2025 US EQUESTRIAN
ANNUAL REPORT
US Equestrian serves as the
NATIONAL GOVERNING BODY FOR EQUESTRIAN SPORT IN THE UNITED STATES serving the needs of equestrians across multiple breeds & disciplines. The organization represents over
82,700 ACTIVELY COMPETING MEMBERS, over 5,700 subscriber members & over 465,700 engaged equestrian fans
W H O PA R T I C I PAT E I N
29 BREEDS & DISCIPLINES
THROUGH 16 RECOGNIZED AFFILIATES.
Copyright © The United States Equestrian Federation All Rights Reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher. United States Equestrian Federation 4001 Wing Commander Way Lexington, Ky 40511 usef.org 92 || US Equestrian Federation
CONTENTS Introduction
4
Mission & Vision
4
CEO Message
5
President’s Message
7
Board of Directors
8
Staff
9
Governance Structure
10
USEF Recognized Affiliate Associations
10
Member & Affiliate Benefits
14
USEF MemberPerks
15
Membership & Programs
16
Horse Recording
16
Equine & Human Anti-Doping
16
Competitions & Compliance
16
Officials
17
Sport Program Highlights
20
Marketing & Promotions
24
Key 2025 Statistics
24
USEF National Championships
30
USET Foundation
30
Final Note
30
Cover Photo: Leslie Potter/US Equestrian
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PHOTOS: ISABELLE WHITESIDE/US EQUESTRIAN, LESLIE POTTER/US EQUESTRIAN, ISABELLE WHITESIDE/US EQUESTRIAN OPPOSITE: EVIV ENDURANCE
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INTRODUCTION The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) was created in 2003 and serves as the National Governing Body for Equestrian sport in the United States serving the needs of equestrians across multiple breeds and disciplines. USEF’s mission is to “Provide access to and increase participation in equestrian sports at all levels by ensuring fairness, safety, and enjoyment” and our vision is to “Bring the Joy of Horse Sports to as many people as possible.” USEF is a member organization representing close to 82,700 actively competing members, over 5,700 subscriber members, and over 465,700 engaged equestrian fans who participate in 29 breeds and disciplines, through 16 Recognized Affiliates. USEF has grown in importance and influence in equestrian sport. USEF became the National Governing Body for equestrian sport in the United States under the provisions of the Ted Stevens Olympic and Amateur Sports Act of 1978. This designation, our close relationships with Affiliates, and our work with other organizations such as the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, U.S. Center for Safe Sport, the American Horse Council, and the American Association of Equine Practitioners has added to the prominence of our collective voice. This has enabled USEF to lead the way in working on federal legislation to protect our horses and our athletes. USEF has continually increased benefits for all constituencies of our membership, including affiliates. Through sponsorships, we have been able to create discounts and special rates for our members on a strong stable of equestrian-related products including farm equipment, feed, tack, attire, and services. Through strategic partnerships, USEF is able to offer its members valuable and comprehensive health and related insurance products with extremely affordable premiums. Awards and recognition are an important component of our benefits program and through our Horse of the Year program and Pegasus Awards, USEF offers an opportunity for owners, trainers/coaches, athletes, horses, and youth participants to earn recognition for their amazing achievements. USEF welcomes all enthusiasts, whether fans or competitors, to be part of a fantastic community of dedicated equestrians.
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MISSION To provide access to and increase participation in equestrian sports at all levels by ensuring fairness, safety, and enjoyment. VISION To bring the joy of horse sports to as many people as possible. USEF VALUES Everything we do is guided by our values of Fairness, Safety, Welfare, and Enjoyment for both our horses and members.
CEO MESSAGE
PHOTOS: ISABELLE WHITESIDE/US EQUESTRIAN, GENIE IMGAES, HOWARD SCHATZBERG, ISABELLE WHITESIDE/US EQUESTRIAN
Dear USEF Members, 2025 was an extremely busy year in equestrian sport. Key metrics that inform us about the health of our sport were higher including competing and subscriber memberships, fans, licensed officials, and competition participation. The number of fans has grown significantly, indicating that more people are being exposed to equestrian sport across the 29 breeds and disciplines governed by USEF. We strongly believe that increased awareness will result in greater participation in our sport. A portion of this growth results from increased content on the USEF Network and our broadcasts on ESPN. It’s exciting to see that people worldwide are viewing ESPN broadcasts, including at airports, sports bars, and restaurants, where they can see our breeds and disciplines performing at their best and inspiring people of all ages to be fans and supporters of equestrian. Equestrian sport has faced challenges head on this year in the areas of biosecurity, equine and human safety and welfare, and proposed amendments to the Horse Protection Act (Act). While the Act was believed to have centered around three specific breeds of horses, it also included language impacting all horses. This language has existed for many years, however changes in USDA staffing resulted in changes to the interpretation of the Act, giving rise to concern over how inspections would impact the operation of events. The American Horse Council (AHC), led by Julie Broadway, has been a fantastic collaborator and leader in this space. Additionally, the AHC and USEF Veterinarian Katie Flynn, have been instrumental in working with USDA on biosecurity and equine import/export protocols, issues critical to the sustainability of the sport we love. While many try to imitate, nothing compares to a USEF competition. Based on the foundation of fairness, safety, and enjoyment, USEF provides the framework of organized
sport so that you can concentrate on your craft, knowing that we are taking care of making sure you and your horse have a positive and meaningful experience. Horse and human safety and welfare are the number one priority at USEF and our team works diligently each and every day to make this happen. We are here when you need us! Looking ahead to 2026, we will be spending even more time on the road, visiting you and your horses at USEF competitions across the country, and at all levels. As a community, we can unite to ensure our sport is sustainable for generations to come. Best wishes for a successful 2026.
