US Equestrian Magazine

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PHOTOS: LESLIE POTTER/US EQUESTRIAN, AVERY WALLACE/US EQUESTRIAN, COURTESY OF ZOETIS

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum celebrate victory at the 2023 Kentucky Three-Day Event.

Photo: Leslie Potter/ US Equestrian

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US EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE

Volume LXXXVII, Spring 2024

PUBLISHED BY

The United States Equestrian Federation, Inc.

CHIEF MARKETING & CONTENT OFFICER

Vicki Lowell | vlowell@usef.org

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Glenye Cain Oakford | goakford@usef.org

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Candice McCown | cmccown@usef.org

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Kim Russell | 859 225 6938 | krussell@usef.org

DIRECTOR OF SPONSORSHIP & SALES

Layson Griffin | lgriffin@usef.org

ASSISTANT DESIGNER

Kendall Neubeiser

EDITORIAL STAFF

Emily Girard, Kim Russell

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kim and Ciara Doyle, Zack Ryle

Proud partners of US Equestrian

Proud sponsors of US Equestrian

Proud sponsors of US Equestrian

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The Gifts of Spring

Dear USEF Members,

Spring finally has sprung, and equestrians everywhere—especially those whose shows traditionally end when winter begins—are eagerly anticipating more daylight, sunny days, and the 2024 competition season. At USEF, we’re looking forward to some of the year’s best competitions, too, including the 2024 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™. This annual CCI5* eventing competition takes place in our backyard at the Kentucky Horse Park. DK3DE, as it’s often known, always features compelling storylines, most recently including U.S. eventing athlete Tamie Smith’s awe-inspiring victory in 2023 aboard Mai Baum. Smith and Mai Baum stormed to the top of the leaderboard after their double-clear cross-country round and never looked back, providing a memorable and popular win that also made them the first U.S. combination to win the event since 2008.

Their victory wasn’t a one-off. It was part of an international resurgence of U.S. eventing athletes and horses. In this issue, we partner with the data science company EquiRatings to consider the ample evidence for U.S. eventing athletes’ positive momentum, revealing some of the great trends that are emerging in the U.S. eventing.

Look out for US Equestrian’s comprehensive digital coverage of the 2024 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event April 25-28, too. Members can follow all the action on USEF Network, usef. org, and all of our social media channels.

The excitement of competition, the deep joy we experience when we are with a horse or pony, and the sense of accomplishment we glean from developing a new skill with our horses—these are some of the many benefits equestrians reap from their involvement in horse sports. Horses are a great stress-reliever, and many equestrians find respite from daily stresses at the barn. April is Stress Awareness Month, and in our story “Stress-Reduction Strategies,” you’ll find tips for handling stress from Dr. Jessica Bartley, Senior Director of Psychological Services at the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee; Dr. Sally Broder, Executive Director of the USEF Community Outreach Organization HorseSensing; and four-time equestrian Paralympic athlete Rebecca Hart. We also link readers to the mental-health benefits that USEF members can access.

Thinking ahead to the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, which are right around the corner in July and August, our “How It Works” story in this issue provides a look at how the U.S. team selection process works. As the article notes, selecting a small group of athletes to represent the U.S. at prestigious international competitions like the Olympic and Paralympic Games is no small task, and a fair and transparent selection process is paramount to USEF. Read it to learn more about parameters set by the Fédération Équestre Internationale, observation events, and much more about the factors that underpin the thorough and careful selection process.

The arrival of spring, the delight we find with horses, and the excitement of competitions big and small aren’t the only things we’re celebrating in this issue. You’ll also find a story in this issue’s USEF News section spotlighting how US Equestrian grants to two of our Community Outreach Organizations is helping to expand the equestrian community and provide benefits for more equestrians. In “Juniors’ Ring,” you’ll read about five rising college freshmen who secured 2023 Higher Education Equestrian Scholarships from US Equestrian. Are you a 2024 high school senior and equestrian or the parent of one? Applications for the 2024 scholarships are open now and close on July 31, 2024—we encourage you to apply for one of the five $1,000 scholarships US Equestrian awards each year to equestrians who are committed to advancing their equestrian knowledge or skills while in college.

I wish you a rewarding and joyous spring season at the barn, in competition, or on the trail, and hope to see you ringside!

PHOTO: TAYLOR PENCE/US EQUESTRIAN

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The restructure broadens the opportunity to engage with qualified coaches and allow for greater accessibility to programaffiliated resources, creating a more sustainable pathway for the future.

Coaching Restructure for U.S. Dressage High-Performance, Pathway Programs

US Equestrian has announced updates to the U.S. Dressage coaching structure within the program pathways. The initiative has been in the works for months and leveraged key stakeholder feedback and athlete participation throughout the process. The restructure broadens the opportunity to engage with qualified coaches and allow for greater accessibility to program-affiliated resources, creating a more sustainable pathway for the future, while also increasing the depth of coaching support in the United States.

Christine Traurig, a coach within the program for nearly 10 years, moves into the Development Coach role, taking over from Charlotte Bredahl, who steps down April 1. Traurig also will serve as Chef d’Equipe for the Paris 2024 Olympics U.S. Dressage Team. As Chef d’Equipe, Traurig will focus on supporting and liaising with athletes and their personal coaches who are targeting the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Traurig will work closely with US Equestrian’s Managing Director of Dressage, Laura Roberts, to maximize the U.S. Dressage Team’s field-of-play performance.

“Firstly, I want to commend and thank all of the people who have supported and participated in the dialogue around the coaching restructure within the U.S. Dressage program and their continued commitment to ensuring the success of our program combinations,” said Hallye Griffin, Director of FEI Sport for US Equestrian. “Christine [Traurig] is the right fit to support and will add invaluable expertise to the U.S. Dressage Team looking towards this summer’s Olympic Games. Additionally, Christine will be taking a more active role in the development program as we increase focus to our home Olympic Games in Los Angeles, Calif., in 2028.”

The USEF Dressage Coaches Support Network will expand and help provide greater support across the U.S. Dressage Program, in coordination with Traurig and George Williams. Williams remains in his position as High Performance and Pathway Development Advisor and Youth Coach, assisting with strategy development and working with athletes to identify opportunities, including enhancing access to education and coaching through more clinics and competition opportunities. All coaching appointments are pending official contract negotiation and confirmation.

“I am excited to be stepping into the Development Coach role for the program. Our sights are set on the future and how we can continue to strengthen our development pipeline of talented horses and riders,” said Traurig. “It’s also an honor to be appointed as Chef d’Equipe for this summer, and a full circle moment for me in my career, as I hope to share my knowledge and past Olympic experience as an athlete and coach as guidance and support to our high-performance combinations on the road to Paris this summer.”

As a part of the feedback and discussion and following the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, US Equestrian will continue to strengthen coaching support through the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games with the appointment of additional coaches and educational opportunities to support across the programs.

The USEF International High-Performance Programs and the USEF High Performance Pathway Programs are generously supported by the USET Foundation, the philanthropic partner to USEF. High Performance Program support is also provided by the USOPC and USEF sponsors and members.

PHOTOS: SHANNON BRINKMAN PHOTO

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USEF Helps Community Outreach Organizations Build

Boosted by grants from US Equestrian, two USEF Community Outreach Organizations HorseSensing in Shelbyville, Ky., and Horses of Hope in Isabela, Puerto Rico—recently invested in new or improved facilities to help them better serve their communities.

HorseSensing partners with veterans and individuals in recovery from drug and alcohol abuse. It recently opened a new living space for participants, renovating an old farmhouse after receiving a $10,000 grant from the USEF Opportunity Fund in 2022.

By allowing participants to live on site, the new space allowed HorseSensing to better teach its clients the lifelong skills they can carry into new jobs and lives. Participants go through a groom certification course while enrolled in HorseSensing’s program, with the goal of finding jobs in the equestrian industry. Many participants and program graduates work as grooms and assistants at various horse shows throughout central Kentucky.

to accommodate their rapidly expanding organization. Headquartered in Isabela, Puerto Rico, Horses of Hope/Caballos de Esperanza utilizes instructors certified by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International to provide equestrian therapy and education. Horses of Hope’s services are targeted toward people above the age of four who are dealing with trauma and disabilities.

The new facilities provide a home for more horses and programs, which aim to “nurture the special abilities” of the organization’s clients and empower them to improve the quality of their lives, their families’ lives, and their communities, according to Horses of Hope’s mission statement.

The USEF grant was combined with fundraising contributions to fund construction of Horses of Hope’s new facilities.

Horses of Hope used a $10,000 USEF grant to build new facilities to accommodate their rapidly expanding organization in Puerto Rico.

Horses of Hope, which also received a $10,000 grant from the USEF Opportunity Fund, used it to build new facilities

Learn more about the USEF Community Outreach Organizations and USEF Opportunity Fund at usef.org/about-us/ diversity-inclusion/organizations-program . Donate to the Opportunity Fund at usef.org/donate.

Applications Open for 2024 Higher Education Equestrian Scholarships

US Equestrian is now accepting applications for its 2024 Higher Education Equestrian Scholarships, which provide $1,000 scholarships to five graduating high school seniors who are committed to advancing their equestrian knowledge or skills while in college.

The completed application, along with an essay and at least one reference from an individual within the horse industry, is due July 31, 2024.

To be eligible, an applicant must be a current US Equestrian competing member or subscriber and a graduating high school senior preparing to enter their freshman year of college in the fall of 2024. The scholarship is available to members from all US

Equestrian-affiliated breeds and disciplines who will continue their involvement with horses or equestrian sports in college. Continuing involvement may include, but is not limited to, an equine-related degree program or classes; intercollegiate equestrian team or club; or equestrian-related internships, jobs, or volunteer work.

Scholarship funds will be issued directly to the recipients’ educational institutions to be applied to their tuition costs.

To learn more about the 2024 Higher Education Equestrian Scholarships or to apply, visit usef.org/learning-center/ youth-programs/grants-scholarships/high-school-scholarship

Direct any questions to Ashley Hudson at ahudson@usef.org

PHOTO: COURTESY OF HORSES OF HOPE

Perrigo U.S. Para Dressage Team Starts 2024 With a Win

The Perrigo U.S. Para Dressage Team began the 2024 competition season with a victory at the CPEDI3* at the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival 3 in Wellington, Fla., in January. Chef d’Equipe Laureen Johnson led Beatrice de Lavalette and Sixth Sense, Rebecca Hart and Floratina, Fiona Howard and Fleuresse 4, and Cynthia Screnci and Sir Chipoli, who took top honors in the team competition. The U.S. combinations, including some newer athlete/horse combinations, delivered solid tests as they aim to build on their performances in this initial outing for 2024.

“With several newer athlete/horse combinations, overall, we did quite well,” said Johnson. “The future looks very encouraging, and it’s always very exciting to have new horses. … I was very proud of our athletes and know we are on an upward trajectory.”

De Lavalette (Lake Fort Worth, Fla.) and Sixth Sense earned three scores in the 70s throughout the competition, demonstrating their consistency and steady partnership. Howard (Boston, Mass.) and Fleuresse 4 are a relatively new partnership but had strong results while making their second CPEDI appearance together. Screnci (Boca Raton, Fla.) and Sir Chipoli put forth solid efforts in their tests for the U.S. team, winning the Grade V FEI Para Grand Prix A Test on Friday with a score of 69.914%; the pair also won the Grade V FEI Para Grand Prix Freestyle with a score of 62.767%. Hart (Loxahatchee, Fla.) and Floratina were eliminated in Friday’s Grade III FEI Para Grand Prix A Test, and Hart withdrew from the remainder of the competition, as Floratina did not feel like her usual self. The pair will aim to return to the competition ring later during the winter circuit.

