.

Article continues below…

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The full US eventing squad is as follows:

• Phillip Dutton and Z, the 10-year-old Zangersheide gelding owned by Thomas Tierney, Simon Roosevelt, Suzanne Lacy, Caroline Moran, and Ann Jones
• Lauren Kieffer and Vermiculus, Jacqueline Mars’s 11-year-old Anglo Arab gelding
• Marilyn Little and RF Scandalous, the 13-year-old Oldenburg mare owned by Jacqueline Mars, Michael Manders, and Phoebe Manders
• Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg, Christine Turner’s 11-year-old trakehner gelding
• Lynn Symansky and Donner, The Donner Syndicate, LLC’s 15-year-old thoroughbred gelding

Reserves:

• Will Coleman and OBOS O’Reilly, Four Star Eventing Group’s 15-year-old Irish sport horse gelding
• Will Coleman and Tight Lines, The Conair Syndicate’s 11-year-old French thoroughbred gelding
• Phillip Dutton and I’m Sew Ready, Kristine and John Norton’s 14-year-old Dutch warmblood gelding
  Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z, The Deniro Z Syndicate’s 10-year-old KWPN gelding
• Lauren Kieffer and Veronica, Team Rebecca, LLC’s 16-year-old Dutch warmblood mare
• Kim Severson and Cooley Cross Border, The Cross Syndicate’s 11-year-old Irish sport horse gelding
• Lynn Symansky and Under Suspection, Mary Ann Ghadban’s 14-year-old Holsteiner mare
• Sharon White and Cooley on Show, her 11-year-old Irish sport horse gelding

In this week’s Horse & Hound magazine, out on Thursday 28 June 2018, don’t miss our full report from the Hickstead Derby meeting, including all the showjumping and showing action, plus don’t miss our six-page report from Royal Ascot.

We also have a feature on the much discussed whip rules across the disciplines and in this week’s ‘Vet clinic’ we find out how to spot the signs of sand colic.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

British Olympic gold medal-winning eventer Leslie Law has taken up a coaching position for the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF).

Leslie, who has been in based in America since 2006, is the new eventing developing rider coach and will oversee the Eventing 25 and Eventing 18 programmes.

“This is an exciting next step for the programme,” said US eventing team coach David O’Connor.

“Leslie brings a wealth of experience and will provide great leadership for the next generations.”

As well as winning individual gold at the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Leslie also won two Olympic team silvers, two European team golds and team bronze at the World Equestrian Games (WEG) in 2002.

Leslie, who is based in Ocala in Florida, was one of seven applicants for the position. A committee then selected Mike Huber and Leslie as the two finalists for the job. Both men were then evaluated on their teaching skills and interviewed.

In 2011 Leslie was shortlisted for the role as US eventing chef d’equipe but David was appointed.

America finished 11th at last year’s Alltech FEI WEG, meaning the country has not yet qualified for the 2016 Olympics.

David O’Connor said in a meeting with high performance riders in December that hiring a developing coach would give him more time to work with the listed riders.

Leslie spoke at the United States Eventing Association’s annual meeting last month, stating that America had the resources to return to winning medals.

“You have a wealth of top horsemen, riders, owners, top vets, top technology — every single resource one needs to be a top rider,” he said.

“Let’s create a stage and competitions that will attract the world’s top class competitors here, and I think it will bridge the gap you want to close between you and Europe and put you back on the podium where you belong.”

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David O’Connor has been selected to follow in Mark Phillips’ footsteps as US eventing chef d’equipe.

The decision now just needs to be rubber stamped by the USEF High Performance working group before being presented to the USEF executive committee.

Both O’Connor and former Olympic gold medalist for Great Britain, Leslie Law, were shortlisted for the position at the beginning of the year.

O’Connor was individual gold medalist at the Sydney Olympics and he coached the Canadian eventing squad to team silver at last year’s World Equestrian Games.

A press release from USEF read: “The depth of quality of the applicant field was impressive — it included some of the biggest legends in the sport and after extensive research, thorough discussions and candid interviews the Eventing Eligible Athlete committee unanimously voted to recommend O’Connor.”

Under Mark Phillips’ leadership, the US eventing team has won medals at four Pan American Games, four World Equestrian Games and four Olympic Games.

O’Connor will take over at the helm from 2013.

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British Olympic gold-winning eventer Leslie Law is through to the last two in the race to be United States eventing team chef d’equipe/technical advisor, from 2013.

Leslie, who moved to the States in 2005 and US Olympic gold-medallist eventer David O’Connor, who will coach the Canadians until December 2012, are through to the final phase.

The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) received nine applications from six different nations for this job and six were interviewed by the “search committee” over the past two weeks.

“The applicant group was extremely qualified with over thirty Olympic, Pan American, European Championship, and World Equestrian Games medals between them,” said a spokesman.

Leslie and David will face the athletes at an open rider meeting on Thursday, March 10, at Red Hills Horse Trials in Tallahassee, Florida.

Then the USEF Eventing Eligible Athlete Committee will conduct a second round of interviews with the pair and their recommendation will be passed to the Eventing High Performance Committee.

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The United Stated Equestrian Federation (USEF) has set up a search committee to find a jumping chef d’equipe, to take over the reins from George H Morris in 2013.

The committee will be chaired by USEF judge Eric Straus and includes riders Karen O’Connor and Beezie Madden.