Best Regards,
Bill Moroney USEF Chief Executive Officer
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE I continue to be inspired by our equestrian community. It is your passion for and dedication to the horse that keeps this community united and the sport thriving. US Equestrian members come from all walks of life, from all across America. It proves that no matter where you call home, there is always room for horses in your life. As we close out 2025, and look ahead to the new year, I am excited for what the future holds. Here’s to each of our personal equestrian villages made up of our families, our friends, our trainers and most importantly…. our horses! Happy New Year…2026, the year of the horse!
Thomas F.X. O’Mara, USEF President
PHOTOS: DEVYN IVY MEDIA
What a year it has been! Both membership and competition numbers were up in 2025, and thanks to increased content on USEF Network and increased coverage provided by ESPN and other digital outlets, the fanbase for equestrian sport continues to grow. We are reaching audiences worldwide and exposing new audiences to the best our breeds and disciplines have to offer. We were so excited to launch the US Equestrian Open Series in 2025, and the results were beyond our expectations. After March’s thrilling Jumping final at Wellington International in Florida, fall brought us the Eventing final at Morven Park, Virginia and the Dressage Final at the Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, California. Congratulations to all the winners and competitors, and our sincerest thanks to the spectators and members who were engaged in the US Equestrian Open this year. We look forward to what 2026 brings for this historic series across the three disciplines. US Equestrian remains committed to human and equine welfare and safety, and we continue to ramp up activities and initiatives that support that commitment. Throughout 2025, US Equestrian hosted a series of in-person horse welfare town halls, gathering feedback from riders, trainers, officials, and parents about policies and possible rule changes to improve the well-being of our equine partners. We took feedback received during these discussions incredibly seriously – the most impactful of which will inspire new initiatives to further support equine welfare and human safety. Plans are already underway to continue these in-person town halls at various competition locations throughout 2026 to keep the conversation going and further engage with the membership.
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS As of December 1, 2025
Subject to change after the USEF Annual Meeting in January of 2025
OFFICERS TERM Thomas O’Mara, President 1/2029 Judith Werner, Vice President
1/2027
Judith Sloan, Secretary/Treasurer
1/2027
INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS Diane Pitts
1/2027
Jon Kreitz 1/2029
ELECTED ATHLETES Jacob Arnold 1/2028 Eleanor Brimmer 1/2027 Sydney Elliott 1/2029 Beezie Madden 1/2028 Joseph Mattingley 1/2027 Chester Weber 1/2030 Sharon White 1/2029
INTERNATIONAL DISCIPLINES COUNCIL MEMBERS Max Amaya 1/2030 Will Faudree 1/2028 Lisa Gorretta 1/2028
NATIONAL BREEDS & DISCIPLINES COUNCIL MEMBERS Ling Fu Wylie 1/2029 Deborah Johnson 1/2027 Britt McCormick 1/2030 Melissa Moore 1/2028
USET FOUNDATION MEMBER Philip Richter 1/2026
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STAFF There are 144 staff members who support the programs and operations of US Equestrian located in three offices. Our main headquarters is located at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY. Our ancillary offices include Gladstone, NJ and Columbus, OH. Each of our ancillary offices is connected to the main headquarters through a shared network and phone/email servers. The Senior Staff Team includes the following:
EXECUTIVE Bill Moroney, Chief Executive Officer || bmoroney@usef.org
LEGAL & OPERATIONS Sonja Keating, General Counsel & COO || skeating@usef.org
FINANCE Mike Delahanty, Chief Financial Officer || mdelahanty@usef.org
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS Vicki Lowell, Chief Marketing & Content Officer || vlowell@usef.org
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Justin Provost, Chief Information Officer || jprovost@usef.org
SPORT David O’Connor, Chief of Sport || doconnor@usef.org
PHOTO: HOWARD SCHATZBERG COURTSEY CMHA
FEI SPORT Hallye Griffin, Director of FEI Sport || hgriffin@usef.org
NATIONAL BREEDS & DISCIPLINES SPORT Karen Homer-Brown, Director || khbrown@usef.org
VETERINARY AND D&M Dr. Stephen Schumacher, Chief Administrator || sschumacher@usef.org
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USEF RECOGNIZED AFFILIATE ASSOCIATIONS STRUCTURE US Equestrian is comprised of a Board of Directors, three Councils including Member Services, National Breeds & NonFEI Disciplines and International (FEI) Disciplines, and over forty Committees and Working Groups involving administrative and sport functions. Approximately 477 Senior Competing members are representatives involved in the governance structure. The Board of Directors, President, and CEO are the only entities and individuals authorized to bind the organization. The Board is not involved in the daily operations of the organization, but it is responsible for development of the organization’s strategic direction. The President reports to the Board, and the CEO reports to the President and is empowered to make the day-today decisions for the organization.