The USEF International High-Performance Programs and the USEF High Performance Pathway Programs are generously supported by the USET Foundation, the philanthropic partner to USEF. High Performance Program support is also provided by the USOPC and USEF sponsors and members.

US Equestrian Unveils New National Endurance Award Program

US Equestrian is proud to announce the launch of the newly amended USEF National Endurance Award Program, a revamped initiative aimed at recognizing and celebrating the achievements of endurance athletes and horses across the country. Officially launching with the 2024 season, the USEF National Endurance Award Program includes the USEF Endurance Year-End Awards and the USEF Endurance Career Mileage Awards.

USEF Endurance Year End Awards will be calculated based on USEF and FEI competition results during the competition season (Dec. 1-Nov. 30) and are composed of the following categories:

• Top Ten National-Ranked Senior Athletes

• Top Ten National-Ranked Junior/Young Rider Athletes

• Endurance Athlete of the Year Award

• Endurance Horse of the Year Award

• Endurance Best Condition Season Award

The USEF Endurance Career Horse Mileage and Athlete Mileage Awards will honor horses and athletes for their achievements at 250; 500; 750; 1,000; 3,000; and 5,000 miles, showcasing the dedication and perseverance demonstrated in the world of endurance riding.

Athletes and horse owners can request recognition of their or their horse’s career mileage from American Endurance Ride Conference or Equine Distance Riding Association competitions held before Dec. 1, 2023. Requests must be submitted via email to USEF Director of Endurance Nicole Zerbee by Sept.1. Verification of requests will be conducted through AERC or EDRA competition records.

CPEDI3*

Visit usef.org for more information, including eligibility criteria and submission details, or contact Nicole Zerbee, USEF Director of Endurance, at nzerbee@usef.org

PHOTO: SUSANJSTICKLE.COM, MARIA PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHY

Para dressage athletes (front, left to right) Rebecca Hart, Fiona Howard, Bea de Lavalatte, and (back, center) Cynthia Screnci earned top honors at the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival 3

in Wellington, Fla.

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In & Around the Ring

“I really am astonished that I can inspire people.… I’m a pretty normal, clumsy person, and the fact that I can inspire other riders is really cool to get to do.”

- Isabelle Fischer, winner of the 2023 USEF Saddle Seat Medal Final

U.S. endurance athlete Uma Kraskin making her senior championship team debut on CL Magnolia. The pair completed the challenging 120-kilometer course at the 2023 FEI Pan American Endurance Championships in Chile in November.

Opposite: Erica Peet, a member of US Equestrian and the International Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Association, celebrated victory with Jody Sydow’s Andalusian stallion Classico BP at the IALHA National Championship Show, one of many national championships that USEF-affiliated breeds and disciplines celebrated in late 2023.

“O ur sights are set on the future and how we can continue to strengthen our development pipeline of talented horses and riders.”

- Christine Traurig, who succeeds Charlotte Bredahl as U.S. Dressage Development Coach

Eventing athlete Cassie Sanger and Redfield Fyre take a break during the 2024 USEF Emerging Athlete training session at the Florida Horse Park in Ocala, Fla., in January.

“Y ou want to challenge him in a way that says, ‘You can do this, I believe in you; you can be successful, and we’re going to figure out how to do this together.’”

-

Clinician Katie Duerrhammer to dressage athlete Lexie Kment, riding the young gelding Sir Limoncello, during the Robert Dover Horsemastership Clinic Week in January in Wellington, Fla.

Far Upper Left: Zayna Rizvi (center) receives the Lionel GuerrandHermès Trophy for horsemanship and sportsmanship from USET Foundation Board of Trustees

Vice President William H. Weeks (left) and USET Foundation President, Chairman, and CEO W. James McNerney, Jr. (right). The presentation took place at the “Victory in Versailles” Benefit Gala presented by Lugano Diamonds at Five Rings Farm in Wellington, Fla., which raised more than $2 million to support U.S. equestrian teams heading to the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

PHOTOS: FRANCISCO BOETSCH TAGLE, AVERY WALLACE/ US EQUESTRIAN, JUMP MEDIA, GENIE IMAGES

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Learn How to ask the Right Questions

by Zack Ryle

US Equestrian will debut a new Safe Sport PSA and website to help parents and guardians.

We know asking the right questions to a teenage child can be difficult in the best of times, but if something seems off, finding the right question to get a responsive answer can be especially tricky. The complexity can rise if something is truly wrong, which makes US Equestrian’s newest initiative even more important.

This summer, US Equestrian simultaneously will launch a website, USEquestrianSafeSport.org, and a public service announcement (PSA) video specifically designed to help parents and guardians ask the right questions around the topic of Safe Sport and adult/ minor interactions.

“US Equestrian is committed to keeping all competitors safe, especially our junior competitors,” stated US Equestrian Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel Sonja Keating. “Our hope is that this PSA will raise awareness around subtle signs of grooming that often precede abuse and spark conversations between parents and their children. Teaching minor athletes about healthy relationships can help prevent abuse. The website and the resources we provide should be bookmarked on every equestrian parent’s browser to use as needed.”

USEquestrianSafeSport.org hosts several resources for parents, including the PSA video, examples of questions to ask from each scenario in the video, and specific sites and tools.

“This idea was sparked when the U.S. Center for SafeSport released a PSA focused on asking the right questions in September of 2021,” stated US Equestrian Chief Marketing Officer Vicki Lowell. “As soon as Sonja and I saw these videos, we knew we wanted to produce one focused on the equestrian world. The Center was very supportive of us expanding their award-winning campaign concept.”

In the video, each actor focuses on a specific question that is meant to get everyone in the equestrian community thinking. While the focus is on parents and guardians asking the right questions, the hope is that junior equestrians, trainers, and others will pause and think further about healthy boundaries and relationships and the USEF Safe Sport Policy, including Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies (MAAPP). Both the USEF Safe Sport Policy and the MAAPP are available online at usef. org/safe-sport/maapp.

Topics in the PSA range from direct communication and travel to special attention given in a barn. The final question ties it all together with a question that simply poses, “I don’t want to ride anymore. Want to know why?”

“While some of the topics from the Center’s video could apply to the equestrian world, we felt that some in the equestrian community may think, ‘Those types of things don’t happen in our sport,’” stated Lowell. “Unfortunately, these problems persist nationwide in youth sports, regardless of the sport. We hope these videos will speak directly to the equestrian community and get people to think about their interactions more. These are topics that must be spotlighted further as US Equestrian continues to strive to be a leader in keeping our young athletes safe.”

Each of the topics discussed leads directly back to the USEF Safe Sport Policy and the MAAPP.

It is important to note that a video this important cannot be made without a considerable amount of help. We would like to thank Charles Owen, Ariat, and Dover Saddlery for providing clothing, boots, and helmets for the actors in the video. We would also like to thank the Colorado Horse Park for the use of their facility, as

“Teaching minor athletes about healthy relationships can help prevent abuse,” says US Equestrian Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel Sonja Keating. “The website and the resources we provide should be bookmarked on every equestrian parent’s browser to use as needed.”

well as the team at Image Brew for their work in filming and editing these campaign videos. And we thank the U.S. Center for SafeSport for sharing the campaign idea.

Importantly, we do recognize that these videos may be triggering for some who watch them. US Equestrian provides multiple mental health resources for our members, including counseling services that are available at no added cost to members. Organizations outside US Equestrian, including We Ride Together, also provide additional helpful resources and educational materials for individuals who want to learn more about grooming and sexual misconduct.

To report a potential USEF Safe Sport violation, visit usef.org/safe-sport/reporting.

These topics are difficult to talk about. You can go here to find resources, such as a Parent and Guardian’s Handbook for Safer Sport and tips on talking to your kids about abuse and misconduct in sport. We hope that this new PSA and our website will help make asking the right questions just a little bit easier.

PHOTO: MATT TURER/US EQUESTRIAN

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How It Works: Olympic & Paralympic Games Team Selection

by Leslie Potter

Selecting athletes to represent the U.S. at international competitions is no small task. Putting together teams for the Olympic and Paralympic Games that will give the U.S. its best shot at bringing home medals encompasses multiple factors.

A fair and transparent selection process is paramount to USEF. “Selection procedures are developed with the discipline director for the sport and the relevant sport committee with emphasis on athlete input,” said Hallye Griffin, US Equestrian’s Director of FEI Sport. “The United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) reviews and approves selection procedures for the Olympics, Paralympics, and Pan American Games.”

The full selection procedures for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games are available on each discipline’s page on USEF. org. While all four sports select their teams differently based on the unique attributes, competition schedules, and preparation needed

for each discipline, they all follow the general steps outlined here.

STEP ONE Minimum Eligibility Requirements

The FEI sets parameters for horse-and-athlete combinations to compete as an individual or as part of a team at each level in all disciplines. This may include age ranges for horses or athletes and citizenship requirements and will always include minimum eligibility requirements (MERs). These MERs are typically a set number of qualifying scores at a designated level during a specified time period.

For the 2024 Olympics, the MER qualifying period is January 1, 2023, through June 24, 2024. The Paralympic MER qualifying period

The U.S. Dressage Team for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games earned the United States’ first Olympic team silver medal in dressage since 1948.

PHOTO: TAYLOR PENCE/US EQUESTRIAN

HOW IT WORKS

is January 1, 2022, to June 19, 2024. The full description of MERs and list of qualifying competitions for each discipline are available on the FEI’s Paris 2024 Hub at inside.fei.org/fei/ games/paris2024. The comprehensive details of qualification are too long to list here, but the basic MERs for the Olympic and Paralympic Games are:

• Dressage rider/horse combinations must earn a minimum of 67% in Grand Prix tests at two different CDI competitions at the 3* level or above with a certain level of FEI Judges officiating.

• Eventing rider/horse combinations can earn their MERs with one qualifying result at either one CCI5*-L or both a CCI4*-L and a CCI4*-S along with a separate “confirmation result” of a qualifying result at a 4* or 5* after Janu ary 1, 2024. Among other things, qualifying results require no cross-country jumping penalties (with an allowance for an 11-point penalty for activating a frangible device).

• Jumping rider/horse combinations must complete a round of specified CSI competitions at either the height of 1.55 meters with four or fewer penalties or at 1.60 meters with eight or fewer penalties.

• Paralympic rider/horse combinations must earn at least one score of 64% or above at a CPEDI3* Grand Prix Test A or Test B (formerly titled the Team and Individual Tests prior to 2023.)

The FEI sets these MERs, but beyond that, it is up to each National Federation to choose how to select qualified athletes for their teams.

“The selection process begins with an application,” said Griffin. “It’s open to anyone who meets the minimum requirements. From there, most disciplines select a smaller group from within those applicants, who will be asked to do additional things such as observation events, training camps, etc. The team members will ultimately be selected from that group.”

STEP TWO Nominated Entry

Nominated Entry refers to the roster of potential team members, traveling reserve, and/or alternate athletes and horses submitted to the FEI up to the maximum number of athletes and horses permitted by the FEI. For the Olympics and Paralympics, the nominated entry for each sport has 12 athletes and 12 horses.

