Things to Consider for Students and Employers
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EQUIOXX IMPORTANT SAFETY
INFORMATION: As a class, nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs may be associated with gastrointestinal, hepatic and renal toxicity. Use with other NSAIDs, corticosteroids or nephrotoxic medication should be avoided.
LEGEND IMPORTANT SAFETY
INFORMATION: The following adverse reactions have been reported following intravenous injection: occasional depression, lethargy, and fever. Following intra-articular injection: lameness, joint effusion, joint or injection site swelling, and joint pain.
HYALOVET and HYVISC IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: A mild inflammatory response may occur post injection. For intra-articular injection in horses only. Do not use in horses intended for food. Caution: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.
SURPASS IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: SURPASS topical cream is only approved for use in horses and has not been evaluated in breeding, pregnant, or lactating horses, or in horses under 1 year of age. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
WATER BASED FORMULATION PLUS SILICONE
LASTING EFFECT WITH NO RESIDUE LEFT BEHIND
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Equestrian Magazine (ISSN 1548-873X) is published five times a year: Horse of the Year Special Edition, Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter, by the United States Equestrian Federation®, 4001 Wing Commander Way, Lexington, KY 40511; Phone: (859) 258-2472; Fax: (859) 231-6662. (ISSN:1548-873X). NOTE: Effective Spring issue of 2018, Equestrian magazine will be published and provided electronically and only four editions will have printed copies and be provided by U.S. Mail. The Winter issue will only be provided electronically. The Horse of the Year issue will be mailed only to competing members as of the date of publication and the year immediately prior to the date of publication. USEF is not responsible for the opinions and statements expressed in signed articles and paid advertisements. These opinions are not necessarily the opinions of USEF and its staff. While the Federation makes every effort to avoid errors, we assume no liability to anyone for mistakes or omissions. It is the policy of the Federation to report factually and accurately in Equestrian and to encourage and to publish corrections whenever warranted. Kindly direct any comments or inquiries regarding corrections to Glenye Cain Oakford goakford@usef.org or by direct dial 859-225-6941. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to US Equestrian, 4001 Wing Commander Way, Lexington, KY 40511. Canadian Publications Agreement No. 40845627. For Canadian returns, mail to Canada Express, 7686 #21 Kimble Street Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, L5S1E9. (905) 672-8100. Reproduction of any article, in whole or part, by written permission only of the Editor. Equestrian: Publisher, United States Equestrian Federation®, Chief Executive Officer, William J. Moroney (859) 225-6912. Director of Advertising, Kim Russell (859) 225-6938. Copyright © 20120 Equestrian is the official publication of the United States Equestrian Federation, the National Governing Body for Equestrian Sport in the USA, and is an official publication of USEF.
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After 30 years, Adequan® i.m. (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) is still the only FDA-Approved equine intramuscular PSGAG joint treatment available. And still the only one proven to:1, 2
Reduce inflammation
Restore synovial joint lubrication
Repair joint cartilage
Reverse the disease process
Adequan® i.m. actually treats degenerative joint disease, and not just the signs. Ask your veterinarian if Adequan® i.m. is the right choice for your horse. Learn more at adequan.com.
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BRIEF SUMMARY: Prior to use please consult the product insert, a summary of which follows: CAUTION: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. INDICATIONS: Adequan® i.m. is recommended for the intramuscular treatment of non-infectious degenerative and/or traumatic joint dysfunction and associated lameness of the carpal and hock joints in horses. CONTRAINDICATIONS: There are no known contraindications to the use of intramuscular Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan. WARNINGS: Do not use in horses intended for human consumption. Not for use in humans. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children. PRECAUTIONS: The safe use of Adequan® i.m. in horses used for breeding purposes, during pregnancy, or in lactating mares has not been evaluated. For customer care, or to obtain product information, visit www.adequan.com. To report an adverse event please contact American Regent, Inc. at 1-888-354-4857 or email pv@americanregent.com.
Please see Full Prescribing Information at www.adequan.com
1 Adequan® i.m. Package Insert, Rev 1/19.
2 Burba DJ, Collier MA, DeBault LE, Hanson-Painton O, Thompson HC, Holder CL: In vivo kinetic study on uptake and distribution of intramuscular tritium-labeled polysulfated glycosaminoglycan in equine body fluid compartments and articular cartilage in an osteochondral defect model. J Equine Vet Sci 1993; 13: 696-703.
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US Equestrian has long been committed to providing a safe, fair, and enjoyable environment for all equestrians to experience the many benefits of a life with horses, from lessons to competition to a pleasant hack through a field. We know that equestrians—whether they are amateur or professional, new or experienced— are lifelong learners dedicated to gathering more knowledge and doing what they can to make the equestrian life even better for all participants.
This issue’s stories amply demonstrate how safety, clear guidelines, and good communication all work together to ensure a safe and welcoming environment that allows participants to become better horsepeople, as well as better competitors, students, and trainers.
Safety is fundamental to fairness and enjoyment in any endeavor, including horse sports. To help us maintain the safe, welcoming communities that make equestrian sport attractive for newcomers, in this issue we’re launching a new department dedicated to athlete safety. In it, we’ll cover a range of topics, including general guidance and practical examples around the Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies, reminders about U.S. Center for SafeSport training requirements, and links to helpful resources for parents, trainers, and more. Penned by the USEF Safe Sport Department in response to questions and feedback they receive daily from members, the column’s debut piece in this issue highlights four potential pitfalls to avoid around athlete protection policies.
The importance of education, awareness, and policies which protect all equestrian participants, including our youngest ones, is echoed again in this issue in our cover feature about working-student programs. In this story, we talked to sources on both sides of the workingstudent equation to find out what students (and their parents) should expect from a working-student position and what trainers should consider before offering working-student positions in their programs.
Acclaimed trainer Andre Dignelli, a onetime working student who now has one of the most prestigious and sought-after programs in the hunter/jumper world, provides a great deal of insight on the topic and eloquently describes how transferring knowledge to new generations
doesn’t only create a legacy of teaching but also helps preserve equestrian sport’s future. Young equestrians Jordan Allen and Gabby Fournier, both veterans of working-student programs, offer advice for students on finding and making the most of these brilliant opportunities to develop horsemanship and enhance your equestrian career. Famed jumping athlete Armand Leone, now an attorney, gives some basic tips on things to consider, from having a basic memorandum of understanding between trainer and student, to exploring how worker’s compensation and insurance might apply.
Speaking of exploring new equestrian topics, have you gotten up to speed on your favorite equestrian breed or discipline now that show season is picking up steam? US Equestrian’s online Learning Center can help with that—and it also can introduce you to a new horse sport or breed, too. In this issue, our Learning Center department draws from the digital Learning Center’s vast library of online resources to help you get ready for one of the season’s most important sporting events: the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian, whose highlights include the Land Rover/USEF CCI5*-L Eventing National Championship, which awards the prestigious Roger Haller Trophy to the top-placed U.S. horse-and-rider combination. This exciting competition takes place April 27-30 in US Equestrian’s backyard here at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky.
If you’re coming to Kentucky for LRK3DE or any other competition, be sure to stop by US Equestrian’s new headquarters, where you can enjoy the equestrian display in our beautiful, light-filled lobby and shop for some of our US Equestrian branded merchandise, too. Spring is a perfect time to enjoy the horses and the equestrian community and to celebrate all the joys and benefits that this community brings us all.