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USEF recognizes only one organization as the official USEF Recognized Affiliate Association for each breed and discipline within the USEF family. The Affiliates are categorized by FEI Discipline Associations and National & Non-FEI Breeds and Disciplines Associations. An organization can serve as a USEF Recognized Affiliate for multiple breeds and/or disciplines. Additionally, FEI Disciplines include both the international and national components of each sport. Affiliates provide a deeper connection to the community in each breed or discipline and offer distinct programs and benefits for their members.
FEI DISCIPLINE ASSOCIATIONS (4)
Equestrian Vaulting USA United States Dressage Federation United States Eventing Association, Inc. United States Hunter Jumper Association, Inc.
NATIONAL & NON-FEI DISCIPLINE ASSOCIATIONS (12) American Connemara Pony Society American Hackney Horse Society American Morgan Horse Association, Inc. American Road Horse & Pony Association American Saddlebred Horse and Breeders Association Arabian Horse Association International Andalusian & Lusitano Horse Association International Friesian Show Horse Association National Show Horse Registry Paso Fino Horse Association, Inc. United States Hunter Jumper Association, Inc. Welsh Pony & Cob Society of America, Inc. Western Dressage Association of America Recognized Affiliate Organization Benefits
PHOTO: JON MCCARTHY PHOTO FOR OSTEEN SCHATZBERG
GOVERNANCE
FEI DISCIPLINE ASSOCIATIONS
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PHOTOS: DEVYN IVY MEDIA, LESLIE POTTER/US EQUESTRIAN, ISABELLE WHITESIDE/US EQUESTRIAN
MEMBER AND AFFILIATE BENEFITS US Equestrian members can access a robust collection of benefits and resources just by being a member. These benefits include exclusive offers and cost-saving programs from some of the best retailers and services, as well as guaranteed-issue and competitively priced insurance products for individuals, families, and small businesses, curated specifically for the equestrian environment.
Free Mental Health First Aid à Free, confidential, professional counseling services that are available 24/7 for personal, work-related and/or family mental health concerns. Individual Health Coverage à Affordable Care Act (ACA) compliant à National provider network & available in all 50 states à Covers pre-existing conditions; no medical application needed à $0 deductible; co-pays are applicable to Out-of-Pocket maximum Small Business Group Health à Affordable Care Act (ACA) compliant à Customizable plan designs to fit your small business needs à Level-funding that provides one, predictable monthly payment à Money-back opportunities in years that claims are lower than expected Medicare & Medicare Supplement Coverage Dental, Vision, Disability, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, and Life Insurance à Available through MetLife and Anthem BlueCross BlueShield à Guaranteed coverage, regardless of health status Medical Transportation Coverage à Covers both emergent ground ambulance and air ambulance transport in all 50 states and in Canada, whether at home or away
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International Medical Insurance à Insurance products à 24/7 emergency medical and travel assistance for U.S. citizens traveling or residing outside the country, as well as citizens of other countries traveling inside the U.S. Discounted Long-Term Care Coverage TeleMedicine & TeleDentist subscriptions à Free, 24/7 access to licensed physicians and dental experts GENERAL INSURANCE PRODUCTS $1M Excess Personal Liability, Death & Disability Insurance for horse-related activities with Equisure Pet Insurance Plan through PinPaws/ Metlife à Exclusive package options available for members with pets of all ages. TUITION ASSISTANCE Discounted tuition for USEF members at: à Midway University
PHOTOS: ISABELLE WHITESIDE/US EQUESTRIAN, DANIELA SANDOVAL
HEALTH INSURANCE PRODUCTS
USEF MemberPerks Just a few of the exclusive offerings and discounts available to USEF members include: • 10% discount at Dover Saddlery, both in-store and online • 5% discount on SmartPak purchases • 10% discount on Pivo Pods and accessories • 15% discount on Toklat products • 20% discount on online Goodyear tire purchases • Up to 28% discount on John Deere equipment • Up to 35% discount on Sherwin Williams purchases • Up to 25% discount on Big Ass Fans® purchase • 15% discount on new or existing BarnManager subscriptions • 50 % d i s cou nt on E QL iv i ng m aga z i ne subscription • 20 % d i s c ou nt o n S idel i nes m aga z i ne subscription • Additional valuable discounts offered from Bates Saddles, Choice Hotels, EquiTrace, ODP Solutions, USRider ® Equestrian Motor Plan, Flexi Equine Tack Lockers, Theault, USEF Visa Signature Card, and more Click on the following link to learn more about USEF Member Benefits and MemberPerks.