“The Nominated Entry also serves as your substitution pool,” said Griffin. “Once you name your final team, if you need to change out any combinations, you may only use combinations that were on the Nominated Entry.”

Selectors will consider a variety of factors when naming the nominated entry which are enumerated in the selection procedures. “After every Olympics, we evaluate selection processes to determine if they built the best team,” said Griffin. “While performance, scores, and placings are reviewed as part of team selection, we’ve found that using a straight ranking list is not necessarily going to result in the best team, and that there is a need to have some flexibility in selection.”

This flexibility may involve a combination of athletes chosen from a ranking list and athletes chosen through discretionary selection by the selectors and chef d’equipe, based on criteria in the selection procedures.

STEP THREE Observation Events and Mandatory Outings

Athletes in consideration for a team are often required to compete in a certain number of observation events. These events are an opportunity for a team leader, chef d’equipe, and/ or selectors to observe prospective team members as one of multiple factors that will inform their decision.

Some team events will require all horse-and-athlete combinations to participate in a single mandatory outing, usually held close to the deadline for final entries. This serves as a final

The Olympic/Paralympic sports of dressage, para dressage, eventing, and jumping select their teams differently based on the unique attributes, competition schedules, and preparation needed for each discipline.

review of the team selection to ensure that all the horses and athletes are fit and ready to compete at the championship level.

STEP FOUR Definite Entry and Final Entry

Definite Entry is an FEI designation for the final selection of participating team members, plus an optional alternate. Definite Entries must be approved by the USEF Board of Directors or Executive Committee or an Ad Hoc of the Board of Directors before being sent to the FEI and announced publicly.

Final Entry is a term used for the Olympics, Paralympics, and Pan American Games and refers to the selection of team members and traveling reserve submitted to the USOPC. For the Paris 2024 Olympics, Final Entry deadlines are between June 7 and July 7, 2024, and the USOPC will approve and submit the full Official Final Entry for all U.S. sports to the Organizing Committee of the Olympic Games.

Selecting the Selectors

For most events, the selection procedures include designating official selectors or advisors with in-depth knowledge of the specific discipline. “The sport committees will help identify potential selectors, and then with the discipline director, they submit them as a recommendation to the CEO for approval,” said Griffin. “We have very clear contracts outlining the selectors’ roles and responsibilities, but essentially their role is to follow the selection procedures that have been published, and to build teams that have the best possible chance at success, and to do it in a fair and transparent way.”

PHOTO: SHANNON BRINKMAN PHOTO

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Students Earn 2023 USEF Higher Education Equestrian Scholarships

US Equestrian congratulates the five recipients of the 2023 USEF Higher Education Equestrian Scholarships, awarded annually to graduating high school seniors continuing their equestrian involvement through their higher education careers. Each student receives a $1,000 grant to be used toward education expenses at their college or university.

ABBY BAUKNIGHT PAYTON ANDERSON

Payton Anderson of Pflugerville, Texas, started equestrian activities through the hippotherapy program at the J.F. Shea Center. Anderson began riding dressage four years ago and now competes with her horse, Bilbo. She also participates in Future Farmers of America and her school’s horse judging team. She is a hippotherapy volunteer and also operates a small business, Central Texas Horse Treats, donating a portion of sales to therapeutic riding centers. Anderson is attending Emory and Henry College, where she is a member of the equestrian team. She is majoring in Equine Business Management with a minor in Adaptive Therapies. Her goal is to become a PATH International certified therapeutic riding instructor.

Learn more about dressage by visiting our recognized affiliate, the United States Dressage Federation, at usdf.org.

Abby Bauknight of Irmo, S.C., is a freshman economics major at the University of South Carolina, where she is pursuing a degree in economics and is a hunt seat rider on the varsity equestrian team. She has been competing in hunters and equitation on the USEF circuit since 2019. Bauknight credits her success to her leadership, personality, and ability to support her teammates.

Learn more about the hunter discipline by visiting our recognized affiliate, the United States Hunter Jumper Association, at ushja.org.

PHOTOS: COLLIN HOVINGA PHOTOGRAPHY, ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY

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ALEXANDRA STEWART ADDISON GROSZ

Addison Grosz of Alachua, Fla., has competed in showmanship, Western dressage, traditional dressage, and ranch horse classes. Grosz competed on the 4-H circuit with Romeo before retiring him due to medical issues. Caring for him through recurrent colic episodes inspired her to pursue veterinary medicine. Now a freshman studying Animal Sciences at the University of Florida, Grosz works at the Equine Performance Suite at the UF Large Animal Hospital, participating in research related to performance horses and Thoroughbred racehorses conducted at the UF Vet School. She continues to compete at licensed dressage competitions with her current horse, Magic.

Learn more about the Western dressage discipline by visiting our recognized affiliate, the Western Dressage Association of America., at westerndressageassociation.org.

MARLEY RIZZI

Marley Rizzi of Wall, N.J., is a Sport Business Management major and member of the equestrian team at the University of Tennessee at Martin. A former gymnast, she competed successfully in hunter seat equitation at the regional and national level. Rizzi volunteers as a religious education aide at St. Catharine’s Church with the first and fourth grade classes and has a special affinity for working with children with disabilities, informed by her own experience with dyslexia. Rizzi aims to work for a national professional sports foundation.

Learn more about hunter seat equitation by visiting our recognized affiliate, the United States Hunter Jumper Association, at ushja.org.

Alexandra Stewart of Cream Ridge, N.J., is a saddle seat equitation rider and a freshman at the University of Kentucky, where she is pursuing a degree in Equine Science and Management and is a member of the UK Saddle Seat Team. Stewart interns at Saddlebred Rescue, a non-profit organization that focuses on rehabilitating and rehoming rescued and at-risk American Saddlebred horses. Her long-term goal after college is to work as a professional horse trainer.

Learn more about the American Saddlebred by visiting our recognized affiliate, the American Saddlebred Horse and Breeders Association, at saddlebred.com.

Learn more about the USEF Higher Education Equestrian Scholarship, including eligibility and how to apply, at usef.org or contact Emily McSweeney at emcsweeney@usef.org.

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RESURGENCE RESURGENCE

Will Coleman’s 2021 triumph at the 2021 CCIO4*-S at CHIO Aachen in 2021 was the first-ever win by a U.S. rider at the event, which also saw the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team take second in the FEI Eventing Nations Cup, the highest-placed finish ever by a U.S. team at the event.

and Triumph

BY DIARMUID BYRNE AND GLENYE CAIN OAKFORD

RESURGENCE RESURGENCE

As the 2024 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event approaches, we teamed up with EquiRatings to reflect on five key moments over the last five years that show the strength of United States eventing athletes.

The past five years have brought great joy and excitement for fans of U.S. eventing, who have good reason for optimism leading up to the 2024 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™, which takes place April 25-28 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky., and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games from July 26-Aug. 11. To help get you ready for Kentucky’s much-loved “best weekend all year” and beyond, we’ve selected five particularly transformative moments, from the FEI World Equestrian Games™ Tryon 2018 to the Kentucky Three-Day Event in 2023, that highlight strategic, triumphant steps forward for elite eventing in the United States.

Tryon 2018: A Data-Driven Renaissance

When the U.S. missed its Olympic qualification at the FEI World Equestrian Games™ Tryon 2018 in Mill Spring, N.C., qualifying later at the Pan American Games, the moment galvanized U.S. high-performance eventing, and we found a subtle shift in performance levels when we looked a little deeper. Sub-40 finishing scores are a simple but effective way at looking how often riders are putting together three good phases, under pressure, at an international competition. It can be a crude measurement, but it is also one that correlates to success. U.S. eventing athletes were hitting that mark, and it’s been paying dividends ever since.

In 2019, the U.S. produced 9% of all sub-40 finishing scores at CCI4* and CCI5* level globally. That’s a healthy market share of top performances for one nation, and things got even better: in 2020, this market share grew to 14%, and it has remained at that level. This puts the USA firmly ahead of key medal rivals Germany (10%), France (10%), Australia (6%) and New Zealand (5%).

Dominance in International Events

The fact that U.S. eventing athletes consistently top international win tables is a testament to their escalating prowess. U.S. riders have not just competed, but conquered, proving their mettle against the world’s best.

The fact that U.S. eventing athletes consistently top international win tables is a

Tamie Smith, who scored a historic and popular victory in the 2023 Kentucky ThreeDay Event with Mai Baum, hit the top three on the global winners list back in 2020— just one sign of growing American momentum in highperformance eventing.

PHOTOS: DEVYN TRETHEWEY/US EQUESTRIAN, SHANNON BRINKMAN PHOTO

At the 2022 FEI Eventing World Championships at Pratoni, the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team of Will Coleman, Lauren Nicholson, Tamie Smith, and Boyd Martin produced the best-ever U.S. team score at an Olympics or World Championships.

In 2019, one U.S. eventing athlete made the top-five winners list. That was Boyd Martin, in fifth on that list with six international wins. The following year, two U.S. riders made the top five, with Liz Halliday leading the global winners list with nine international victories. Tamie Smith—who later went on to a popular victory in the 2023 Kentucky Three-Day Event with Mai Baum—also ranked third that season.

In 2021, the number of U.S. eventers in the international top five grew to three riders, who jointly topped the global winners list with six international wins each. The familiar faces of Phillip Dutton and Liz Halliday were joined by the up-and-coming Caroline Pamukcu (née Martin), who all sat together atop the list alongside Germany’s Michael Jung. In 2022, Halliday made it three years in a row as the winningest international rider in the sport of eventing with 13 international titles. Last year, Pamukcu took over the title with 12 international victories.

The takeway message? The USA has produced the most prolific winners in this sport for the past four consecutive seasons.

A Historic Victory at Aachen

In a groundbreaking moment for U.S. eventing, Will Coleman and Off The Record clinched victory in the CCIO4*-S at CHIO Aachen in 2021–the first-ever win at that prestigious event by a U.S. rider. It was an emotional day in Germany, which also saw a huge performance from the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team of Coleman, Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire, Ariel Grald and Leamore Master Plan, and Smith and Mai Baum. The team captured second place in the FEI Eventing Nations Cup, the highest-placed finish ever by a U.S. team at the event. Until 2021, only three nations were represented among the individual Aachen winners – Germany, Australia, and New Zealand—and then Coleman added the United States to the

list. “You’ve got to keep knocking on the doors,” Coleman said afterwards. “Eventually, one of them’s got to open.”

A Silver Lining at Pratoni

The 2022 FEI Eventing World Championships at Pratoni del Vivaro in Italy witnessed a sterling performance by the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team, culminating in a well-deserved silver medal. It was exciting from the start, with all of the first three dressage tests going into the all-time best 10 U.S. tests at a World Championships. Smith and Mai Baum’s test scored 24.0, the best in 20 years.

The medal was a collective triumph, with Coleman, Smith, Lauren Nicholson, and Boyd Martin showcasing exceptional skill and teamwork to produce the best-ever U.S. team score at an Olympics or World Championships, and that’s after converting all historical scores to modern-day scoring. Their 100.3 score in Pratoni edged out the USA’s bronze-medal-winning score of 101.1 at the 2004 Athens Olympics, which, before Pratoni, marked the last time U.S. eventers had landed a team medal. As the 2022 Pratoni foursome ended an 18-year wait for silverware, fans were already eagerly looking toward the future with increasingly justified optimism.