Tom O’Mara President
The USEF Network is now powered by ClipMyHorse.TV. This new partnership, announced in December 2022, names CMH.TV as the Official USEF Network Partner. CMH.TV expands USEF Network’s reach and provides an improved viewer experience for USEF Network events, including the extensive USEF Learning Center library. We now offer a new search function that enables viewers to search for content, and find events, horses, riders, and clipped rides.
USEF competing members, subscribers, and fans continue to have free access to all USEF Network live events annually. USEF competing members and subscribers enjoy the added benefit of access to the USEF Network’s on-demand content.
CMH.TV also is offering an exclusive 10% discount to all USEF competing members, subscribers, and USEF fans on annual CMH.TV premium subscriptions. Existing CMH.TV premium subscribers worldwide will now have full access to USEF Network content, which will also be available on the CMH.TV mobile app. The USEF Network will continue to offer a robust schedule of competitions, such as the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian, the Devon Horse Show, and numerous USEF championships.
This strategic partnership is part of US Equestrian’s multifaceted strategy to increase the visibility and reach of U.S. equestrian sport, to diversify and grow revenue, and to keep costs down for members. While US Equestrian has successfully grown the USEF Network to 50+ events with an audience of over 447,000 competing members, subscribers, and USEF fans, our goal is to showcase our events to a global equestrian audience through ClipMyHorse.TV and to engage mainstream sport fans through channels such as ESPN and NBC. Social media and
original video content will continue to fuel US Equestrian audience growth as well. With more than 1.2 million followers across US Equestrian’s Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter accounts and more than 250,000 followers on TikTok, U.S. equestrian sport is fast proving its broad audience appeal across multiple digital platforms.
For USEF Network powered by ClipMyHorse.TV log on information, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page at usef.org/faqs/usef-network. For programming details, visit usef.org/network
April 1 CSI5* WEF 12 $500,000 Rolex Grand Prix
April 18-21 Big D Charity Horse Show
April 26-30 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event
April 28-29 Kentucky CSI3* Invitational Grand Prix
May 24, - June 3 The Devon Horse Show & Country Fair
June 15-18 Perrigo CPEDI3* - Tryon
June 26 - July 1 Adequan/USEF Junior Hunter National Championships - East
July 10-15 USEF Saddle Seat Adult Amateur Medal Final
July 22-25 USEF Junior Hunter National Championships - West
August 8-13 USEF Pony Finals presented by Honor Hill Farm
August 8-13 FEI North American Youth Championships
August 18-20 USEF/AVA Vaulting National Championship
August 21-27 U.S. Dressage Festival of Champions and Para Dressage National Championships
For a complete programming schedule visit usef.org/ network/broadcast-schedule . Dates and events are subject to change.
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The Emerson Burr Horsemanship Grant has a new round of its popular competitions planned for 10 United States Hunter Jumper Association Zones in 2023. The Emerson Burr Competitions, hosted at shows throughout the country, offer chances for young pony riders to win $100 or $500 grants toward education- or equestrian-related expenses.
In these competitions, juniors in four age groups take a written multiple-choice exam and potentially also must answer a short essay question. A $100 grant is awarded to the winner in each group, based on the test results and, where applicable, the short essay. Winners at Zone level are eligible for the national test, a two-phase competition—consisting of a written test and a hands-on test—at the 2023 USEF Pony Finals presented by Honor Hill Farms. Winners at the national level receive $500 grants.
The 2023 Zone Competition includes the following:
Zone 1 Fieldstone Show Park June Week 2, June 21-25, Halifax, Mass.
Zone 2 Blue Rock at Swan Lake Stables, May 17-21, Littlestown, Pa.
Zone 3 Tryon Summer 4, July 4-9, Mill Spring, N.C.
Zone 4 Aiken Spring Classic Finale, April 26-30, Aiken, S.C.
Zone 5 Split Rock Hunter Jumper Classic II, June 13-18, Lexington, Ky.
Zone 6 Two Rivers Summer Festival I, Aug. 2-6, Cumming, Iowa
Zone 7 St. Louis National Charity Show, Sept. 13-17, St. Louis, Mo.
Zone 8 Autumn in the Rockies I, Sept. 6-10, Parker, Colo.
Zone 9 Oregon Summer Show, Aug. 23-27, Wilsonville, Ore.
Zone 10 Blenheim June Classic III, June 28-July 2, San Juan Capistrano, Calif.
National USEF Pony Finals presented by Honor Hill Farms, Aug. 8 -13, Lexington, Ky.
US Equestrian is now accepting applications for the 2023 Higher Education Equestrian Scholarship. This program provides five $1,000 scholarships to graduating high school seniors who are committed to furthering their equestrian skills and knowledge while in college.
Applicants must have a current competing or subscriber membership with US Equestrian and be a graduating high school senior preparing to enter their freshman year of college in fall of 2023. The scholarship is available to equestrians from any of the 28 US Equestrian-affiliated breeds or disciplines.
Applicants must provide proof of continuing involvement in equestrian sports through college. Enrollment in equine-related classes or participation in an intercollegiate equestrian team or club will serve as proof but are not required. Applicants may hold an equestrian-related internship, job, or volunteer position, or provide evidence of other commitment to continued involvement in equestrian sport.
Funds awarded by the Higher Education Equestrian Scholarship will be issued directly to the recipients’ educational institutions to be applied to tuition costs.
Applicants must submit a completed application form, an essay, and at least one reference from an individual in the horse industry on or before July 31, 2023, to be considered for the scholarship.
Applications can be downloaded at usef.org. Completed applications must be emailed to Emily McSweeney, National Breeds and Disciplines Special Projects Manager, at emcsweeney@usef.org on or before July 31, 2023. Scholarship recipients will be announced on September 15, 2023.
his capture of five U.S. National Championships on as many different horses. Competing internationally for close to 30 years in eventing, over 20 of those at the Advanced level, he was also an avid foxhunter and steeplechase jockey during the height of his career.
He transitioned to coaching after retiring in 1986. His students were selected to countless U.S. Olympic, World Championship, and Pan American teams since 1978. As a testament to his results as a coach and mentor he was named United States Olympic Committee’s Development Coach of the Year in both 1998 and 1999.
All four members of the U.S. bronze medal team at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, as well as the individual gold medal winner, were graduates of Wofford’s program. Three of the members of the 2002 gold medal team at the World Equestrian Games also were his former students. He coached the Canadian team for the 2002 World Championships, the silver medal team at 2003 Pan American Games, and the 2004 Athens Olympic Games.
Olympic medalist and coach Jimmy Wofford, a legend in the sport of three-day eventing and a past president of the American Horse Shows Association, died February 2, 2023, at the age of 78.
Wofford had a profound influence on equestrian sport as we know it today. He was a complete horseman, focused and skilled competitor, and a “teacher’s teacher” who will be remembered for his humor, charm, and wit.
Wofford was born into an equestrian family on November 3, 1944, in Junction City, Kan. His father, Col. John W. Wofford, competed for the U.S. Jumping Team at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympic Games, was a founding member of the U.S. Equestrian Team, and continued to coach and mentor athletes in eventing and show jumping at the 1952 Helsinki Olympic Games. Surrounded by equestrians, with both brothers Jeb and Warren riding internationally for the U.S., Wofford grew up immersed in the sport. He first represented the U.S. Eventing Team in 1965 and continued to compete internationally for the program through 1985, training with American coaching legends, Bert de Nemethy and Jack Le Goff. He was a graduate of Culver Military Academy and the School of Business at the University of Colorado.