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USEF offers Competing memberships on an annual or lifetime basis, and it offers subscriber membership on an annual basis. Additionally, equestrian enthusiasts can engage with USEF for free as USEF Fans. Member benefits are dependent on the category of membership with the greatest difference being the ability to compete in USEF-licensed competitions without incurring a Show Pass fee. USEF also offers a farm/business level of membership on either an annual or lifetime basis.
TOTAL MEMBERSHIP & FANS
COMPETITIONS In a traditional year, USEF licenses well over 2,000 competitions annually. Competition organizers can apply and renew competition licenses by accessing their competition dashboard online through their USEF member account.
TOTAL NUMBER OF COMPETITIONS LICENSED 2024 = 2,094
2025 = 2,091
UNIQUE NUMBER OF HORSES WITH COMPETITION RESULTS
2024 = 2,806 Farms/Businesses
2025 = 1,172
2024 = 85,368
2024 = 517,162 Individuals
2025 = 554,208
UNIQUE NUMBER OF RIDERS, DRIVERS AND AND HANDLERS WHO PARTICIPATED IN COMPETITIONS
HORSE RECORDING USEF offers an owner the ability to record their horse with the association for the purpose of tracking results, eligibility for certain events, and for awards and recognition. USEF processes over 20,000 horse recordings annually. Awards are presented annually by USEF in over 850 categories across the many programs offered.
TOTAL NUMBER OF HORSES RECORDED 2024 = 20,903
2025 = 22,105
EQUINE & HUMAN ANTI-DOPING USEF maintains a robust equine and human anti-doping program. USEF utilizes the services of an equine analytical laboratory fully accredited by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority’s Anti-Doping and Medication Control Program. Affiliates will still be able to access additional testing and collection services through USEF at our group rate. USEF conducts the regulatory function for confirmed positive cases that are in violation of our rules.
TOTAL COMPETITIONS TESTED 2023-24 – 444
2024-25 – 455
TOTAL DAYS TESTING OCCURRED 2023-24 – 569
2024-25 – 623
TOTAL SAMPLES COLLECTED 2023-24 – 10,536
2024-25 – 11,426
ANTI-DOPING INFORMATION USEF Clean Sport FEI Clean Sport
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2024 = 63,145
2025 = 83,192
2025 = 62.009
COMPLIANCE The USEF Compliance team works collaboratively with members, licensed officials, and competition managers to ensure and continually improve the safety and welfare of equine and humans at USEF-licensed competitions. This goal is achieved through conducting onsite competition compliance inspections by department staff, as well as outreach to competitions, members, and Stewards/TDs to follow up on compliance issues raised to USEF through Member’s Confidential Competition Evaluations. In 2025 the Compliance Department conducted 37 site inspections across 4 breeds/disciplines (Hunter/Jumper, Dressage, Eventing, & Arabian) and 17 states, with reach to approximately 19,060 entries at these events. At these inspections, approximately 98 individual compliance issues were noted and ultimately resolved with competition management.
REPORTED COMPLIANCE ISSUES BY SOURCE: In 2025 there were approximately 1,967 compliance issues reported from the following sources: Steward/TD reports = 197 Members Confidential Competition Evaluations: 1,649 2025 Compliance issues identified during inspections: 98 2025 USEF Lite Violations: 23
MEMBERS CONFIDENTIAL COMPETITION EVALUATIONS: In 2025 approximately 3,137 competition evaluations were received and processed (51% increase from 2024). 2,079 were generally positive, 121 generally negative and 937 were a combination of positive and negative feedback. Of these evaluations there were approximately 1,649 compliance issues logged.
PHOTOS: AVERY WALLACE/US EQUESTRIAN, LESLIE POTTER/US EQUESTRIAN
MEMBERSHIP & PROGRAMS
OFFICIALS USEF offers over 76 different licenses and certifications for 2,200 competition officials through its Licensed Officials program. USEF partners with several Affiliates to provide education and training and is responsible for issuing licenses for applicants upon successful completion of the education and evaluation programs. Candidates can apply for licensure and promotion, and officials can renew their licenses online by accessing their USEF member account.
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNIQUE USEF LICENSED OFFICIALS: 2,204 TOTAL NUMBER OF LICENSES ISSUED IN 2025: 4,321 •
Total number of National Licenses Issued:
•
» 2024 = 3,775 2025 = 3,730 Total number of U.S. FEI Licenses Issued: » 2024 = 581
2025 = 591
TOTAL NUMBER OF ACTIVE (OPEN) APPLICATIONS: 1,523 • •
Current active National applications: 1,317 Current active FEI applications: 206
TOTAL NUMBER OF NATIONAL APPLICATIONS REVIEWED AND APPROVED IN 2025: 248 HOSTED 27 LICENSED OFFICIALS EDUCATION SESSIONS (CLINICS OR ONLINE PROGRAMS) PROCESSED 739 COMPETITION EVALUATIONS RELATED TO OFFICIALS USEF DISPERSED A TOTAL OF $33,000 IN GRANT FUNDING TO 69 RECIPIENTS IN 2025 FOR NATIONAL AND FEI OFFICIALS DEVELOPMENT.