Get Ready for Kentucky with US Equestrian

Clearly, U.S. eventing is on an upward trend, and it’s no surprise so many fans are counting the days until the 2024 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian April 25-28. Whether you’re planning to catch the

event in person or watching all the action online, US Equestrian has everything you need.

Watch live. Bookmark usef.org/network to catch the livestream on USEF Network, powered by ClipMyHorse.TV.

Keep up with the news. Check out US Equestrian’s online news hub for the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian. There you can catch up with the event schedule, read daily event recaps, find behind-the-scenes stories, flip through photo galleries, and follow our social posts throughout the event.

Explore more great competition. Billed as “the best weekend all year,” the Defender Kentucky Three-Day features not just one, but two, eventing competitions: the top-billed CCI5* and the Cosequin® Lexington CCI4*. Can’t get enough of the jumping? Be sure to check out the Kentucky CSI4* Invitational Grand Prix jumping competition, elevated to the 4* level this year. The jumping, which takes place in the Rolex Stadium, begins on Friday with the $35,000 Welcome Speed Cup, followed by the new $35,000 Special 2 Phase on Saturday afternoon and the climactic $225,000 CSI4* Invitational Grand Prix on Saturday after the CCI cross-country eventing phases have ended.

Brush up on eventing. Watch the sport’s pros explain the subtleties of their sport in US Equestrian’s Learning Center—and use their wisdom to become a more informed fan or a better eventing athlete yourself. Visit usef.org/learn and scroll to the Eventing Videos category, where you’ll find an introduction to cross-country riding, a peek inside the cross-country phase’s vet box, tips for walking a cross-country course, training exercises, and more.

PHOTOS: LESLIE POTTER/US EQUESTRIAN

“You’ve got to keep knocking on the doors,” Coleman said afterwards. “Eventually, one of them’s got to open.”

Above: Tamie Smith and Mai Baum collect their trophies in 2023 after becoming the first U.S. athlete and horse to win the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian since 2008.

STRATEGIES STRESS-REDUCTION

STRATEGIES STRESS-REDUCTION

“Emphasize having fun and building skills that will grow habits and enhance character,” Dr. Jessica Bartley advises parents of young equestrians. “It is more than just winning and losing that matter.”

For Stress Awareness Month in April, we collected wisdom from the psychology and equestrian worlds to help you take stock of your tools for de-stressing, from spending time with your equine partner to setting goals and routines.

BY ZACK RYLE

PHOTO: SHELLEY PAULSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Stress is something we all deal with every day in our lives. Horses can be excellent stress relievers, but other aspects of the equestrian life—from competition, horse care and management, to even how you budget and finance your horse needs and activities—can be stressinducing. Having the right tools to manage stress effectively is vital to being the best equestrian you can be. In recognition of Stress Awareness Month in April, we consulted with several experts to help build out your stressrelief strategies.

Stressors can come in all shapes and sizes. Dr. Jessica Bartley, Senior Director of Psychological Services at the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, works with both the individual athletes and the teams that comprise Team USA to help provide mental health support, stress management counseling, and more.

“Among a recent survey of our Olympians and Paralympians about stress, the number one concern was adequate sleep, with more than half selecting this as a concern. This could range from jet lag to not being able to go to bed because you have so much on your mind. Inadequate sleep really affects your mental health,” stated Dr. Bartley. “A close second to sleep is disordered eating and body image problems.”

When working with elite athletes, whether it is in one-on-one counseling or with teams, she focuses on the toolbox method.

“I may be able to add an item or two to your toolbox, but mainly I am working with the athlete on learning when to use each tool that is already in your toolbox,” said Dr. Bartley. “Items in the toolbox can range from sleep, nutrition, mindfulness, meditation, strength

“Horses can teach us so much in our own mental health,” said Dr. Sally Broder, Executive Director of USEF Community Outreach Organization HorseSensing in Shelbyville, Ky.

conditioning, and music. Knowing when to effectively pull each one is vital to an athlete’s mental health.”

Rebecca Hart is no stranger to competition at the international level. A four-time equestrian Paralympian who has medaled at the Paralympics and the FEI World Equestrian Games, Hart notes that handling stress is a part of competing at the highest level.

“The pressure of being an equestrian Paralympian can be a lot, from the pressure of representing your country to sponsors and the horse owners,” stated Hart. “It is not that any one of

those is putting the pressure on me, but I know what each has invested to get me to where I am, and I want to do a good job and perform for them.”

While the pressure is there, Hart said that being an analytical thinker and having plans on plans is important to pushing through stress.

“I have a couple main ways I work through stress. First, I have a strong support structure. My sister is my one contact person that I can call whenever I need and help me handle emotional stress,” said Hart. “I also need alone time when I am stressed.

PHOTO: SHELLEY PAULSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Whenever I go to a competition, I will go to the competition space by myself and spend a few hours meditating there. I am big on visualizing and going over what I am going to do.”

For equestrians, part of stress management can actually be spending time with our equine partners, according to Dr. Sally Broder, Executive Director of USEF Community Outreach Organization HorseSensing in Shelbyville, Ky.

“Horses can teach us so much in our own mental health,” stated Dr. Broder. “For the longest time, we all knew that, but now there is proven research behind the benefits of Equine Assisted Learning (EAL).”

In research published in the Journal of Trauma and Treatment in 2018, scientists noted that “Horse and human brains develop from the bottom up and inside out. EAL is effective in treating depression, anxiety, low self- esteem, attention deficit disorder (ADHD), behavioral problems, PTSD, aggression, and substance abuse. Horses speak in body language. They are hyper-vigilant prey animals. Their survival depends upon being ‘other centered’ whereas humans are ‘self-centered.’ Horses see the world as it is. They are 100% honest and communicate only how they are thinking and feeling in each exact moment. They do not misrepresent themselves and they do not manipulate or send mixed signals.”

Dr. Broder and her team at HorseSensing work primarily to provide equine therapy for veterans transitioning back to civilian life and with people in recovery from addictions to help provide a solid path to staying clean and sober. As an example, Dr. Broder talked about how a similar trait between veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and horses can help both human and equine alike.

“Many veterans with PTSD are also hyper-vigilant, and we teach that this is a common trait with a horse,” stated Dr. Broder.

“Please, enjoy the competitions,” Paralympian Rebecca Hart reminded equestrian athletes. “The world will not end if it doesn’t go to your plan. Give yourself grace.”

“We work with our veterans on their breathing entering the stalls, but we also work with them on being a leader with the horse. Since the horses are hyper-vigilant too, we tell them they need to remain calm, stroke their neck, and work on relaxing the horse. And you can see it happen. Using these techniques not only calms the horse, but it also calms the veteran as well.”

When helping athletes work through any of the stresses they encounter, Dr. Bartley has one simple reminder that is good for everyone, from Olympians to those who are stepping into a barn for the first time. “You as an athlete are more than just your sport,” said Dr. Bartley.

Tips for Coping with Stress

Stress is common in everyone’s life and can take many different forms. Each expert shared their best tips on how to handle stress for each of the following categories of equestrians:

Learn More on USEF.org

Did you know that USEF members can access a mental health first-aid hotline as part of their membership benefits? Visit usef.org/join-usef/health-insurance for details on this benefit offered through mygroup.com.

And check out our online Learning Center at usef.org/ learn for resources on a broad range of topics, from a pre- and post-ride stretching routine to tools to help you or your child prepare for lessons and competition. The Learning Center’s “I Am US Equestrian” and “Featured Videos” sections also highlight some equestrians’ personal stories of resilience and the role of horses and the equestrian community in improving one’s quality of life.

PHOTO: AVERY WALLACE/US EQUESTRIAN

01 For All Equestrians

“When you think about it, routines and goal-setting are important for all performers,” said Dr. Bartley. “And I use that term in the broadest sense, as this goes for everyone from bankers and surgeons to equestrians.”

“Breathing and grounding are important for all equestrians,” said Paralympian Hart. “It is important to also give yourself a few moments of reprieve, not only before a round, but I find it beneficial to do after a round as well.”

“It really is all about consciousness,” explained Dr. Broder. “With our clients, we work extensively on being in the moment, focusing, and deep breathing.”

02 For Young Equestrians

“I really think it is important to sharpen the tools in your toolbox early. This can happen during a test in class as much as it can happen from a competition. Develop each tool because you don’t know when you will need it,” Dr. Bartley said.

“Please, enjoy the competitions,” Hart reminded. “The world will not end if it doesn’t go to your plan. Give yourself grace. For Paralympians, it is vital to learn how to play the game with the cards you were dealt.”

“Slow down! It really is all about managing emotions when you are an equestrian,” Dr. Broder said.

03 For Parents of Children Dealing with Stress

“Emphasize having fun and building skills that will grow habits and enhance character. It is more than just winning and losing that matter,” noted Dr. Bartley.

“Listen to your children,” Hart said. “I would also add that it is important to give them time to work through a problem or emotion, encouraging them to ask for help and knowing when to step in and help, if needed.”

“Focus on assisting your children with their deep breathing. It is also fun to do stretching with them,” said Dr. Broder.

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PHOTO: COURTESY OF ZOETIS

Orthobiologics, also known as regenerative medicine devices or RMDs, can be beneficial in treating both arthritis in joints and soft-tissue injuries.

VETERINARY Q&A: REGENERATIVE MEDICINE DEVICES FOR EQUINE JOINT PAIN

BY GLENYE CAIN OAKFORD

Orthobiologics, therapies that derive from your horse’s own natural mechanisms for healing, offer great promise for veterinary therapies, as Dr. Liberty Getman, DVM, DACVS, from Zoetis details.

Devices used in regenerative medicine are rapidly evolving in veterinary medicine. These innovations use orthobiologics—therapies developed from the horse’s own blood, cells, or tissues—to promote healing. That has added some stall-side management options for veterinarians and their clients, the horse owners and managers who care for equine athletes. But what do regenerative medicine devices (RMDs) like platelet-rich plasma therapy and autologous protein solutions involve and how do they help? How do they differ from other treatments, and can they be used in conjunction with other therapies?

We sat down with equine surgeon Dr. Liberty Getman, who also is an equine technical services veterinarian with the largest standalone global veterinary pharmaceutical company, Zoetis, to ask these questions and find out more about orthobiologics and their use. Getman calls orthobiologic therapies, also called regenerative medicine devices, “a game-changer” in veterinary medicine but notes that they are more helpful for some equine problems than others.

What are the benefits of orthobiologics compared to more traditional treatments people might be more familiar with?

In my experience, we’re trying to give a horse the same amount of pain relief that they would get from a more traditional treatment like a steroid. But the benefit to using an orthobiologic is that we know that, over time with repeated use, steroids actually cause further cartilage breakdown and joint destruction. So what we’re really trying to do is put a product in the joint

that not only is going to relieve the horse’s pain, but also help to heal whatever’s going on in that joint and not contribute to further joint damage.

Orthobiologics is kind of an umbrella term, but the ones that we’re using specifically are going to help decrease the inflammation in the joints, heal some of the damage that’s already there, and hopefully prevent any arthritis from progressing at a faster pace.

How do they work?

The substances these regenerative medicine devices produce, or at least in the three that Zoetis has, are growth factors, which promote healing, and anti-inflammatory proteins, which decrease inflammation 1,2. All of these types of proteins are found in the horse’s blood. We take those proteins--the good, healing proteins and the anti-inflammatory proteins--out of your horse’s blood, concentrate them, and then put them back into your horse’s joints. They’re not drugs; they’re not classified as drugs by the Food and Drug Administration. They’re proteins from your horse’s own body and blood that are meant to help heal the joint, decrease inflammation1,2, and slow the progression of arthritis.