Wofford had a brilliant career for the United States, earning two team silvers in the 1968 Mexico City and 1972 Munich Olympic Games aboard Kilkenny, and was selected to represent the team in 1980 before the games were boycotted. He medaled twice at the World Eventing Championships: once aboard Kilkenny at Punchestown in 1970, where they earned individual bronze, and again in 1978 here in the U.S. aboard Carawich, earning team bronze. He also was a member of the gold-medal winning team at the 1967 Pan American Games in Winnipeg.
Two wins at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, once in 1981 and again in 1986, after Wofford came out of retirement, will be remembered fondly by the eventing community, alongside
Wofford was inducted into the United States Eventing Association’s Hall of Fame in 2003 and was also inducted into the Culver Academies Horsemanship Hall of Fame. He received the prestigious USEF Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012.
He maintained a lifelong involvement in governance of equestrian sport, serving as President of the American Horse Shows Association, First Vice-President of the United States Equestrian Team, Secretary of the United States Combined Training Association, and a two-term member of the FEI Eventing Committee, including two years as Vice-Chairman.
Wofford was a pivotal figure in shaping the USEF as the organization evolved from, in his words, “an assembly of competitions to an association of individuals.” He played a leading role in the adoption of, and provided unwavering support for, the Federation’s Drugs and Medication Rules. He also was key to bringing the national and international disciplines of the sport together to form a collaborative, united front for equestrian sport in the United States.
Wofford is survived by his wife of more than 56 years, Gail Wofford; his two daughters, Hilary and Jennifer; sons-in-law, Tim Jones and Charles Ince; and four grandchildren, Walker, Hudson, Lewis, and Theo.
“Jimmy is a legend among legends. His competitive career is only surpassed by his involvement in the sport. He shaped many of our lives, both in the competition ring and in our personal lives, that will guarantee that his legacy will go on forever as we all try and pass on what he showed us to be a good competitor and a good citizen,” said David O’Connor, USEF Chief of Sport, former USEF President, and Olympic gold medalist.
In lieu of flowers, contributions would be appreciated to the Piedmont Fox Hounds Conservation Fund, c/o Box 592, Upperville, Va., 20185, or to the National Sporting Library, 102 The Plains Road, Middleburg, Va., 20117.
- Para dressage athlete Bea de Lavalette after her individual win on Sixth Sense in the Adequan ® Global Dressage Festival Week 3 CPEDI3* in Wellington, Fla., in January.
Above: Carolyn Hardaway and American Saddlebred Bi Mi Southern Kiss competing in the Ranch division at the 2022 St. Louis National Charity Horse Show.
Left: Maryn Geck and her mount Liberty L in conversation with dressage clinician Katherine Bateson-Chandler at the 2023 Robert Dover Horsemastership Clinic Week in Wellington, Fla., in January.
Opposite (top): Rider Natalie Kizzier, accompanied by trainer Suzanne Habarek, expresses her delight after winning the Hunter Pleasure Youth World Championship with TTMF Tomodachi at the Morgan Grand National Horse Show.
“T he tougher the judges are, the more I work on something and improve it, so I don’t mind that.”PHOTOS: LESLIE POTTER/US EQUESTRIAN TETLEYPHOTO.COM PHOTOS: HOWARD SCHATZBERG, LESLIE POTTER/US EQUESTRIAN, JUMP MEDIA, TAYLOR PENCEPHOTOGRAPHY
- Murray Bruce, an autistic participant in an equine therapeutic program, in the recent documentary “Inside Our Autustic Minds”
“Horses breathe understanding into the air, and it fills me with warmth and immunity against ignorance.”
Situations may arise in daily equestrian life that raise the risk of running afoul of the USEF Safe Sport Policy or the Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies. It’s important to be aware of these common pitfalls to ensure you’re abiding by safeguarding policies and taking appropriate strides to keep our young athletes safe.
Social media is often a place where people may make comments or say things that they would not normally say in everyday life. It is also a place where the comments can be viewed widely, including by the person whom the comment is about—even if that person isn’t included in the post or comments. You should be conscious of and cautious about what you’re posting to social media and how it may make somebody feel. It is safer to assume that the subject of your comment(s) will see the post, even if they are not included on the post or the post is made to another individual’s page. Even when your individual comment is seemingly innocuous, it may not be perceived that way by the subject of the comment. Your comment may also be another element of “piling on” to that person, if there is a series of negative comments about an individual. Cyberbullying, harassment, and other similar misconduct are prohibited under the USEF Safe Sport Policy and the Code of Conduct. Engaging in behavior on social media that could be perceived as derogatory towards another individual may result in disciplinary action.
With limited exceptions, all one-on-one electronic communications between an adult participant and a minor athlete must be “open and transparent.” This requires an adult participant to include another adult or parent/guardian on any electronic communication (i.e., text, direct messages, telephone call, etc.) with a minor athlete.
Adult participants may unwittingly violate this provision of the MAAP Policies, so it is important to be aware of these scenarios that could easily arise but which would require including a second adult participant or parent/guardian:
• Minor rider texts their trainer to ask what time their lesson is that day. Trainer would need to include parent/guardian or another adult participant on the response.
by the USEF Safe Sport Department
• At a competition, a trainer needs to locate a minor rider to help prepare for an upcoming class. If the trainer is going to call the minor rider’s phone, they would need to have another adult participant present on the phone call. This could be accomplished by having another adult standing next to the trainer while the call is made using speaker phone.
With limited exceptions, an adult participant cannot transport a minor athlete one-on-one during in-program travel. Similarly, an adult participant cannot share a hotel room or otherwise sleep in the same room with a minor athlete or athletes. Recognizing the unique situations faced in training and competing in equestrian sport, such as a trainer traveling with a student for a competition when a parent is unable to do so, USEF has set out strict parameters to permit these scenarios while remaining compliant with the MAAP Policies. Before engaging in any sort of travel or lodging involving minor athletes, be sure to consult the MAAP Policies and make sure you have taken the appropriate steps to comply with the prohibitions or limited exceptions.
For transportation, one of the available exceptions permits the minor athlete’s parent/guardian to provide advance, written consent to transport the minor athlete one-on-one. This advance, written consent must be obtained at least annually, and the parent/guardian may withdraw their consent at any time.
For hotel rooms and other sleeping arrangements, one of the available exceptions requires a dual relationship to exist and for the parent/guardian of the minor athlete to provide advance, written consent for the lodging arrangement if the
adult participant and minor athlete will be sleeping in the same room. Another potential issue exists when an adult participant will be performing “room checks” or otherwise monitoring minor athletes during in-program lodging. In this situation, the adult participant must make sure to avoid one-on-one interactions and must have a second adult present for the room check.
USEF requires all senior active (competing) members, along with many other specified individuals, to undergo annual SafeSport training. This includes the SafeSport Trained Core course every four years and the refresher course in the other three years. Training lasts for 365 days and must be renewed prior to expiration. If your SafeSport training expires, you will not be permitted to compete or participate in any USEF-licensed competitions in any capacity other than as a spectator.
Make sure to be aware of when your training will expire and make sure to renew before the expiration date. It’s a good practice to double-check that your SafeSport training will not expire prior to the end of any competitions for which you are registering. You can find the date of expiration on your USEF member dashboard and on your USEF membership card. You also will receive reminder emails to the email address you have on file with your USEF membership. These reminder emails are a courtesy; it remains your responsibility to ensure you are up to date on your training.
USEF requires all senior competing members, along with many other specified individuals, to undergo annual SafeSport training. It’s important to know your training’s expiration date: if your training expires, you will not be permitted to compete or participate in USEF-licensed competitions in any capacity other than as a spectator.