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PHOTOS: LESLIE POTTER/US EQUESTRIAN, SHANNON BRINKMAN PHOTO
SPORT PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
2025 KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS DRIVING • 2025 FEI Para Driving World Championship in Lähden, Germany: 2nd Place in Grad I, Tracy Bowman and Albrecht’s Hoeve’s Lars • 2025 FEI Driving World Championship for Pair Horses in Beekbergen, Netherlands: 9th Place, Jacob Arnold and Kenzo, Barichello, Ivor • 2025 CHIO Aachen CAIO4*-H4 in Aachen, Germany: 8th Place, Chester Weber and Despardo, First Edition, Julius V, Kadora, Nico Teusje C DRESSAGE • CDIO3* Wellington Nations Cup – Wellington, USA : Team Silver (Devon Kane and Vamos – Owner: Diamante Farms, Kevin Kohmann and Giulietta – Owner: Diamante Farms, Erin Nichols and Elian Royale – Owner: Premiere Sport Horses, Jennifer Williams and Joppe K – Owner: Joppe Partners, LLC) ENDURANCE • 2025 FEI Endurance Pan American Championship: Individual Bronze Medal (Avery Betz-Conway with Zendaya Rach - Young Rider Championships)
• Jumping team won 1st at CSIOY Nations Cup Final Lier in Belgium (Skylar Wireman with Barclino B, Olivia Sweetnam with Epic, Alexa Elle Lignelli with XO Zandora, and Carlee McCutcheon with Aralyn Blue) • CISO5* 1st place in Rome, Italy (Laura Kraut with Bisquetta, Lillie Keenan with Kick On, Karl Cook with Caracole de la Roque, and McLain Ward with Imperial HBF) • CSI5* 1st place finish at Aachen, Germany (Lillie Keenan with Argan De Beliard, Kent Farrington with Toulayna, Laura Kraut with Bisquetta, and McLain Ward with Imperial HBF) • CSIO5* 2nd place finish at Falsterbo (Spencer Smith with Keeneland, Carly Anthony with Heavenly W, Karl Cook with Caracole de la Roque, and McLain Ward with High Star Hero) • CSIO4* 1st Place at Wellington (Natalie Dean with Acota M, Carly Anthony with Heavenly W, Charlotte Jacobs with Playboy JT Z, Laura Kraut with Tres Bien Z). • CSIO3* 1st place finish at Traverse City (Mimi Gochman with Celina BH, Jacob Pope with Highway FBH, Mia Bagnato with Ballyoskill Big Bucks, and Charolette Jacobs with Korbach Van De Renger) • CSIO3* 1st place finish at Caledon (Sloane Coles with Ninja JW Van De Moerhoeve, Elena A. Haas with Claude, Alexandra Worthington with De L’Oiseliere, and Marilyn Little with La Contessa) • CSIOY Nations Cup Final 1st Place at Lier, BEL (Skylar Wireman with Barclino B, Olivia Sweetnam with Epic, Alexa Elle Lignelli with XO Zadora and Carlee McCutcheon with Aralyn Blue)
• 2025 FEI Endurance World Championships for Juniors and Young Riders: 7th Place (Jax Beloberk, Vanessa Erickson, AnnaMaria Clarke, Lila Reeder, and Uma Kraskin)
PARA-DRESSAGE
EVENTING
• CPEDI3*, Wellington, USA – Team Gold (Fiona Howard and Diamond Dunes, Marie Vonderheyden and Fan Tastico H, Cynthia Screnci and For Memory 4, Hannah Kingsley and Sir Chipoli)
• 2025 FEI Eventing Nations Cup Great Britain – CCI4*-NC-S Bitcon, GBR: Team Silver (Jennifer Caras with Sommersby, Cosby Green with Highly Suspicious, Mia Farley with Invictus, Olivia Dutton with Sea of Clouds) • 2025 FEI Eventing Nations Cup Beligum – CCIO4*-NC-S, BEL: Team Silver (Lauren Nicholson with Larcot Z, Cosby Green with Clever Louis, Caroline Pamukcu with She’s the One) JUMPING • Jumping team won 1st at CSIO5* LLN of Ocala (Lillie Keenan with Argan De Beliard, Aaron Vale with Carissimo 25, Laura Kraut with Dorado 212, and McLain Ward with Ilex) 20 || US Equestrian Federation
• CPEDI3* Wellington, USA – Team Gold (Kate Shoemaker and Vianne, Cynthia Screnci and For Memory 4, Eleanor Brimmer and My Moment, Hannah Kingsley and Eragon VF)
• CPEDI3*, Myakka City USA – Team Gold (Fiona Howard and Diamond Dunes, Marie Vonderheyden and Fan Tastico H, Kate Shoemaker and Vianne, Rebecca Hart and El Corona Texel) • CPEDI3* Hagen, GER – Team Silver (Fiona Howard and Diamond Dunes, Kate Shoemaker and Vianne , Cynthia Screnci and For Memory 4) • CPEDI3*, Tryon, USA – Team Gold (Kate Shoemaker and Supreme, Hannah Kinglsey and Eragon VF, Cynthia Screnci and For Memory 4, Sydney Collier and Bell Bottoms)
PHOTO: AVERY WALLACE/US EQUESTRIAN
USEF prepares athletes and fields and supports teams for international competition. Additionally, USEF administers and supports several competitive, educational, and recognitionbased programs and opportunities for its members and its Recognized Affiliates.