1. Bertone AL, Ishihara A, Zekas LJ, et al. Evaluation of a single intra-articular injection of autologous protein solution for treatment of osteoarthritis in horses. Am J Vet Res. 2014;75(2):141 -151. doi: 10.2460/ajvr.75.2.141.

2. Muir R, Reisbig N, Baria M, et al. The concentration of plasma provides additional bioactive proteins in platelet and autologous protein solutions. The American J of Sports Medicine. 2019;47(8):1955 -1963.

Are there horses for whom that kind of orthobiologic therapy might not be appropriate?

I think probably as many as 80% of the lameness cases in performance horses that I see could benefit from one of these regenerative therapies. The cases that don’t see as much benefit are those that already have severe joint damage. So if they have severe bone-on-bone osteoarthritis or are very lame, we know at that point, that’s probably a lost cause in that joint; nothing can regrow cartilage once it’s gone. These therapies work for just about every type of lameness and most degrees of lameness until you get to those very, very severe cases and those end-stage joints.

Is it safe to give a horse fairly regular therapy with an orthobiologic like a Pro-Stride® APS device if, say, they are older or have some history of needing joint injections with steroids for maintenance?

It would be my preference to use a Pro-Stride APS device rather than steroids for maintenancetype injections, because, although steroids do provide pain relief, repeated steroid use in a joint over time is going to cause further cartilage breakdown. When those were the only products we had to treat achy or painful joints, it was appropriate to use them. But I think now we also have products that aren’t going to contribute the joint damage, and it’s our job as veterinarians and horse owners to do what’s best for the horse and what’s best for the joint in a specific case.

In general, a maintenance schedule with something like Pro-Stride is going to be similar to a maintenance schedule with steroid injections. Every horse is different, depending on their degree of lameness, and the disease that’s in that joint. But I would say, on average, I’ve noticed in my personal practice that you’re going to get about the same amount of pain relief in terms of time, and maybe a little bit longer, with Pro-Stride than you do with steroids. I certainly have clients who felt like the effects lasted longer. But the biggest thing for me is this, especially if you have

“THEY’RE PROTEINS FROM YOUR HORSE’S OWN BODY AND BLOOD .…TO HELP HEAL THE JOINT, DECREASE INFLAMMATION, AND SLOW THE PROGRESSION OF ARTHRITIS.”

a horse who’s a little bit younger or middle-aged: when you inject the horse’s hocks with steroids the first time, you might get a year out of that, but the next time, it might be nine months. And the next time it might be six months. So you’d get progressively shorter action out of a steroid injection because the joint is continuing to break down, and the steroids are speeding that up.

Every horse is different. And with as with anything, the more advanced the disease gets, the harder it is to find any sort of silver bullet for it. But what I do in a lot of those cases who have more advanced arthritis is, not to say that I would never use steroids in them, but instead, to prescribe steroids one year and Pro-Stride the next in an alternating fashion.

Another thing to consider is that, as these horses get older, some of them are more prone to some metabolic conditions. And we know that when you put steroids in horses that have or are at risk for metabolic disease or insulin resistance, steroids can increase their risk of developing laminitis. Pro-Stride won’t do that. So with any horses that are getting a little bit on the older side, I do strongly suggest the clients to go with Pro-Stride.

PHOTO: COURTESTY OF ZOETIS

How much difference is there in terms of cost to the horse owner?

I can’t really give you any exact numbers, because obviously it varies from clinic to clinic and from one part of the country to another. But I will say, these therapies aren’t exorbitantly expensive. I think most people’s fear is that, if you’re spending $750 on hock injections now, is the regenerative medicine device going to be more like $3,000? And the short answer is no.

I would encourage people to reach out to their veterinarians and see what their price point is. But I would say, depending on the number of joints you’re doing and the size of the joint that you’re doing, we’re talking a few hundred dollars’ difference, depending on how many joints you’re treating.

What kind of workload can a horse perform after an RMD treatment?

If it’s a routine joint injection, then I’m going to have you get back on your horse in two or three days and do some light work for a couple of days before returning to full work again. Every veterinarian is going to have their own preference, but I would say two or three days is what most people are recommending for a joint. If it’s a soft tissue injury, that’s going to depend on the extent and type of injury that the horse has. That’s usually going to be a longer process.

In general, my clients can expect the same follow up protocol they have with steroid injections, with the caveat that you need to give the injection a solid two to three weeks before you’re going to see the full effect.

The procedure for RMDs like Pro-Stride is similar to that of traditional joint injections, with the horse sedated and the solution injected sterilely.

Why does it take longer to see the positive effects of an RMD like ProStride than it does to see those effects from steroid injections?

I always tell people that it’s going to be about two or three weeks before they see the full effect of a Pro-Stride APS device therapy, but an important point to make is that even though it might take that amount of time to see the full effect, you can still put your horse back to work in the same timeframe that you would with a steroid injection. Most of my horses got about three days off with a steroid injection and also get about three days off with Pro-Stride. That’s also going to be clinician-dependent. In general, you don’t need to give your horse more time off, but it does take longer for Pro-Stride to have its full effect. The reason is because it works on cell signaling; it’s relying on those proteins to go in and bind to different receptors. That’s a slower system than simply pouring water on a fire, which is more how the steroids operate. But I look at it this way; if you put out the fire in front of you and the forest is still burning behind you, you’re not going to be able to pour enough water to put the whole fire out. Pro-Stride puts water on the fire in front of you but also turns off the bigger fire.

What should the horse owner know about the procedure and how it’s done? And should the horse be sedated?

Yes, the horse should be sedated. There will be a blood draw, because these proteins are found in your horse’s blood— that’s where we get them from. It’s just a simple sterile surgical prep on your horse’s jugular vein. The veterinarian will pull 60cc of blood sterilely, so not a lot. And then that will get processed with the device in a two step process using a centrifuge. While that’s happening, it’s just going to be like any other joint injection from there on: the horse will be sedated, the joints will have a sterile prep put on them, and the solution will be injected sterilely.

We’ve talked a lot about using orthobiologics to manage arthritis in joints, but can they also help soft-tissue injuries?

Orthobiologics are certainly the preferred method of therapy for soft-tissue injuries. The Restigen® platelet-rich plasma (PRP) device has been intensively studied in soft-tissue injuries, and PRP would be my preference for those. However, there is some emerging research looking at Pro-Stride in soft-tissue injuries, and it seems to work well, too5. So you can use either, but the most extensive research so far has been behind using Restigen PRP for soft-tissue injuries3,4

We also use CenTrate®, a bone marrow aspirate (BMA) device, for soft-tissue injuries or for a soft-tissue structure that attaches to a bone—so a tendon or a ligament where it’s attaching to bone. The difference between CenTrate BMA and Pro-Stride or Restigen is that, in addition to having the same healing growth factors and antiinflammatory proteins, it also has stem cells in it as well. These are live cells, and you get them from the bone marrow. It’s a little bit of a different process: you take a bone marrow aspirate from the horse’s sternum to get these.

Typically, I use CenTrate on these kinds of injuries that I know are going to be hard to get to heal, like chronic hind-limb proximal suspensory issues, meniscal problems in the stifle—issues that we know are difficult to heal. That’s where bone marrow concentrate seems to show the most promise.

3. McIlwraith W, Frisbie D, René P, et al. Joint diease in the horse (2nd edition). 2016;1. doi: 10.1016/C2012-0-00759-4.

4. Chahla J, Cinque M, Piuzzi N, et al. A call for standardization in platelet-rich plasma preparation protocols and composition reporting. J of Bone and Joint Surgery, Incorporated. 2017;99(20):1769-1779. doi: 10.2106/JBJS.16.01374

5. Gaesser AM, Underwood C, Linardi RL, et al. Evaluation of autologous protein solution injection for treatment of superficial digital flexor tendonitis in an equine model. Frontiers Vet Sci. 2021;8. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2021.697551.

PHOTO: SHELLEY PAULSON PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY OF ZOETIS

We’ve seen so much change in veterinary medicine in the last 20 years or so. As a veterinarian, how much difference do these new orthobiologic therapies make to your ability to manage equine injuries?

They’ve been a game-changer, literally one of the most exciting advancements in treatment that we’ve had in veterinary medicine. As a human who has her own sports injuries, I can’t wait until the human side catches up with what we’re able to do for our equine athletes. Based on my experiences, I believe regenerative medicine has dramatically decreased healing times, has improved the healing in our soft tissue structures, and has allowed these structures to heal with less scar tissue, which can decrease their chance of re-injury down the road. It’s been so much healthier for the joints than repeated steroid use. So we’re keeping these joints healthier for longer, which is keeping our horses in work for longer.

Inset: Equine surgeon Dr. Liberty Getman, who also is equine technical services veterinarian for Zoetis, estimates that as many as 80% of the lameness cases she sees in performance horses could benefit from one of these regenerative medicine devices.

Above: “It’s our job as veterinarians and horse owners to do what’s best for the horse and what’s best for the joint in a specific case,” says equine surgeon Dr. Liberty Getman, a board-certified equine technical services veterinarian for Zoetis.

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Penalties for Rule Violations

OFFICIAL NOTICES

Contributed by the Regulation Department unless otherwise indicated. The following official notices are only intended to give penalty information for a given case and not to disclose the factual basis for each violation or penalty. For matters heard by the Hearing Committee, a Hearing Panel decides each case based on the evidence presented at the hearing and takes into account many factors that may raise or lower a given penalty. For example, the Hearing Committee takes into account such things as whether the violation was intentional or unintentional, the nature of the violation, the credibility of witnesses, Penalty Guidelines, penalties in similar cases, past violations of Federation rules by a respondent, and many other mitigating factors.

US Equestrian members can access and search the United States Equestrian Federation Suspension List online at USequestrian.org. Hover over the Compete tab on the homepage. In the menu that appears, click Ineligibility List under Rules, Regulations, and Grievances.

ALWALEED ALRASHID , of Tomball, Texas, violated Chapter 4, GR410 – GR411 of this Federation, in connection with the Blue Ribbon Summer Festival I Horse Show held on June 15-18, 2023, in that he, as trainer, exhibited the horse PETER PAN Z after it had been administered and/or contained in its body 2 (1-hyroxyethyl) promazine sulfoxide.

For this violation it was determined that pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1b and GR703.1f, ALWALEED ALRASHID shall be found not in good standing, suspended from membership, and forbidden from the privilege of taking any part whatsoever in any Licensed Competition for two (2) months and is excluded from all competition grounds (cannot be on grounds from the time participants are admitted on the competition grounds until the last time for departure). For example, suspended individuals may not be on competition grounds during schooling or other such days prior to the start of the competition for any purpose, including such things as: coaching riders, training or schooling horses, or trailering horses on or off competition grounds during Licensed Competitions for that period. Furthermore, suspended individuals are excluded from: (1) competition grounds as an exhibitor, participant, or spectator; (2) from participating in all Federation affairs and activities; (3) from holding or exercising office in the Federation or in any Licensed Competition; and (4) from attending, observing, or participating in any event, forum, meeting, program, clinic, task force, or committee of the Federation, sponsored by or conducted by the Federation, or held in connection with the Federation and any of its activities. Regulations as to suspended persons are set forth in detail in Chapter

7, GR704.