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US Equestrian’s online Learning Center can help you prep for the April 27-30 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian, whether you’ll be there in person or watching the live stream from home.
Are you ready for the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian? Billed as the Best Weekend All Year, the world-class event offers the featured CCI5*-L eventing competition, one of only seven CCI5*-L events in the world. But attendees also can enjoy the Cosequin® CCI4*-S competition and the $225,000 Kentucky CSI3* Invitational Grand Prix jumping competition presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. It all takes place April 27-30 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky., just a quick hack or hand-walk from US Equestrian’s headquarters.
The two aren’t only in close geographic proximity; they have a deep connection, starting with the Land Rover/USEF CCI5*-L Eventing National Championship presented by MARS Equestrian, which awards the prestigious Roger Haller Trophy to the top-placed U.S. horse-and-rider combination. Last year’s winners were Olympic eventing athlete Doug Payne and his mount Quantum Leap, owned by Payne and his wife Jessica.
USEF subscribing members can stream the LRK3DE live on USEF Network powered by ClipMyHorse.TV. Whether you’re a fan, subscriber, or competing member, you can gear up for this year’s championship event now with a bevy of resources in US Equestrian’s online Learning Center at usef.org/learn.
Learn about the thrilling sport of eventing and its three phases—dressage, cross-country, and jumping. Start with our primer, “Eventing for All,” online at issuu.com/equestrian/docs/ spring_22/68. Visit US Equestrian’s affiliate eventing organization, the United States Eventing Association, at useventing.com to find out more. Then check out usef.org/learn, where you’ll find a host of resources about the sport and its phases.
LRK3DE’s opening phase is dressage, which takes place during the competition’s first two days. Need some pointers to understand what the judges are looking for? Check out these Learning Center dressage videos to get insights into this beautiful, technical discipline:
• Straightness Exercises with Adrienne Lyle
• Tips for Riding a Perfect Centerline with Kasey Perry-Glass
• Tips for a Successful Shoulder-In with Laura Graves
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The weekend’s competition also offers the Cosequin® CCI4*-S eventing competition and the $225,000 Kentucky CSI3* Invitational Grand Prix jumping competition presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute.
Land Rover returns in 2023 as title sponsor for the CCI5*-L, one of only seven CCI5*-L events globally. The testing field includes veteran horses and riders, as well as upand-coming stars like Woods Baughman and C’est La Vie 135, who competed for the first time in 2022.
Cross-country is eventing’s signature element. This heart-pumping phase tests horse and rider’s partnership, skill, and stamina over a series of jumps placed in natural terrain, which they must navigate without faults and within an optimum time. Get prepared with
• Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event Cross-Country Course with longtime course-builder Mick Costello
• Walking a Cross-Country Course with Phillip Dutton
• Intro to Cross-Country Riding with David O’Connor and Lauren Nicholson
• Cross-Country Schooling Exercises with Boyd Martin
• Intro to Three-Day Eventing’s Vet Box with Max Corcoran and Dr. Susan Johns
LRK3DE’s final phase brings horse and rider into the stadium for a show jumping test over a technical course of delicate fences. A single fault can make a big difference between hoisting a trophy and going home empty-handed. Find out more about what goes into this discipline and developing the technical precision it demands with
• How to Walk a Show Jumping Course with McLain Ward
• Practice Finding a Distance with Anne Kursinski
• Gaining Control After the Fence with Beezie Madden
• Finding a Consistent Distance with Kimberly Prince
Planning to attend LRK3DE in person? Title sponsor Land Rover will be featuring their own motorized cross-country star, the iconic Defender, throughout the park and will also host their popular Ultimate Stable. The overall winner of the CCI5-L* on Sunday will also drive off with a one-year Land Rover Defender vehicle lease. LRK3DE is a dog-friendly event. Give your hound the VIP treatment with the MARS Equestrian V.I. Pet experience. It will be located at the main intersection of Nina Bonnie Blvd. and Rolex Way in the Kentucky Horse Park. While you’re in the area, be sure to treat your horse and yourself, too: MARS Equestrian also will offer spectators two additional experiences with their Horsecare brands and premium chocolate brands. Look out for SmartPak’s great on-site activities, too, with course walks, autograph sessions with athletes, and more.
For more details about these special activities and to keep up with the competition, schedule updates, original content pieces, leading and winning rides, and more, stay tuned to our social accounts. Follow US Equestrian, USA Eventing, and USEF Network on Facebook and Instagram; US Equestrian and USEF Network on Twitter; and US Equestrian on TikTok and YouTube.
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“I had to gain confidence in myself in order to show and to have the confidence of my horses,” writes Alexa Rahman, shown here on her horse Indian Creek Nathan Hale GCH after winning the American Morgan Horse Association Hunt Seat Medal at the 2019 New England Morgan Horse Show.
I started riding when I was three. It was a birthday present, and the barn near my house just happened to be a Morgan barn. I’ve been riding Morgans ever since, although I hope to also show some Saddlebreds this year.
I think my favorite thing about Morgans is their personalities. They’re all so different, which keeps things extremely interesting. I also love how versatile they are. I’ve seen Morgans do a lot of different things, from show jumping to roping, and they’re usually pretty good at all of them. That’s always impressed me, and it’s fun getting to explore all their abilities and talents, especially with one of my horses, Nate, who is here in Ithaca with me. His show name is Indian Creek Nathan Hale. Before I got him, he was a driving horse and then a hunter. We showed extensively in hunt seat equitation. But he didn’t love showing, so I gave him a little break for a while so he could just live outside and do some trail riding and fun stuff. Now we’re going to try dressage!
I have a lot of different interests that I like to explore, too. I’ve been told a lot of times that I can’t pursue my other interests if I want to be a horse trainer, which is definitely frustrating. I always think, “Yes, I can. Watch me do it.” I’ve been trying to find a bridge between my interests, which include music and law and also diversity, equity, and inclusion. And I have been able to find bridges so far, especially in terms of bringing diversity, equity, and inclusion work into all of my interests.
Being around horses has taught me so many important skills, the most important being confidence. When I was younger, I was really, really shy—like, I did not talk in class at all.
Having to communicate with my trainers and other competitors and with my horse, too, meant I really had to learn to speak up. I had to gain confidence in myself in order to show and to have the confidence of my horses.
Another thing horses have taught me is responsibility. I always had to have that sense of responsibility, because I had to and wanted to take care of the horses.
Life with horses has taught me a lot about sportsmanship, as well. And it’s given me so many lifelong friendships. Over the years, through horses I’ve met people from all over the country whom I’ve built friendships with, formed concrete partnerships with, and made connections that will last a lifetime.
Zen Elite Equestrian Center, located in Southwest Ranches, Florida is everything the name suggests and much more. The state-of-the-art facility hosts a spacious covered arena, two huge outdoor arenas and a full rehab/spa. From the cascading waterfalls in the rider’s lounge, to its peaceful statues and inviting gardens, Zen Elite Equestrian Center envelops visitors in a spa-like relaxed atmosphere. But Zen Elite is more than just soothing to the soul. The facility is unique in its scope, hosting grassroots dressage and jumping lesson programs in the same arenas where international trainers are preparing for national and world competitions.
Owner, Heidi Humphries’ vision is legendary, in that it supports the future of horse sport in the spa-like serene atmosphere that is Zen Elite Equestrian Center.
As I’ve gotten older, the fact that I am a Black woman started to play more of a role in my equestrian life, especially as I became more confident and outspoken. It definitely has affected some of my relationships within the horse industry, because I have different opinions from a lot of other people. When I’ve been outspoken about certain things, some people definitely have moved away from that conversation. But I do think it’s an important conversation to have.