VAULTING • FEI Vaulting World Championship for Junior and Young Vaulters – Stadl Paura (AUT) » Junior Squad à 5th Place – Squad & Drillian owned by Reitclub Blau-WeiB Lowenstedt & lunged by Selena Brummund » Junior Pas de Deux à 5th Place – Danica & Matilda Rinard & Lightning Jack 12 owned & lunged by Thordis Thormahlen » Young Vaulter Individual Female à 6th Place – Kylynn Ghafouri & San Felice Z owned by RVV Equus e.V. & lunged by Christina Ender » Junior Individual Female à 6th Place – Emi Yang & Havhojs Bello Nero owned by DanJo Consult AB & lunged by Johnny Fiskbaek • CHIO - Aachen (GER) » Individual Female à 6th Place – Kimberly Palmer & San Felice Z owned by RVV Equus e.V. & lunged by Christina Ender • FEI Vaulting World Cup Final – Basel (SUI) » Individual Female à 5th Place – Kimberly Palmer & Rosenstolz 99 owned by Club Ippico Monzese A.S.D. & lunged by Laura Carnabuci
US EQUESTRIAN OPEN
USEF NATIONAL PROGRAMS
In 2025, US Equestrian launched the US Equestrian Open Series. The exciting new series, each of which culminated in a championship final brings together the best athletes and horses in eventing, dressage, and jumping for world-class competition, substantial prize money, and global recognition.
• The USEF Junior Hunter National Championships East and West saw an overall 12% jump in participation from 2024 with a combined total of 495 entries
The US Equestrian Open aims to grow awareness for equestrian sport and significantly increase exposure and fan engagement which ultimately benefits all breeds and disciplines within the sport. With over $1 million in prize money and extensive media coverage on ESPN and the USEF Network, the series is designed to attract a broader audience, enhance competition opportunities for athletes, and provide a structured, prestigious championship format. The 2025 US Equestrian Open Champions • Rolex/US Equestrian Jumping Open – Christian Kukuk (GER) aboard Checker 47 • US Equestrian Eventing Open – Boyd Martin aboard Miks Master C • US Equestrian Dressage Open – Ben Ebeling aboard Bellena
• The USEF Pony Finals entry numbers saw a 10% increase in participation over 2024 in pony hunters and the pony medal with a total of 815 entries. • Participation in the Pony Jumpers at Pony Finals grew an astonishing 969% going from 13 entries in 2024 to 139 entries in 2025. • The USEF/NCEA Junior Hunter Seat Medal program continues to grow with a 22% increase over 2024 in applications received an a 21% increase over 2024 in overall class participation. • Entries for both the USEF Saddle Seat Adult and USEF Saddle Seat Medal Finals remained steady compared to 2024, • The Dover Saddlery/USEF Hunter Seat Medal Final qualification participation was down slightly in 2025 which is consistent with a generalized decrease in participation at the 3’6” level and this trend is offset by the participation increase in the USEF/NCEA Junior Hunter Seat Medal program as exhibitors gravitate to the 3’3” levels. 2025 Annual Report || 21
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PHOTOS: SHANNON BRINKMAN PHOTO, ISABELLE WHITESIDE/US EQUESTRIAN, DANIELA SANDOVAL
MARKETING & PROMOTION
KEY 2025 STATISTICS
USEF provides an extensive marketing function that encompasses advertising, education, USEF Network, merchandise, member marketing, PR and communications, TV and broadcasting, grants, publications, awards, sponsorship and sales, promotion and events, and the annual meeting.
2025 SOCIAL MEDIA REVIEW
USEF offers marketing and promotion resources and assistance to our family of Recognized Breeds and Discipline Affiliates.
Total Social Following: 1,694,204 Total US Equestrian Pages/Accounts: 25 • 14 Facebook pages • 6 Instagram pages • 3 Twitter accounts • 1 TikTok • 1 YouTube channel Total Impressions (all accounts & pages): 71,397,614 Total Engagement: 5,155,447 Total Video Views: 19,171,003
PRESS RELEASES ISSUED 2022 – 409 2023 – 364 2024 – 342
Profile
2025 – 332
Reporting Period 1/1/2025 - 12/17/2025
2025 PRESS RELEASE/WRITTEN COVERAGE BREAKDOWN
Sport-Coverage Releases: 164 Total # of National Championships Covered: 35 Total # of Sport-Focused Original Content Pieces: 50 Events Covered In-Person: 40+ Industry News: 96
Audience
1,694,204
Net Audience Growth
54,100
Published Posts
4,414
Impressions
71,397,614
Engagements
5,155,477
Engagement Rate (per impression)
6.98%
Video Views
19,171,003
Official Magazine of the United States Equestrian Federation | Winter 2025
SEASON OF GIVING
Equestrian Gifts for Horses and Humans
Official Magazine of the United States Equestrian Federation | Fall 2025
US EQUESTRIAN OPEN FINALS Dressage and Eventing Champions Crowned
WARM-UP RING ETIQUETTE Creating a Calm Schooling Arena
HORSE WELFARE GUIDELINES Know the Signs
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NATIONAL BREEDS & COMMUNITY AMPLIFICATION Discipline Coverage From Learning Center Videos to competition coverage, the USEF Network provided national breeds throughout 2025 with livestream distribution, content coverage, and support including: • Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show • Pin Oak Charity Horse Show • St. Louis National Charity Horse Show • Paso Fino Grand National • New England Morgan Horse Show • USEF Saddle Seat Medal Final • WDAA World Championship Show • New York Morgan Horse Show • Connecticut Morgan Open Horse Show • The Morgan Gold Cup Regional Horse Show • ...and more!