The two-month suspension shall commence on June 1, 2024, and terminate at midnight on July 31, 2024. Any horse or horses owned, leased, or of any partnership, corporation or stable of his, or shown in his name or for his reputation (whether such interest was held at the time of the alleged violation or acquired thereafter) shall also be suspended, pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1c for the same period.

ALWALEED ALRASHID was also fined $3,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. In connection with this penalty all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by PETER PAN Z at said competition were redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

CHARLES CASEY of Montpelier, Va., violated Chapter 4, GR410 of this Federation, in connection with the Showday National Horse Show held on July 5-9, 2023, in that he, as trainer, exhibited the horse TELEMACO after it had been administered and/or contained in its body flunixin in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level.

For this violation it was determined that CHARLES CASEY be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $1,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by TELEMACO at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

VALARIE BOATMAN, of South Lyon, Mich., violated Chapter 4, GR410-GR411 of this Federation, in connection with the National Dressage Pony Cup and Small Horse Championships and NDPC Partner Show I Horse Show held on July 7-8, 2023, in that she, as trainer and owner, exhibited the

horse, MSU SUPERSTICIOUS+// after it had been administered and/or contained in its body o-desmetheyl pyrilamine.

For this violation it was determined that pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1b and GR703.1f, VALARIE BOATMAN shall be found not in good standing, suspended from membership, and forbidden from the privilege of taking any part whatsoever in any Licensed Competition for one (1) month and is excluded from all competition grounds (cannot be on grounds from the time participants are admitted on the competition grounds until the last time for departure). For example, suspended individuals may not be on competition grounds during schooling or other such days prior to the start of the competition for any purpose, including such things as: coaching riders, training or schooling horses, or trailering horses on or off competition grounds during Licensed Competitions for that period. Furthermore, suspended individuals are excluded from: (1) competition grounds as an exhibitor, participant, or spectator; (2) from participating in all Federation affairs and activities; (3) from holding or exercising office in the Federation or in any Licensed Competition; and (4) from attending, observing, or participating in any event, forum, meeting, program, clinic, task force, or committee of the Federation, sponsored by or conducted by the Federation, or held in connection with the Federation and any of its activities. Regulations as to suspended persons are set forth in detail in Chapter 7, GR704.

The one-month suspension shall commence on July 1, 2024, and terminate at midnight on July 31, 2024. Any horse or horses owned, leased, or of any partnership, corporation or stable of hers,

or shown in her name or for her reputation, (whether such interest was held at the time of the alleged violation or acquired thereafter), shall also be suspended, pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1c for the same period.

VALARIE BOATMAN was also fined $1,500 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. In connection with this penalty all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by MSU SUPERSTICIOUS+// at said competition were redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

STACY PARVEY-LARSSON of Reddick, Fla., violated Chapter 4, GR410 of this Federation, in connection with the Summer Sizzler Dressage 2 Horse Show held on July 8-9, 2023, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse BENIDETTO after it had been administered and/or contained in its body methocarbamol in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level, and guaifenesin.

For this violation it was determined that STACY PARVEYLARSSON be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $1,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by BENIDETTO at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

NINA ALARIO of Petaluma, Calif., violated Chapter 4, GR410 of this Federation, in connection with the Summer in the Rockies 4 Horse Show held on July 5-9, 2023, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse PEGASUS LEWIS after it had been administered and/or contained in its body methocarbamol in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level, and guaifenesin.

For this violation it was determined that NINA ALARIO be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $1,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by PEGASUS LEWIS at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

JORDAN KILKENNY of Wellington, Fla., violated Chapter 7, GR702.1.a, GR702.1.d, and GR702.1.f; Chapter 8, GR838.4.a, GR838.4.m; and the USEF Code of Conduct of this Federation, in connection with the Upperville Colt & Horse Show held in Upperville, Va., on June 5-11, 2023, in that on or about June 8, 2023, Jordan Kilkenny was witnessed schooling and/or riding a horse in an aggressive manner including excessively whipping and spurring the horse. The horse was identified as CAP FERRAT. Indications of maltreatment, including marks on the left barrel and flank, were visible and remained present upon examination of the horse by the show veterinarian on June 11, 2023.

The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution with Mr. Kilkenny following an

investigation and review, in which Mr. Kilkenny was represented by Counsel and fully cooperated with the Federation. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the facts and mitigating factors in this case and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.

For this violation it was determined that pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1b and GR703.1f, of the Federation’s Rules, JORDAN KILKENNY shall be found not in good standing, suspended from membership and forbidden from the privilege of taking any part whatsoever in any Licensed Competition for four (4) months, and is excluded from all competition grounds (cannot be on grounds from the time participants are admitted on the competition grounds until the last time for departure). For example, suspended individuals may not be on competition grounds during schooling or other such days prior to the start of the competition for any purpose, including such things as: coaching riders, training or schooling horses, or trailering horses on or off competition grounds during Licensed Competitions for that period. Furthermore, suspended

individuals are excluded from: (1) competition grounds as an exhibitor, participant, or spectator; (2) from participating in all Federation affairs and activities; (3) from holding or exercising office in the Federation or in any Licensed Competition; and (4) from attending, observing, or participating in any event, forum, meeting, program, clinic, task force, or committee of the Federation, sponsored by or conducted by the Federation, or held in connection with the Federation and any of its activities. Regulations as to suspended persons are set forth in detail in Chapter 7, GR704.

The four-month suspension shall commence on April 1, 2024, and terminate at midnight on July 31, 2024. Any horse or horses owned, leased, or of any partnership, corporation or stable of his, or shown in his name or for his reputation (whether such interest was held at the time of the alleged violation or acquired thereafter) shall also be suspended, pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1c for the same period.

JORDAN KILKENNY was also fined $4,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j.

OLIVIA GOLDEN of Reading, Pa., violated Chapter 7, GR702.1.a, and GR702.1.d; and the USEF Code of Conduct of this Federation, in connection with the Upperville Colt & Horse Show held in Upperville, Va., on June 5-11, 2023, in that on or about June 8, 2023, she permitted and watched Jordan Kilkenny school and/or ride the horse CAP FERRAT in an aggressive manner including excessively whipping and spurring the horse. Indications of maltreatment, including marks on the left barrel and flank, were visible and remained present upon examination of the horse by the show veterinarian on June 11, 2023.

The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution with Ms. Golden following an investigation and review, in which Ms. Golden fully cooperated with the Federation and accepted responsibility for her actions. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the facts and mitigating factors in this case and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.

For this violation it was determined that pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1b and GR703.1f, of

the Federation’s Rules, OLIVIA GOLDEN shall be found not in good standing, suspended from membership and forbidden from the privilege of taking any part whatsoever in any Licensed Competition for one (1) month, and is excluded from all competition grounds (cannot be on grounds from the time participants are admitted on the competition grounds until the last time for departure). For example, suspended individuals may not be on competition grounds during schooling or other such days prior to the start of the competition for any purpose, including such things as: coaching riders, training or schooling horses, or trailering horses on or off competition grounds during Licensed Competitions for that period. Furthermore, suspended individuals are excluded from: (1) competition grounds as an exhibitor, participant, or spectator; (2) from participating in all Federation affairs and activities; (3) from holding or exercising office in the Federation or in any Licensed Competition; and (4) from attending, observing, or participating in any event, forum, meeting, program, clinic, task force, or committee of the Federation, sponsored by or conducted by the Federation, or held in connection with the Federation and any of its activities. Regulations as to suspended persons are set forth in detail in Chapter 7, GR704.

The one-month suspension shall commence on June 1, 2024, and terminate at midnight on June 30, 2024. Any horse or horses owned, leased, or of any partnership, corporation or stable of hers, or shown in her name or for her reputation (whether such interest was held at the time of the alleged violation or acquired thereafter) shall also be suspended, pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1c for the same period.

OLIVIA GOLDEN was also fined $1,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j.

MICHAEL NEWMAN of Smyrna, Ga., violated Chapter 4, GR410-411 of this Federation, in connection with the Atlanta Fall Classic I Horse Show held on November 10-13, 2022, in that he, as trainer, exhibited the horse ELEMENTARY after it had been administered and/or contained in its body gamma-aminobutyric acid.

The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution with Mr. Newman following a review, in which Mr. Newman was represented by Counsel and fully

cooperated with the Federation. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the facts and mitigating factors in this case and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.

For this violation it was determined that pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1b and GR703.1f, MICHAEL NEWMAN shall be found not in good standing, suspended from membership, and forbidden from the privilege of taking any part whatsoever in any Licensed Competition for five (5) months and is excluded from all Competition grounds (cannot be on grounds from the time participants are admitted on the Competition grounds until the last time for departure) during this time period. For example, suspended individuals may not be on Competition grounds during schooling or other such days prior to the start of the Competition for any purpose, including such things as: coaching riders, training or schooling horses or trailering horses on or off Competition grounds during Licensed Competitions for that period. Furthermore, suspended individuals are excluded from: (1) competition grounds as an exhibitor, participant or spectator; (2) from participating in all Federation affairs and activities, (3) from holding or exercising office in the Federation or in any Licensed Competition; and (4) from attending, observing or participating in any event, forum, meeting, program, clinic, task force, or committee of the Federation, sponsored by or conducted by the Federation, or held in connection with the Federation and any of its activities. Regulations as to suspended persons are set forth in detail in General Rule 704.

The five-month suspension shall commence on November 1, 2023, and terminate at midnight on March 31, 2024. Any horse or horses owned, leased, or of any partnership, corporation or stable of his, or shown in his name or for his reputation (whether such interest was held at the time of the alleged violation or acquired thereafter) shall also be suspended, pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1c for the same period.

MICHAEL NEWMAN was also fined $5,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. In connection with this penalty all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by ELEMENTARY at said competition were redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

ROBB WALLEN of Temecula, Calif., violated Chapter 4, GR410 of this Federation, in connection

with the Charity Fair Horse Show held on June 7-10, 2023, in that he, as trainer, exhibited the horse PEWTER after it had been administered and/or contained in its body flunixin in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level.

For this violation it was determined that ROBB WALLEN be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $1,500 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by PEWTER at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

CATHERINE SAUER of Spokane, Wash., violated GR414 of this Federation, in connection with the Charity Fair Horse Show held on June 7-10, 2023, in that she, as owner, permitted the horse PEWTER to be exhibited after it had been administered shockwave therapy without the required 72-hour withdrawal period.

For this violation it was determined that pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1b and GR703.1f, CATHERINE SAUER shall be found not in good standing, suspended from membership, and forbidden from the privilege of taking any part whatsoever in any Licensed Competition for one (1) month and is excluded from all competition grounds (cannot be on grounds from the time participants are admitted on the competition grounds until the last time for departure). For example, suspended individuals may not be on competition grounds during schooling or other such days prior to the start of the competition for any purpose, including such things as: coaching riders, training or schooling horses, or trailering horses on or off competition grounds during Licensed Competitions for that period. Furthermore, suspended individuals are excluded from: (1) competition grounds as an exhibitor, participant, or spectator; (2) from participating in all Federation affairs and activities; (3) from holding or exercising office in the Federation or in any Licensed Competition; and (4) from attending, observing, or participating in any event, forum, meeting, program, clinic, task force, or committee of the Federation, sponsored by or conducted by the Federation, or held in connection with the Federation and any of its activities.