I think it’s important for the broader equestrian community to understand that the sport can be isolating at times. While we obviously all share the interest in and love for horses, we don’t share each other’s identities, and sometimes that can be really difficult. There are certain struggles we go through just based on how we look or where we’re from, being seen as a lot different from others and sometimes judged differently, too. It can affect a lot of things in our lives, and sometimes there isn’t anyone to talk to.
That lack of a larger community in the horse world has been difficult for me, because there are a lot of things that some people just can’t understand. But I have found quite a few people who also are very supportive personally and who support diversity, equity, and inclusion. All of this has helped me figure out who I can trust and who my supporters are. To people who want to be allies, I would say that I’d rather have people reach out to me and ask, “How can I help? How are you doing?” than to just ignore a situation or take some action without asking first. I think it’s helpful to say, “I’m here. How can I help? What can I do to be a better ally and to uplift this community?”
But being an ally is just the first step. The ultimate goal should be to be a true “co-conspirator”: someone who has looked inside themselves and recognized their biases, has gone through the education to overcome these biases, and has done a true deep dive into the work of diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects and is actively working to uplift historically oppressed communities.
I’ve found quite a few allies, and even some co-conspirators, especially here in my area in upstate New York. And I’ve found support within the Black community, as well, from people I’ve met from different parts of the country that I know I can reach out to if I ever need to ask a question, need advice, or just want to chat with.
After a long year of getting in a lot of arguments and focusing on oppression of marginalized communities, I realized that that is just absolutely exhausting and that it’s more beneficial to focus on the liberation of those communities. I’ve been doing this quite a bit at my college, hosting community events, creating safe and inclusive spaces for marginalized communities to gather, and uplifting marginalized communities. Now it’s time for me to start doing this in the horse world, as well.
I believe equestrians can build a more inclusive community. Personally, I’m really hoping to build some kind of committee, at least within the Morgan world, that focuses on diversity, so we can start to foster that community a little bit more. I’d love to help create better scholarships in the sport for diversity, equity, and inclusion and potentially some awards for people in those marginalized communities and for their allies.
To me, a real equestrian is someone who loves horses, who is engaged with them in some way. It doesn’t have to be riding. I know people who drive or have horses that other people ride. But they are engaged with horses. To me, that’s really what an equestrian is.
To the young Black girl who is thinking, “Oh, I love horses, and I want to ride,” I would say, “Definitely do it!” It can be tough to find your place, but find the people you can trust and talk to. That’s one of my goals: to foster a sense of community. And I hope other people will want to join that, as well.
US Equestrian is pleased to announce the five recipients of the USEF Higher Education Equestrian Scholarships for graduating high-school seniors. Each $1,000 grant is to be used towards education expenses at the recipient’s college or university. USEF created the scholarship to support students who are committed to continuing their involvement in equestrian sport while in college through an equestrian-related degree, volunteerism, or internship; riding on an intercollege equestrian team; or another equestrian-related activity.
The five recipients are as follows:
Kendall Austin of Virginia Beach, Va., attends Texas A&M University this fall and will major in biology and chemistry with the aim of medical or veterinary school in the future. She began competing in horse shows at age six and has earned top results in hunter pony and junior hunter divisions at A-circuit hunter jumper shows. Austin overcame a childhood illness with the help of horses, and she will now continue her riding career on Texas A&M’s National Collegiate Equestrian Association team.
Learn more about the hunter discipline by visiting our recognized affiliate, the United States Hunter Jumper Association, at ushja.org
Augusta Rose Lewis of Longmont, Colo., attends Colorado State University, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science as an honors student in the Equine Science department. She began vaulting at age eight. Lewis has been to two FEI Vaulting World Championships for Juniors, as a squad alternate in 2019 and as a member of the silver medal-winning squad in 2021. She is interested in the business and science side of the horse industry and hopes to combine her passions to contribute to equestrian sport.
Learn more about the vaulting discipline by visiting our recognized affiliate, the American Vaulting Association, at americanvaulting.org
We’re measured by what we accomplish and remembered by what we pass on.
In life, hard work and determination yield rewards and glory. But it’s by ensuring the success of future generations that a legacy is truly built.
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$10 MILLION MARKETABLE SECURITIES AND/OR LIQUID ASSETS REQUIRED. Investment and Wealth Management Services are provided by Whittier Trust Company and The Whittier Trust Company of Nevada, Inc. (referred to herein individually and collectively as “Whittier Trust”), state-chartered trust companies wholly owned by Whittier Holdings, Inc. (“WHI”), a closely held holding company. This document is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended, and should not be construed, as investment, tax or legal advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results and no investment or financial planning strategy can guarantee profit or protection against losses. All names, characters, and incidents, except for certain incidental references, are fictitious. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.
Ian McFarlin of Canton, Ga., attends the University of Florida and is pursuing a mechanical engineering/preveterinary degree while riding on the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association team. Despite only starting his riding journey five years ago, McFarlin has found much success in the show ring, winning the Varsity Open Equitation on the Flat at the 2022 Interscholastic Equestrian Association National Finals. He has volunteered at an equine veterinary hospital and therapeutic riding center and hopes to combine his passions into a career creating “assistive and rehabilitative medical devices for horses and their riders.”
Learn more about the hunter discipline by visiting our recognized affiliate, the United States Hunter Jumper Association, at ushja.org
Christina Spiliotis of Centennial, Colo., is a University of Kentucky student majoring in equine science and management. She first rode at age four and has competed in various aspects of equestrian sport, including Western pleasure and hunt seat classes at American Saddlebred shows. Spiliotis was diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of 12 with a trigger of in-depth reading, causing her to adjust her learning style with the help of audio textbooks and voice-to-text.
Learn more about the American Saddlebred by visiting our recognized affiliate, the American Saddlebred Horse and Breeders Association, at asha.net
Clara Jean Thompson of Cornersville, Tenn., attends Clemson University and is studying pre-professional health studies. Thompson began riding seriously at age 15, when a trail ride led to an interest in horses and a summer job at a horse farm. She has received top results in a short time, ranging from top-three finishes at the Tennessee Central Region and State 4-H Horse Shows and 4-H Extension horse show judging, and top-10 finishes at the Junior North American Field Hunter Championship. Thompson will continue riding horses while in college as she starts her journey to become a pediatric general surgeon.
Learn more about the USEF Education Equestrian Scholarship, including eligibility and how to apply, at usef.org or contact Emily McSweeney at emcsweeney@usef.org. The application deadline is July 31.
This is a spectacular rural retreat of 996 acres located only 5 minutes from town, restaurants, shopping, interstate, etc. The fabulous, custom built home rests on a hill with 1,000' elevation overlooking a 22 acre lake & the Crowe Valley of Silver Creek. Douglas Fir beams, handmade doors, imported stone from East India, commercial grade kitchen, custom made mantel and chandeliers, geo-thermal heating and cooling, 4 car garage and extraordinary veranda with grill, firepit and unbelievable views. The farm sports 4 additional homes including a 5,000 sf circa 1850 house, office, 10 barns, miles of 4-rail steel pipe fencing, miles of 6'' water line, miles of paved roads and many more miles of gravel roads, multiple alfalfa fields, automatic waterers, and miles of beautiful frontage on Silver Creek, including a waterfall. Up to 1,750 acres of land in total available.