Editorial Discipline Coverage
• “How It Works” explainer on National Breeds and Discipline Department • 2025 Mustang Classic • Breaking the Mold: feature on unconventional breeds in classic disciplines • Arabian Horse Association’s U.S. National Championship Horse Show • Chincoteague Ponies at USEF Pony Jumper National Championship • Biltmore Fall Endurance Ride to Benefit Hope for Horses • FEI Para Driving World Championships • Connemara Ponies at Chewy Demonstration & Exhibitions Ring at 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event • Arabians, Saddlebreds, Andalusians and Lusitanos at the 2025 Rose Parade • Connecticut Morgan Horse Show • I AM US Equestrian profile on deaf saddle seat rider
COMMUNITY BUILDING EXPANDED RESOURCES & COVERAGE • Community Conversation: Ask the Experts on Mental Health with Horses • USEF Community Outreach Heart Horse Award » This award was created to acknowledge the incredible and lasting impact horses have on their communities. From the nominations, the Community Outreach Task Force selected 4 finalists who moved forward to the final round of voting by USEF membership to determine the winner. » Arnie, from Great Oak Equine Assisted Programs, was the winner and was announced during the SmartPak/USEF Horse of the Year Awards Dinner in January. • First Responders Day: Video produced honoring our first responders and the Community Outreach Organizations that offer programming specific to first responders connecting with horses. » I am US Equestrian: First-person articles in the US Equestrian
magazine and Equestrian Weekly newsletter focusing on Community Building. • Opportunity Week- Salute to Veterans » USEF hosted its third Opportunity Week November 3-11 to raise awareness of the Community Outreach Program and Opportunity Fund. This year highlighted the organizations that are transforming the lives of our veterans through the joy of horses. The Salute to Veterans campaign features Community Outreach Organizations from around the country that offer veteran specific programming. Social channels highlighted seven Community Outreach Organizations through a series of video features and photo galleries. • Mental Health Awareness Month » Mental Health Awareness Month was a full membership initiative highlighting the impact of horses on our daily lives. Developing athletes shared stories on the impacts of sport pressure and how the horses help navigate these challenges. The Community Outreach Organizations shared some insights on mental health programming. Social channels noticed increased engagement on the mental health content which included check-ins for both people and the horses. Additionally, USEF highlighted the Mental Health benefits included with a USEF membership.
SAFETY FOR MEMBERS • The US Equestrian Safety Awareness Week took place in September. This weeklong annual campaign highlights the importance of helmets and safety equipment utilized by riders from across the sport. An issue of Equestrian Weekly newsletter was sent to more than 200,000 members and featured personal storytelling and educational resources. • Explainer on the new USEF stirrup recommendations. • Articles dedicated to Safe Sport are in every issue of the US Equestrian magazine, covering topics such as cyberbullying and working students.
SAFE SPORT 8 Direct Emails
• Parent and Junior Competitors Training sent quarterly in March, June, September, and December • Email about reporting mechanism • MAAPP Reporting • Reminders of MAAPP for the 2025 competition year
Equestrian Weekly
• Hub in all editions of Equestrian Weekly • 13 editions had additional information ranging from suspension/sanction list, mental health resources, and Turning 18 information.
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HORSE WELFARE • Partnered with competition managers to hold horse welfare-focused town hall listening sessions at eight horse shows across breeds and disciplines from June to November, in addition to one virtual session. These sessions directly contributed to the structure of proposed rule changes and 2026 planning for upcoming programs. After considerable positive feedback from members, these events will continue in 2026. • Published the USEF Horse Welfare Guidelines, which provide a clear guide to help members, the public, and licensed officials recognize rare incidents of horse mistreatment and know how to report those incidents. The Guidelines were detailed in a dedicated web page, magazine feature article, series of 9 videos, and three webinars with the assistance of officials, trainers, coaches, and veterinarians. This framework is considered the starting point that may be supplemented in the future. • Hosted our first veterinary summit in Ocala, Fla., bringing together veterinarians across breeds and disciplines to better understand practitioner concerns and limitations among sport horses. The summit yielded a white paper outlining best practices for the care and treatment of sport horses, as well as position statements on equine welfare and overuse that will guide US Equestrian policy. • Issued the first round of grants through the Chromatic Fund to support equine research that will improve the health of horses in sport. • Implemented hair testing to regulate the use of banned substances, as well as a presidential modification addressing equine collapse in response to member concerns and feedback.