The one-month suspension shall commence on June 1, 2024, and terminate at midnight on June 31, 2024. Any horse or horses

owned, leased, or of any partnership, corporation or stable of hers, or shown in her name or for her reputation (whether such interest was held at the time of the alleged violation or acquired thereafter) shall also be suspended, pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1c for the same period.

CATHERINE SAUER was also fined $1,500 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by PEWTER at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

KATHLEEN HAASOGONOWSKI of Medway, Mass., violated Chapter 4, GR410-411 of this Federation, in connection with Fieldstone Show Park June Week 2 Horse Show held on June 21-25, 2023, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse ORLEANS after it had been administered and/or contained in its body trazodone. The facts and mitigating factors in this case supported the following penalty even though it is below the suggested range for Category III Violations outlined in the Drugs and Medications Penalty Guidelines.

For this violation it was determined that pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1b and GR703.1f, KATHLEEN HAAS-OGONOWSKI shall be found not in good standing, suspended from membership, and forbidden from the privilege of taking any part whatsoever in any Licensed Competition for three (3) months and is excluded from all competition grounds (cannot be on grounds from the time participants are admitted on the competition grounds until the last time for departure). For example, suspended individuals may not be on competition grounds during schooling or other such days prior to the start of the competition for any purpose, including such things as: coaching riders, training or schooling horses, or trailering horses on or off competition grounds during Licensed Competitions for that period. Furthermore, suspended individuals are excluded from:

(1) competition grounds as an exhibitor, participant, or spectator; (2) from participating in all Federation affairs and activities;

(3) from holding or exercising office in the Federation or in any Licensed Competition; and

(4) from attending, observing, or participating in any event, forum, meeting, program, clinic, task force, or committee of the Federation, sponsored by or conducted by the Federation, or held

in connection with the Federation and any of its activities. Regulations as to suspended persons are set forth in detail in General Rule 704.

The three-month suspension shall commence on April 1, 2024, and terminate at midnight on June 30, 2024. Any horse or horses owned, leased, or of any partnership, corporation or stable of hers, or shown in her name or for her reputation (whether such interest was held at the time of the alleged violation or acquired thereafter) shall also be suspended, pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1c for the same period.

KATHLEEN HASSOGONOWSKI was fined $3,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by BLACK PRONG NIGHT STALKER at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

MICHELE GOODRICH of Simsbury, Conn., violated GR410-411 of this Federation, in connection with the Westbrook Shoreline II Horse Show held on July 6-8, 2023, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horses HEDERIGGY and MISS DEMEANOR after they had been administered and/or contained in their body 4-Hydroxytrazodone, meta-chlorophenyl piperazine (mCPP), & trazodone.

For this violation it was determined that pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1b and GR703.1f, MICHELE GOODRICH shall be found not in good standing, suspended from membership, and forbidden from the privilege of taking any part whatsoever in any Licensed Competition for three (3) months and is excluded from all competition grounds (cannot be on grounds from the time participants are admitted on the competition grounds until the last time for departure). For example, suspended individuals may not be on competition grounds during schooling or other such days prior to the start of the competition for any purpose, including such things as: coaching riders, training or schooling horses, or trailering horses on or off competition grounds during Licensed Competitions for that period. Furthermore, suspended individuals are excluded from: (1) competition grounds as an exhibitor, participant, or spectator; (2) from participating in all Federation affairs and activities; (3) from holding or exercising office in the Federation or in any Licensed Competition; and (4) from attending, observing,

or participating in any event, forum, meeting, program, clinic, task force, or committee of the Federation, sponsored by or conducted by the Federation, or held in connection with the Federation and any of its activities.

Regulations as to suspended persons are set forth in detail in General Rule 704.

The three-month suspension shall commence on May 1, 2024, and terminate at midnight on July 31, 2024. Any horse or horses owned, leased, or of any partnership, corporation or stable of hers, or shown in her name or for her reputation (whether such interest was held at the time of the alleged violation or acquired thereafter) shall also be suspended, pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1c for the same period.

MICHELE GOODRICH was also fined $3,500 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by HEDERIGGY and MISS DEMEANOR at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

JONELLE MULLEN of Warrenton, Va., as trainer, violated Chapter 4, GR410-411 of this Federation, in connection with the Adequan/USEF Junior Hunter National Championship - East held on June 27-July 1, 2023, in that the horse WORTH QUOTING was exhibited after it had been administered and/or contained in its body cetirizine. The facts and mitigating factors in this case supported the following penalty even though it is below the suggested range for Category II Violations outlined in the Drugs and Medications Penalty Guidelines.

For this second offense violation it was determined that pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1b and GR703.1f, JONELLE MULLEN shall be found not in good standing, suspended from membership, and forbidden from the privilege of taking any part whatsoever in any Licensed Competition for one (1) month and is excluded from all competition grounds (cannot be on grounds from the time participants are admitted on the competition grounds until the last time for departure). For example, suspended individuals may not be on competition grounds during schooling or other such days prior to the start of the competition for any purpose, including such things as: coaching riders, training or schooling horses, or trailering horses on or off competition grounds during Licensed Competitions for that period. Furthermore, suspended

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FOR THE RECORD

individuals are excluded from: (1) competition grounds as an exhibitor, participant, or spectator; (2) from participating in all Federation affairs and activities; (3) from holding or exercising office in the Federation or in any Licensed Competition; and (4) from attending, observing, or participating in any event, forum, meeting, program, clinic, task force, or committee of the Federation, sponsored by or conducted by the Federation, or held in connection with the Federation and any of its activities. Regulations as to suspended persons are set forth in detail in General Rule 704.

The one-month suspension shall commence on June 15, 2024, and terminate at midnight on July 15, 2024. Any horse or horses owned, leased, or of any partnership, corporation or stable of hers, or shown in her name or for her reputation (whether such interest was held at the time of the alleged violation or acquired thereafter) shall also be suspended, pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1c for the same period.

JONELLE MULLEN was also fined $1,500 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by WORTH QUOTING at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

JENNIFER JONES of Milford, N.J., as trainer, violated Chapter 4, GR410-411 of this Federation, in connection with the Great Lakes Equestrian Festival III Horse Show held on July 19-23, 2023, in that the horse CELESTINE was exhibited after it had been administered and/or contained in its body cetirizine.

The facts and mitigating factors in this case supported the following penalty even though it is below the suggested range for Category II Violations outlined in the Drugs and Medications Penalty Guidelines.

For this violation it was determined that JENNIFER JONES be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $1,500 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by CELESTINE at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

CHARLOTTE COOK of Winter Park, Fla., violated Chapter 4, GR410 of this Federation, in connection with the WEC Ocala Summer #7 Horse Show held on

July 19-23, 2023, in that she, as trainer and owner, exhibited the horse QUIDO after it had been administered and/or contained in its body methocarbamol in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level, and guaifenesin.

For this violation it was determined that CHARLOTTE COOK be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $1,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by QUIDO at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

HILDA DONAHUE of Winter Park, Fla., violated Chapter 4, GR410 of this Federation, in connection with the World Equestrian Center Dressage XIV Horse Show held on August 25-26, 2023, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse CAPELO after it had been administered and/or contained in its body methocarbamol in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level, and guaifenesin.

For this violation it was determined that HILDA DONAHUE be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $1,250 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. The fine was enhanced due to the level of methocarbamol detected. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by CAPELO at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

COURTNEY DILALLA of Plainville, Mass., violated Chapter 4, GR410 of this Federation, in connection with the Fieldstone Summer Showcase 2 & NEHJA Derby Finals Horse Show held on August 22-26, 2023, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse KEY WEST after it had been administered and/or contained in its body methocarbamol in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level, and guaifenesin.

For this violation it was determined that COURTNEY DILALLA be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $1,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by KEY WEST at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

KRISTEN TRAMPOSH of Kansas City, Kan., violated Chapter 4, GR410 of this Federation, in connection with the Jubilee

Regional Championship Morgan Horse Show held on August 30-September 2, 2023, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse HIGHER ELLEVATIONS after it had been administered and/or contained in its body methocarbamol in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level, and guaifenesin.

For this violation it was determined that KRISTEN TRAMPOSH be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $1,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by HIGHER ELLEVATIONS at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

ALEXIA HONEGGER of Elizabeth, Colo., violated Chapter 4, GR410 of this Federation, in connection with the Autumn In The Rockies I Horse Show held on September 6-10, 2023, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse GELUNIA BARAKA after it had been administered and/or contained in its body methocarbamol in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level, and guaifenesin.

For this violation it was determined that ALEXIA HONEGGER be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $1,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by GELUNIA BARAKA at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

MARY TROWBRIDGE of Bridgewater, Conn., violated Chapter 4, GR410 of this Federation, in connection with the Region XIV Silverama Horse Show held on August 16-20, 2023, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse ALWAYS AN HEIR after it had been administered and/or contained in its body flunixin in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level.

For this violation it was determined that MARY TROWBRIDGE be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $1,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by ALWAYS AN HEIR at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

JESSICA CLINTON of Canton, Ga., violated Chapter 4, GR410 of this Federation, in connection with the Region XIV Silverama Horse Show held on August 16-20, 2023,

in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse BASKE ALARM after it had been administered and/or contained in its body flunixin in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level.

For this violation it was determined that JESSICA CLINTON be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $1,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by BASKE ALARM at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

LAUREN KISSEL of Canton, Ga., violated Chapter 4, GR410 of this Federation, in connection with the Aiken Summerfest II Horse Show held on August 24-27, 2023, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse NEXT CHAPTER after it had been administered and/or contained in its body flunixin in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level.

For this second offense violation it was determined that LAUREN KISSEL be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $1,500 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by NEXT CHAPTER at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.

MICHAEL NEWMAN of Smyrna, Ga., violated Chapter 4, GR403.1.c; Chapter 7, GR702.1.a, and GR702.1.d, and the USEF Code of Conduct of this Federation, in connection with the USEF Pony Finals Horse Show held in Lexington, Ky., on August 8-13, 2023, in that on or about August 13, 2023, he failed to cooperate with the veterinarian and/or their agent by failing to demonstrate a polite attitude and actions toward the Testing Technician following the selection of a horse under his training for testing. Further, it is alleged that he demanded to see the veterinarian’s credentials without introducing or otherwise appropriately identifying himself or his standing to make such a request.

The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution with Mr. Newman following an investigation and review, in which Mr. Newman was represented by Counsel and fully cooperated with the Federation. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the facts and mitigating factors in this case and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.

For this violation it was determined that MICHAEL NEWMAN be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $1,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j.

CAROLINE VAN DER MERWE of Littleton, Colo., violated Chapter 7, GR702.1.a, GR702.1.d, and GR702.1.e; Chapter 13, GR1301.6; the USEF Safe Sport Policy; and the USEF Code of Conduct of this Federation, in connection with the Summer In The Rockies 6 Horse Show held in Parker, Colo., on July 18-23, 2023, in that on or about July 20, 2023, she permitted her two (2) dogs to be loose on competition grounds, failing to leash or otherwise restrain them. As a result of the failure to restrain the dogs, they exhibited aggressive behavior towards another exhibitor’s dog. When the other exhibitor raised concerns about the incident and asked her to restrain her dog with a leash, it was reported that she spit on the other exhibitor and proceeded to yell at her.

It was further alleged that on or about July 21, 2023, after being denied entry to the 6-YearOld Classic class based upon a failure to meet the class specifications, she verbally abused several individuals, including fellow competitors, competition staff, and licensed officials. This included use of profane language directed at these individuals.