$16,988,000
A gorgeous 45 acre farm with 18 stalls in two barns, with a charming older house, 1 year old barn apartment, located only 2 miles from Midway and less than 8 miles from the Kentucky Horse Park. The land lays nearly level with a very gentle roll and excellent soils. The main house has been redone and is currently used as a profitable AirBNB. The circa 1900 Brick house features hardwood floors, high ceilings, lots of updates, and an unfinished room with vaulted ceilings on the second floor. The farm is nicely horse improved and has a wonderful history of producing top race horses such as Favorite Trick (G1). The front barn has 7 stalls, updated electric and a new roof. The back barn has 11 stalls, a lovely apartment, wash stall, and storage. The property has road frontage on two roads and could easily be divided.
$1,550,000
17 acres of prime land in the heart of Horse this farm sports a brick, ranch house, 36' x 24' barn, 16' x 10' shed, great soils, & super location on Bourbon/Fayette County line (Lexington address but you only have to pay Bourbon County taxes!) The house has an open kitchen to a great room floor plan, large mud/laundry room, 2 car garage, & a deck to take in the great views. The location is 1 mile from iconic Windy Corner Restaurant, 17 miles from the Kentucky Horse Park or shopping at Hamburg (including Costco), 20 minutes to the corner of Main & Broadway in Lexington, & 24 minutes to Keeneland or the Lexington airport.
$768,000
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Working students are a time-honored tradition in equestrian sport, and it’s easy to see why they’ve remained popular over the years. Ideally, the seasoned equestrian who hires a working student gets an energetic, enthusiastic worker who can help with a variety of duties, from mucking out to riding and training horses to office tasks, while the student gets a ground-up education in what it takes to run an equine operation, including important hands-on experience and the chance to ride, show, and make valuable contacts.
For hunter/jumper trainer Andre Dignelli, who owns Heritage Farm in Katonah, N.Y., with his brother Michael, establishing a strong working student program was key to building a professional legacy. The Heritage Development Program, Dignelli says, is a way to give back to the sport he loves by helping train the next generation of horsemen and horsewomen who will carry equestrian sport into the future.
“I have a place in my heart for those workers, because I think they are future champions, future professionals,” he said.
Dignelli also believes programs like his are a golden opportunity for students, as he learned from his tenure as a working student for renowned hunter/jumper rider and trainer Judy Richter.
“There are people out there to kind of lend you a hand, and when that happens, what looks impossible at first can become possible if you put yourself out there, work hard, and appreciate it,” Dignelli said. “Then people gravitate toward you and good things happen.
“I basically have given these kids this platform where their first job often is at Heritage. After they are done with the juniors, they often spend a year or so with me, and it’s their first job. They find their next job, and their way, and sometimes they come back. Or they call me and say, ‘I’ve got an opportunity, what do you think?’ That mentorship and friendship are there,
Working student positions can benefit both employer and worker, but it’s important for each to understand what’s involved to optimize the situation for both parties.
and that’s how the program has evolved. It’s all encompassing, so that these people actually have a way of making it.”
Such opportunities aren’t lost on Jordan Allen. A working student at Kentucky-based Ashland Farms for the past six years, Allen has flourished. She has seen her role grow and has shown—and won with— Ashland Farms horses in some of hunt seat equitation’s most prestigious competitions. Allen rates the horsemanship and riding education she’s gained from Ashland Farms’ working student program very highly but notes that the program has given her even more than skills with horses.
“I think the most valuable thing it teaches you is great people skills,” she said of the working student experience. “I’ve met so many people and it’s opened so many doors. People want to give you opportunities with horses when they see you work hard.”
“You gain so much exposure,” agreed Gabby Fournier, who got her first working student job at age 12 with trainer Lindsey Knight at Halcyon Show Stables and is now Head of Marketing and Communiations for Arion - Sport Horse Tack. “I was able to travel and go meet new people, ride new horses, and stand in warm-up rings and listen to different trainers. That’s amazing, and you learn so much.”
Working students clearly can be a win-win for both employer and worker. But what should each party know before embarking on a working student relationship in order to make the situation work well for both?
If you’re thinking about hiring a working student, start by consulting your lawyer about any federal or state laws that might apply. For example, if you’re hiring a minor, child labor laws are likely going to apply, including how many hours the student can work. You’ll also want to understand whether minimum-wage laws will apply to your proposed arrangement, and if you are hiring interns, you’ll want to understand laws around paying them.
“It’s important to get a good overview of your legal obligations,” said employment attorney Jeremiah Reece of the Louisville, Ky., firm Reece Saiyed Parry-Johnson. “And it’s advisable to get an attorney in your state that has experience with and knowledge of labor laws to examine that, because while there are basic federal requirements, state laws can be more restrictive than federal law.”
Some states, like California, also have additional permits or license requirements for businesses employing minors.
Reece recommends consulting with an attorney on these issues annually or every two years to make sure you’re in compliance with current law. “You need to check the law regularly, because it does change,” he said.
Reece also suggests looking at any insurance or worker’s compensation implications a working student program might have for your business.
“There are at least 16 states that offer some sort of exemption from worker’s compensation requirements at farm or agricultural labor,” Reece noted, so employers will want to determine
“I HAVE A PLACE IN MY HEART FOR THOSE WORKERS, BECAUSE I THINK THEY ARE FUTURE CHAMPIONS, FUTURE PROFESSIONALS.”
–Andre Dignelli
Left: You’ve got to be willing to do the work,” says Andre Dignelli, owner/trainer at Heritage Farm in Katonah, N.Y. “No job is too big or too small. The students are watching and learning how to be a successful horseman by standing alongside them and realizing that it’s not just about getting a leg up on that horse.”
Above: The chance to work closely with horses—in and out of the saddle—contributes to a working student’s education, from best practices in horse care to how a successful equine business runs.
whether their operation is considered agricultural in their state.”
There are many online resources that can help, including:
Department of Labor (dol.gov)
State Labor Cabinets or Departments
Industry associations
Equine law firms
Educational institutions with specialized programs on equine or agricultural law, such as the University of Kentucky’s Equine Law Society and Iowa State University’s Center for Agricultural Law and Taxation
It’s also a good idea to be sure your SafeSport training is up to date and that you have familiarized yourself with the USEF Safe Sport Policy and Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies.
Before you embark on a working student experience, get prepared by talking to others who have been working students, and ask around about stables you think might suit you—both in terms of your equestrian goals and in terms of atmosphere. You also can check USEF’s online
Ineligibility List to see whether a trainer is overdue on their SafeSport training or has another current violation. The USEF website also has a Safe Sport hub that features resources for owners, trainers, competitors, and parents.
“The minute you go into a working student relationship, you do have a setup where there’s an imbalance of power,” said jumping athlete Armand Leone, who is now an attorney and also rides and trains at his family’s Ri-Arm Farm in Oakland, N.J. “There’s an imbalance both from the point of view of employer/employee, but also the employer or the person who owns the farm: if they have horses, they have emotional leverage over the student, because the reward of being able to ride a horse is significant. And then the reward to be able to ride certain horses can be even more rewarding. People need to be aware going in that it certainly is a situation where issues can arise if the working student, the employer, and everyone is not aware of some of the SafeSport training. Because SafeSport training makes people aware of things that they in the past would not have noticed in their own conduct. So I would say that SafeSport certification by
the employer and the working student, if they’re 18 or over, is important. Everybody needs to know the rules.”
Reece suggests that working students or their parents also look into any potential insurance implications, especially if the stable is not required to carry worker’s compensation that might offset medical bills due to job-related injury.
Once you’ve found a position, there are a number of things to know before you start. First, be clear on what the position entails. Leone recommends that employer and working student consider drafting an outline of basic duties, in order to avoid future misunderstandings.