VIDEO AND CONTENT COVERAGE From Learning Center Videos to competition coverage, US Equestrian showcased new levels of content to educate and entertain fans. The Learning Center launched thirteen new videos in 2025, three Eventing 101’s with Mia Farley, Equine Botulism 101, and the nine-part Stop Light Series on horse welfare. USEF live-streamed 120 events with twelve events elevated to ESPN 3 live and eight two-hour edited shows to ESPN 2, ESPNews and ESPN U.
Learning Center
USEF Network • 248,519 unique users (3.5% increase from 2024) • 1,804,057 unique video views (4.8% increase from 2024) • 406,141 hours watched live and on demand (7% increase from 2024) • Viewed in 163 countries • USEF produced 14 shows for ESPN that were distributed on ESPN 2, ESPNews, ESPN 3, and Watch ESPN (on demand) • Over 450,000 total viewers combined on all ESPN platforms
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PHOTOS: HOWARD SCHATZBERG, LESLIE POTTER/US EQUESTRIAN
• 31,002 unique users (8% increase from 2024) • 40,746 unique video views (9% increase from 2024) • Viewed in 119 countries • The ClipMyHorse.TV mobile app provided 24% of the unique users and 47% of the unique video views.
USEF COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAM The USEF Community Outreach Program is dedicated to supporting equestrian centers and equine-based organizations across the United States. These organizations all share the mission to improve access to horses and increase opportunities to experience equestrian sport, targeting traditionally under-represented and under-served groups within the community. Additionally, Community Outreach Organizations were eligible to apply for funding available through a USEF Opportunity Grant to assist them in supporting their programs. • Total organizations recognized in 2025: 40 • Number of Community Outreach Organizations receiving grant funding in 2025: 9 • Total amount USEF Opportunity Grant funding awarded in 2025: $90,500 • Total grant distributions to date: $361,100
MEMBERSHIP GROWTH INITIATIVES Winter Sweepstakes
• Wellington destination prize pack for the US Equestrian Open Jumping Final. The sweepstakes brought in 1,412 new fans from 2,431 entries.
Kentucky Horse Park Partnership
• USEF continued its partnership with the Kentucky Horse Park
and visitors are sent a survey after their visit with an option to become a Free Fan of USEF. To date, this initiative has added 1,787 New USEF Fans.
Kids Club Stable Stars
• The Kids Club Stable Stars program was launched in July 2023 for horse lovers aged 12 and under. The program sends quarterly emails including activity pages and educational materials about horses and engages members through the Kids’ Barn at the Kentucky Horse Park, activities such as drawing and bracelet making at USEF events, an interactive prize wheel, and more. There are currently 1,781 Kids Club members as of December 2025.
USEF on the Road
• USEF added several destinations to extend networking and membership promotion efforts. USEF activated at numerous major competitions to solicit and engage fans including: • US Equestrian Open Jumping Final • Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event • USEF Pony Finals presented by Marshall + Sterling • US Equestrian Open Eventing Final • US Equestrian Open Dressage Final • Other event activations included Breyerfest, University of Kentucky Career Fair, and six Community Outreach Organization visits.
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2025 Annual Report || 29
PHOTOS: VINCE LEMASTER, ISABELLE WHITESIDE/US EQUESTRIAN, LESLIE POTTER/US EQUESTRIAN, SUSANJSTICKLE.COM, AVERY WALLACE/US EQUESTRIAN
USEF NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
FINAL NOTE
USEF maintains numerous properties involving seven national championships in the national breeds and non-FEI disciplines, and 73 FEI discipline championships associated with the organization. This year, many of our championships experienced tremendous growth which is a trend reflected by increased competition numbers across the board. USEF partners with several of our affiliates on various aspects of these championships and values the expertise and contributions provided by these organizations.
Administering and managing equestrian sport is a rewarding and challenging experience. It takes a community
USET FOUNDATION
of dedicated USEF and Affiliate volunteers and staff members working collectively to achieve our
The partnership between the USET Foundation (Foundation) and USEF is strong and growing. We continue to experience greater collaboration in promoting and creating awareness of equestrian sport while delivering the message of unity and clarifying the uniqueness of the roles and responsibilities of both organizations. The Foundation exists to raise funding to support USEF high performance and developing programs and the Foundation provides approximately 40% of the total funding annually for these programs. We greatly appreciate the Foundation’s ongoing support, especially as we look forward to the LA2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
combined mission and vision. We are so fortunate to have such a diverse, passionate, and engaged community. The horse and human connection is what ultimately unites all of us,
USET Foundation
and it plays an integral role in our success. It is our dedication to the horse that provides our unified voice and keeps us moving
PHOTO: ANDREA EVANS/US EQUESTRIAN
forward. Thank you for your
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membership, your support and your contributions to our amazing sport.