It was further alleged that on or about July 22, 2023, while she was driving a golf cart, she proceeded to drive her golf cart in an aggressive manner as if attempting to hit a fellow exhibitor who was mounted upon a horse. It was further reported that she made inappropriate comments and verbally abused the exhibitor, including using profanity and inappropriate gestures. She was later observed driving her golf cart past the exhibitor’s stalls occupied by horses, wherein she was observed pouring a liquid onto the ground in the area in front of the stalls.

The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution with Ms. Van Der Merwe following an investigation and review, in which Ms. Van Der Merwe fully cooperated with the Federation. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the facts and mitigating factors in this case and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.

For this violation it was determined that pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1b and GR703.1f, CAROLINE VAN DER MERWE shall be found not in good standing, suspended from membership,

and forbidden from the privilege of taking any part whatsoever in any Licensed Competition and is excluded from all competition grounds (cannot be on grounds from the time participants are admitted on the competition grounds until the last time for departure). For example, suspended individuals may not be on competition grounds during schooling or other such days prior to the start of the competition for any purpose, including such things as: coaching riders, training or schooling horses, or trailering horses on or off competition grounds during Licensed Competitions. Furthermore, suspended individuals are excluded from: (1) competition grounds as an exhibitor, participant, or spectator; (2) from participating in all Federation affairs and activities; (3) from holding or exercising office in the Federation or in any Licensed Competition; and (4) from attending, observing, or participating in any event, forum, meeting, program, clinic, task force, or committee of the Federation, sponsored by or conducted by the Federation, or held in connection with the Federation and any of its activities. Regulations as to suspended persons are set forth in detail in General Rule 704.

The suspension shall commence on July 23, 2023, and terminate at midnight on October 3, 2023. Any horse or horses owned, leased, or of any partnership, corporation or stable of hers, or shown in her name or for her reputation (whether such interest was held at the time of the alleged violation or acquired thereafter) shall also be suspended, pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1c for the same period.

ASHLEIGH MARZAK of Tahoka, Texas, and MONIQUE VINCENT of Marquez, Texas, violated Chapter 7, GR702.1.a, and GR702.1.d, and the USEF Code of Conduct of this Federation, in connection with the Dressage at Santa Fe I Horse Show held on July 7-8, 2023, in that on or about July 8, 2023, Monique Vincent was witnessed riding near and seemingly chasing a horse, identified as MCV OHME OHMY, on a motor bike while Ashleigh Marzak rode the horse. Additionally, prior to this, Ashleigh Marzak was witnessed striking the horse repeatedly on both shoulders with the buckle end of the reins and continued the actions even after being told to cease the conduct by the Ring Steward.

The Federation resolved this matter through an informal

resolution with Ms. Marzak and Ms. Vincent following an investigation and review, in which they were represented by Counsel and fully cooperated with the Federation. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the facts and mitigating factors in this case and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.

For this violation it was determined that ASHLEIGH MARZAK be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $2,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j.

For this violation it was determined that MONIQUE VINCENT be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a and fined $1,500 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j.

JORDAN COYLE of Central Valley, N.Y., violated Chapter 7, GR702.1.a, GR702.1.d, and GR702.1.f; Chapter 8, GR838.1.m; Chapter 13, GR1306.6; and the USEF Code of Conduct of this Federation, in connection with the HITS on the Hudson IV Horse Show held on July 19-23, 2023, and the HITS on the Hudson V Horse Show held July 26-30, 2023, in that he failed to leash or otherwise properly restrain a dog in his care, custody, and control, allowing the dog to be loose on the competition grounds on or about July 4-9, 2023, during the I Love New York horse show in Brewster, N.Y. Pursuant to GR1301.6, he was issued a Yellow Warning Card for the violation. However, in response to the issuance of the Yellow Warning Card, he proceeded to tear up the card and attempted to throw it into the ground in the presence of the Steward that had issued it.

Further, he was witnessed roughly riding horses during competition and displaying unsportsmanlike behavior. Specifically, on or about July 20, 2023, while riding VOLO’S DIAMOND during Class #417 at HITS on the Hudson IV, he was witnessed yanking forcefully backwards on the reins, whipping the horse, and forcing the horse to walk through multiple jumps, including continuing to knock down jumps during a time-out signaled pursuant to JP1737. Further, on or about July 26, 2023, while riding CORDIAMO at HITS on the Hudson V, he was witnessed yanking on the horse’s mouth after multiple jumps, causing a negative reaction and rearing by the horse, as well as his eventual elimination from the class. Despite the audible tone eliminating him from the class and a subsequent announcement over the public address system informing him of his excusal from the ring, he

proceeded forward with the horse and jumped another jump.

The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution with Mr. Coyle following an investigation and review, in which he acknowledged his unsportsmanlike actions and fully cooperated with the Federation. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the facts and mitigating factors in this case and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.

For this violation it was determined that pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1b and GR703.1f, JORDAN COYLE shall be found not in good standing, suspended from membership, and forbidden from the privilege of taking any part whatsoever in any Licensed Competition for two (2) months and is excluded from all competition grounds (cannot be on grounds from the time participants are admitted on the competition grounds until the last time for departure). For example, suspended individuals may not be on competition grounds during schooling or other such days prior to the start of the competition for any purpose, including such things as: coaching riders, training or schooling horses, or trailering horses on or off competition grounds during Licensed Competitions for that period. Furthermore, suspended individuals are excluded from: (1) competition grounds as an exhibitor, participant, or spectator; (2) from participating in all Federation affairs and activities; (3) from holding or exercising office in the Federation or in any Licensed Competition; and (4) from attending, observing, or participating in any event, forum, meeting, program, clinic, task force, or committee of the Federation, sponsored by or conducted by the Federation, or held in connection with the Federation and any of its activities. Regulations as to suspended persons are set forth in detail in General Rule 704.

The two-month suspension shall commence on June 1, 2024, and terminate at midnight on July 31, 2024. Any horse or horses owned, leased, or of any partnership, corporation or stable of his, or shown in his name or for his reputation (whether such interest was held at the time of the alleged violation or acquired thereafter) shall also be suspended, pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1c for the same period.

JORDAN COYLE was also fined $2,500 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j.

TAMARA FOOY of Stockton, Calif., violated Federation policies

and rules including Chapter 7, GR702.1.a and GR702.1.d; Chapter 8, GR844; and the USEF Code of Conduct, in connection with the Yarra Yarra Dressage August #2 Horse Show held on August 6, 2023, in Dublin, Calif., in that she submitted an altered Certificate of Veterinary Inspection for the horse CALISTRO, purporting to show an Inspection Date and Issue Date of August 1, 2023. However, the original Certificate of Veterinary Inspection had an Inspection Date and Issue Date of July 10, 2023, and the veterinarian did not alter the original Certificate and did not authorize anyone to alter the original Certificate.

The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution with Ms. Fooy following an investigation and review, in which she acknowledged and took responsibility for her actions. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the facts and mitigating factors in this case and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.

Pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1.b you shall be found not in good standing and effective November 9, 2023 and until further notice, TAMARA FOOY is hereby expelled from membership with the Federation and is denied all the privileges of membership including the ability to hold or exercise office in the Federation, attend or participate in Federation meetings, hold license(s) as an USEF or FEI official, compete in international competitions or receive USEF automatic insurance coverages, or participate in USEF group insurance programs.

TAMARA FOOY shall also be suspended from competing or taking any part whatsoever in Licensed Competitions as an exhibitor, participant or spectator pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 7, GR703.1b, and any horse or horses, completely or in part owned, leased, or of any partnership, corporation or stable of hers, or shown in her name or for her reputation, whether such interest was held at the time of the alleged violation or acquired thereafter, shall also be suspended pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 7, GR703.1c. Regulations as to suspended persons are set forth in detail in General Rule 704.

The Federation retains jurisdiction, and no sooner than three (3) years from November 9, 2023, may she apply to the Federation for reinstatement based upon certain factors including, affirmative proof of total rehabilitation, proof that she has truly accepted

responsibility for her actions and has taken steps to reform herself, has made restitution for her actions, and has performed community service to benefit the welfare of horses.

TAMARA FOOY was also fined $3,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j.

JORDAN MERCER of Micanopy, Fla., violated Chapter 7, GR702.1.a, and GR702.1.d; and the USEF Code of Conduct of this Federation, in connection with the WEC Ocala Summer #4 Horse Show held on June 27-July 2, 2023, in that on or about June 27, 2023, he was witnessed engaging in a dispute with another individual regarding the actions of a third person, which included Mr. Mercer yelling, screaming, and cursing at the individual. Further, it was reported that Mr. Mercer was heard stating to the individual in which he was engaged in the dispute that “this [dispute] is going to end in a fist fight.” It was additionally reported that he made disparaging remarks to the parent(s) of a minor athlete. It was reported that, regardless of the initial underlying dispute or grievance, his response and subsequent actions were inappropriate and disproportionate to the circumstances.

Additionally, JORDAN MERCER violated Chapter 7, GR702.1.a, GR702.1.d, and GR702.1.e; and the USEF Code of Conduct of this Federation in connection with the Ocala Summer #7 Horse Show held July 19-23, 2023, in that on or about July 19, 2023, he was witnessed engaging in a variety of behaviors that served to threaten and harass licensed officials while officials attempted to address a potential USEF Rulebook violation involving Mr. Mercer’s partner. It was further alleged that Mr. Mercer entered the dispute yelling severe obscenities at the steward. It was further reported that he was witnessed riding his horse directly at or near the steward in a manner that was perceived as threatening. It was reported that the inappropriate nature and persistence of his misconduct required the steward to call for security to intervene.

For these violations it was determined that pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1b and GR703.1f, JORDAN MERCER shall be found not in good standing, suspended from membership, and forbidden from the privilege of taking any part whatsoever in any Licensed Competition for one (1) month and is excluded from all competition grounds (cannot be on grounds from the

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time participants are admitted on the competition grounds until the last time for departure). For example, suspended individuals may not be on competition grounds during schooling or other such days prior to the start of the competition for any purpose, including such things as: coaching riders, training or schooling horses, or trailering horses on or off competition grounds during Licensed Competitions for that period. Furthermore, suspended individuals are excluded from: (1) competition grounds as an exhibitor, participant, or spectator; (2) from participating in all

Federation affairs and activities; (3) from holding or exercising office in the Federation or in any Licensed Competition; and (4) from attending, observing, or participating in any event, forum, meeting, program, clinic, task force, or committee of the Federation, sponsored by or conducted by the Federation, or held in connection with the Federation and any of its activities. Regulations as to suspended persons are set forth in detail in General Rule 704.

The one-month suspension shall commence on July 1, 2024, and terminate at midnight on July

31, 2024. Any horse or horses owned, leased, or of any partnership, corporation or stable of his, or shown in his name or for his reputation (whether such interest was held at the time of the alleged violation or acquired thereafter) shall also be suspended, pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1c for the same period.

JORDAN MERCER was also fined $2,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j.

If Mr. Mercer does not timely pay the fine, he and any horses owned by him will be automatically deemed not in good standing and will immediately

be suspended from competing or taking any part whatsoever in Licensed Competitions pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1.b, GR703.1.c, and GR703.1.f. Furthermore, if the fine is not resolved by July 1, 2024, in addition to the above referenced period of suspension, Mr. Mercer’s one-month suspension shall run in full beginning the day following payment of the fine.

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