“I think that’s important to have an understanding, at least in principle, of the duties and to put some boundaries on what the tasks entail,” Leone said. “You come with certain expectations,
“Make sure that you’re comfortable doing any and all jobs, because that’s pretty much what the job is,” Dignelli said. Learn and do as much as you can.
“Insert yourself in everything you can,” Allen said. “I started off doing everything. I’d clean stalls, I’d clean tack, I’d hold horses for the farrier. You learn from everything, and not that you ever stop doing any of that, but you can work your way up. Your role can become a bit more managerial the longer you do it.
“And help the grooms whenever you can, because they work so hard. Honestly, I think a lot of our job is alleviating some of their stress.”
you’re showing at the top level in these equitation classes, when you do so much with these horses, you really do form a relationship with them,” Allen said. “All that time you spend with them is invaluable.”
“Positive attitude and the character of a working student is much more valuable than the talent, in my opinion,” said Fournier. “So don’t let your ego get in the way of anything that you’re doing. You know, if they tell you to go wrap polos for three hours, definitely do it and do it to the best of your ability. Have a lot of pride and confidence in your work. Any opportunity is a good opportunity.”
the employer has certain expectations. If they’re not overlapping, you have problems. Divergent expectations make for very unhappy situations, even if they don’t rise to a legal dispute.”
But if you’re over the age of 18, remember that if your employer asks you to sign a contract, it will likely be legally binding, adds Reece.
hours.
Wherever you apply to be a working student, trainers and students alike say, you’ll be expected to be on the job for long hours, especially if you are working for a competition-focused operation that will need you to work during shows. Allen suggests planning for 6 a.m.-to-5 p.m. workdays. “And go to sleep early!” she said. “It is so tiring.”
Professional grooms are also a source of deep, valuable knowledge. “They take care of horses day in and day out, and they know so much about horses and how to care for them,” Fournier said. “I just followed them around to see what they do, and I picked up so much from that. How they prepare themselves for the show ring, what they bring with them, how they fold blankets—it’s all so helpful to know.
“Be a sponge,” Fournier continued. “Be kind of a fly on the wall. Stay busy and try to find things to do, but also take the time to learn. Listen to others and what they have to say, and watch others ride, too. Get everybody’s perspectives.”
Spend extra time with the horses.
Any chance to get to be around horses— in or out of the saddle—contributes to your education. Volunteering for extra duties around their care or training marks you out as dedicated but also affords you another opportunity to learn, working students and employers say. “I think that, especially when
Heritage Farm’s Dignelli also encourages working students to let the equine operation know that they do appreciate the chance to work with the horses and staff.
“My brother and I basically own between five and 10 horses that go in this program every year,” he said. “The idea is that we’re feeding the pipeline. It’s an opportunity for these skilled riders to have rides and access to horses that they would not otherwise have access to. I want them to take part in understanding the program, both on the ground and on the horse—how we train a championship horse, how we pick the show schedule, the veterinarian, the blacksmith.
“For many, this is really their first look into having jobs and overseeing the care of a horse at a high level along with our staff of 40 people. But that’s how they’re learning it.
“I stress that it’s about talent, for sure, and a work ethic that’s above and beyond. And as I’ve gotten older, appreciation of the program and what I’m doing for a rider
“THE MOST VALUABLE THING IT
YOU IS GREAT PEOPLE SKILLS.”
– Jordan Allen
The chance to ride and compete is only one part of working student life. “I started off doing everything: I’d clean stalls, I’d clean tack, I’d hold horses for the farrier. You learn from everything,” said Jordan Allen, a longtime working student with Ashland Farms in Lexington, Ky.
“It’s such a full circle moment for me when I watch my former students helping others,” Heritage Farm trainer/owner Andre Dignelli says of former Heritage students like jumping athlete Kent Farrington (shown) coaching the next generation of riders. “That’s the moment where I know that, hey, they got it. And I did something.”
has also become important. I appreciate it when a student makes me feel like I’m making a difference, because it is an opportunity that I would say most could not afford or provide for themselves.”
It’s an opportunity that Dignelli remembers well from when Judy Richter opened her door to him, and he says he’s gratified to see that the knowledge he learned from her is now being passed on through his students to their own students. That legacy, he says, can help young students become tomorrow’s wise professionals—even if they think that’s impossible.
“My end goal is to give these kids an opportunity that they might not even believe exists,” he said. “I’m showing it does exist. I’ve got a 35-year history of its existing. And if you want to be a part of it, here are the tools. Here are the lessons and here’s what you’ve got to do.”
It’s the season for fresh starts! Green shoots are beginning to emerge as the sun warms the soil, trees and flowers are starting to bud, the days are lengthening—and the promise of more time with horses is in the air! There’s no better moment to take a little time for yourself and set your priorities for wellbeing and joy— yours and your horse’s. We’ve curated a list of our 15 go-to favorites for a little spring rejuvenation, whether you’re shopping for your barn family, your horse, or yourself.
Kick off your spring training and competition season with this valuable book, which will put you in what equestrian mental coach Annette Paterakis calls a “growth mindset.”
Kick off your spring training and competition season by getting in what equestrian mental coach Annette Paterakis calls a “growth mindset.” Paterakis has worked with athletes from amateur to Olympic level and specializes in helping equestrians create a mindset that builds confident, consistent, powerful performance—in both sport and life. $39. routledge.com
Paterakis has worked with athletes from amateur to Olympic level and specializes in helping equestrians create a mindset that builds confident, consistent, powerful performance—in both sport and life.
$39. routledge.com
Nourish your skin with Carter and Jane’s Equestrian Ultimate Collection. Includes refreshing body oil, roll-on aroma (with notes of hay!), oil butter to soothe overworked hands, and vegan soap. $98. carterandjane.com/collections/ the-equestrian-collection
Stanley’s Quencher H2.0 FlowState™ Tumbler holds 40 ounces and is made of recycled stainless steel for sustainable sipping with fewer refills needed. Whether you’re hauling to a show, hot and dusty after a day at the barn, or enjoying iced tea after a trail ride— you’ll want this tumbler on hand. Features comfort-grip inserts for easy carrying, and the narrow base fits just about any car cup holder. $40-50. stanley1913.com
Give your favorite horse-lover a membership to the USEF community, with all the benefits membership confers, including access to US Equestrian magazine, USEF Network’s live streams, the online Learning Center’s educational content, and so much more. Free to $80. usef.org/join
This eye-catching mixed-metal ring has an equestrian motif that’s classic, but it’s framed by a modern, playful setting on a tripleplated 24k gold- and silver-plated filigree band. Even better: it’s adjustable, making it a great gift for almost anyone in your equestrian life. $48. susanshaw.com
Hey, your tack deserves some pampering, too. Allnatural, four-ounce assorted scented leather balms with scents that suit each season.