Morris led the U.S. Team to Silver at the 2006 World Equestrian Games and Gold at the 2008 Olympic Games

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The US Equestrian Federation (USEF) has halved the amount of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) permitted in competition horses.

From December 2011, the equivalent of only one sachet of bute will be allowed in national equestrian competition, as opposed to two which has been allowed up until now.

A statement released yesterday by the USEF equine drugs and medication programme said:

“Over the years ongoing veterinary research has revealed that not only is there little or no benefit to administering more than one NSAID to a horse for most medical concerns, it can actually cause potentially harmful, even severe side effects.”

To ease riders, vets and owners into the new rule, anyone administering two sachets of bute to a horse within five days of taking part in affiliated competition must file a NSAID disclosure form with the event.

The about-turn is likely to cause considerable comment among the horse world — particularly from those who are against the use of NSAIDs in equestrian sport.

The USEF voted in support of the International Equestrian Federation’s (FEI) plans to re-introduce NSAIDs in to horse sport last November.

The FEI’s decision on the levels to be allowed — the equivalent of two sachets of bute — was based on existing USEF rules.

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The disciplinary hearing of Amy Tryon — the US team rider accused of abusing her Rolex Kentucky ride, Le Samurai — is taking place today. Miss Tryon will give evidence to the judicial committee of the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) in Lausanne, Switzerland on Monday (25 June).

Le Samurai went badly lame on the cross-country course at the Rolex Kentucky three-day event on 28 April. The pair finished the course but Le Samurai had lost the supporting ligaments in his front leg and was put down a week later. Miss Tryon was disqualified and the case referred to the FEI.

The story has caused huge debate around the world after a video of the moment Le Samurai went lame was posted on YouTube.

An FEI spokesman told H&H a decision was “unlikely” on Monday but would be sent out “as soon as it becomes available”.

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Amy Tryon, the rider of event horse Le Samurai, has until tomorrow (17 May) to decide whether she wants her case of alleged abuse to be referred to an FEI tribunal.

US team rider Amy Tryon is currently at the centre of an alleged abuse case after finishing the cross-country course at Rolex Kentucky three-day event on 28 April despite her horse, Le Samurai, going badly lame before the final fence.

Afterwards, the course vet found Le Samurai to have “lost the supporting ligaments in his front leg”. The event’s ground jury disqualified Miss Tryon, and referred the case to the international Equestrian Federation’s (FEI) judicial committee.

On Monday, the FEI confirmed to H&H that it has received the official reports and video footage from organisers at Kentucky.

Le Samurai was put down on Saturday 5 May following advice from vets. He was being treated at the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Lexington.

The FEI has notified Amy Tryon through the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) of her right to be heard before a panel of the FEI Tribunal.

An FEI spokesman told H&H: “Ms Tryon’s response and that of the tribunal panel will determine whether and when a hearing will be scheduled. She has been given until 17 May to inform us whether she would like such a hearing. An update will be released in due course.”

• www.usef.org
• www.horsesport.org

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The American event horse Le Samurai has been put down following advice from vets.

Le Samurai was being treated at the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Lexington after going badly lame at the Rolex Kentucky three-day event on 28 April. His rider, Amy Tryon, is now at the centre of an investigation by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI).

At the weekend, the horse’s owners, Jerome and Rebecca Broussard, announced at that Le Samurai, also known as “Sparky”, had been put down.

They said: “From the outset we have been determined to give this magnificent horse the best veterinary treatment available, but only so long as the continuation of that treatment remained consistent with Sparky’s best interests.

“Regrettably, the veterinarians treating him have advised us that a successful outcome is not possible.”

Le Samurai finished the cross-country at Rolex Kentucky, but afterwards was found by the course vet to have “lost the supporting ligaments in his front leg”. The event’s ground jury disqualified Miss Tryon, and referred the case to the FEI judicial committee.

The story has caused huge debate on website forums around the world.

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The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) said last night it will guide its team rider, Amy Tryon, through the FEI hearing process and enforce any decision taken by the organisation over the injury to her horse, Le Samurai. The gelding went badly lame on the cross-country course at the Rolex Kentucky three-day event last weekend.

The International Equestrian Federation (FEI) is currently reviewing the incident, which took place on 28 April. The FEI has requested a statement from Rolex Kentucky’s ground jury and appeal committee. A hearing will then be conducted at which a tape of the incident will be reviewed.

In a statement to the press, the USEF said: “A schedule for this hearing and judgement has not yet been set. The USEF will honour that decision, abide by it and enforce it.”

The statement continued: “Amy Tryon is devastated by this tragic injury to her partner, Le Samurai. She has been an outstanding representative of the United States, winning many medals in many international competitions including the Olympics and the World Equestrian Games. Amy is respected worldwide as a kind and generous horsewoman and an athlete of great character and principle.”

Amy Tryon led the dressage on Le Samurai, but the horse went lame before the last cross-country fence. When the pair finished, the event vet found Le Samurai to have “lost the supporting ligaments in his front leg”.

A film of the incident was available on the video-sharing website, YouTube, but it has since been removed following a copyright claim. The incident has lead to entensive debate on H&H’s online forum.

The USEF has also said that Le Samurai continues to “rest comfortably” at the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Lexington.

Photo by Julia Sherwood

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now