$13. thebayboutique.store
Leather New’s Total Care cleans and conditions in one easy step. Color-safe for use on all leather goods, including black and dyed leathers. Avocado oil-based formula deep cleans, and the creamy consistency means it won’t drip or run. $13. farnam.com
PHOTO: SHELLEY PAULSON PHOTOGRAPHY
Chic with a touch of black-tie formality, Riata’s Snaffle Bit Hunter Derby goes with everything. Topped with a traditional snaffle bit brooch, it’s easily the season’s winning look for sun protection with stand-out style. $95. riatadesigns.com
Dapple Up’s essential-oil
infused formula is the perfect excuse for a spa day with your equine bestie. The pH-balanced formula features plant oils like lemongrass with anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties and peppermint for soothing, bug-deterring benefits. $42. dappleup.com
Platinum Performance® GI takes a gastrointestinal-focused approach to total equine heath, providing daily omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins and trace minerals, along with probiotics, prebiotics, glutamine, and more. This veterinary-developed supplement supports your horse’s health and performance, from digestion to joint health and everything in between. Starts at $111. platinumperformance.com
Ariat’s Clarion blouse is one of the season’s true delights. From the Countryside collection, it’s constructed of a light, silky twill that’s as comfortable as a spring breeze. Fits in nearly anywhere—at the office, for coffee with friends, or at a celebratory post-competition dinner. $120. ariat.com
Enjoy the most comforting, cozy scents of the stable by lighting a StableStyle candle at home. Scents include Fancy Barn, Tack Room, and the warm and woodsy Clean Barn (what could be more satisfying?). Each soy wax candle features a wooden wick, an elegant ombre jar, and gold font. Candles arrive in a beautiful box, perfect for gifting. $26. stablestyle.shop
Dapplebay’s weekly planner notepad makes it easy to keep plans on track and remember what’s truly important. More than a to-do list, it features space to jot down notes about the week, spots for gratitude and self-care, and more. $18. dapplebay.com
The Rambo® Protector fly sheet’s unique self-repairing fabric is designed to last season after season and offers maximum protection with extended hood shape, full chest coverage, belly coverage, extra depth to knee, and 65% UV protection. The V-front closure and dual leg arches allow for maximum movement and prevent rubbing on the shoulders. $190. horseware.com
Because everyone needs a little R & R after the big show or a long day at the barn. Get comfy right down to your toes with these all-season slippers. They’re fuzzy sherpa fleece on the outside and lined with a silky soft faux fur. Bonus points for the durable rubber sole, just in case you need to run out for night check. Size up if you like them flippy and floppy. $50. dreamersnschemers.com
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.
RACHEL AGEE of Lothian, Md., violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation in connection with the Winston National Horse Show held on August 17-21, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse MILES AHEAD after it had been administered and/or contained in its body dexamethasone in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level.
For this violation it was determined that RACHEL AGEE be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $750 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 MILES AHEAD at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
MALCOLM BARNWELL of Redwood City, Calif., violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation in connection with the Silicon Valley Equestrian Festival 1 Horse Show held on August 24-28, 2022, in that he, as trainer, exhibited the horse USIDOR DE PERHET 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 MALCOLM BARNWELL be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $750 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for these violations of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by USIDOR DE PERHET at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
JULIE CLEVELAND BEAM of Argyle, Texas, violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation in connection with Nashville Country Horse Show held on May 25-29,
2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse DIAMANTE T 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 JULIE CLEVELAND BEAM be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $750 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 DIAMANTE T at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
MICHAEL BERTOZZI of Leesburg, Va., violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation in connection with the Lexington Spring Encore Horse Show held on May 4-8, 2022, in that he, as trainer, exhibited the horse MARCUS AURELIUS 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 MICHAEL BERTOZZI be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $750 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 MARCUS AURELIUS at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
CORINNE BEVIS of Carpinteria, Calif., violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation in connection with the Blue Grass Festival Horse Show held on August 16-21, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse CASSARIO 8 after it had been administered and/or contained in its body ketoprofen in a plasma
concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level.
For this violation it was determined that CORINNE BEVIS be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $1,250 (fine was enhanced due to level of ketoprofen detected) 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 CASSARIO 8 at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
GWEN BLAKE , of Auburn, Wash., violated Chapter 7, GR702.1.a, GR702.1.d; the USEF Code of Conduct; and the USEF Safe Sport policy , in that in connection with the Arabian Sport Horse Celebration Horse Show held on June 4-5, 2022, Ms. Blake, as the facility owner, was reported to have engaged in aggressive and repeated confrontations with an exhibitor, which was deemed to be disproportionate and inappropriate given the facts and circumstances.
The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution with Ms. Blake following an investigation, during which Ms. Blake was represented by Counsel. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the seriousness of the violations and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.
For her violation of the Rules and Policies, it was determined that GWEN BLAKE be fined in the amount of $500, pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1.k. It was further determined that GWEN BLAKE serve a period of probation to run through April 30, 2024.
VINISSA BLANN of Delray Beach, Fla., violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation, in
connection with Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, June II Horse Show held on June 10-12, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse QUITE FRANKLY 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 VINISSA BLANN be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $750 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 QUITE FRANKLY at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
ALAINA BROOKS of Hayesville, N.C., violated Chapter 4, GR410-411, of this Federation in connection with the Virginia Young Horse Festival Horse Show held on August 26-28, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse SLUSHIE after it had been administered and/or contained in its body cetirizine and hydroxyzine. 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 ALAINA BROOKS 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 SLUSHIE at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
MARK DE BLASIO of Warwick, R.I., violated Chapter 4, GR410-411, of this Federation in
connection with the Head of the Bay Classic I Horse Show held on July 27-31, 2022, in that he, as trainer, exhibited the horse KRONEVALD’S DE MARCO after it had been administered and/or contained in its body cetirizine and hydroxyzine. 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 MARK DE BLASIO 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 KRONEVALD’S DE MARCO at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
JENNIFER CARR of Knoxville, Tenn., violated Chapter 4, GR410-411, of this Federation in connection with the Brownland Farm Summer Horse Show held on June 29-July 3, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse ROSMEL’S FAIRY GLOW 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 CARR 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 ROSMEL’S FAIRY GLOW at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
BRANDON CLINTON , of Pilot Point, Texas, violated Chapter 7, GR702.1.d and GR702.1.f; Chapter 8, GR801.2, GR848.4.a, GR838.4.b, and GR838.4.m; and the USEF Code of Conduct, in that on or about May 21, 2022, during the Show Jumping Classic Horse Show held May 18-22, 2022, in Fort Worth, Texas, he was witnessed excessively whipping the horse REMINGTON STEEL in an aggressive manner at the in-gate after the horse refused to perform in the arena. Mr. Clinton proceeded to mount the horse without the mandatory protective headgear and rode to the warm-up ring where he continued whipping the horse. The result of
his actions caused multiple visible and palpable whip marks on the flank and neck areas of the horse. During this incident Mr. Clinton was overheard using profanity. The incident was witnessed by competition officials, employees, minor exhibitors, trainers, and spectators.
The Federation resolved this matter through an informal reso lution with Mr. Clinton, following an investigation and review of competition records, with which Mr. Clinton fully cooperated with the Federation and was repre sented by Counsel. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the seriousness of the violations and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.
For his violations of the Rules, it was determined that BRANDON CLINTON be fined in the amount of $6,000, pursuant to General Rule 703.1.k
It was further directed that pursuant to General Rule 703.1.b and General Rule 703.1.f, BRAN DON CLINTON 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 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, sus pended 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: (1) 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 four-month suspension shall commence on October 28, 2022, and will terminate at midnight on February 28, 2023. Any horse or horses, completely or in part owned, leased, or of any
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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 General Rule 703.1.c for the same time period. Regulations as to suspended horses are set forth in detail in General Rule 704.
COURTNEY COCHRAN of Santa Barbara, Calif., violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation, in connection with the Blenheim Summer Festival Horse Show held on July 20-24, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse DEVOTED 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 COCHRAN be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $750 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 DEVOTED at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
This is official notice of actions taken by the United States Equestrian Federation, Inc., Hearing Committee on November 17, 2022.
GABRIEL DESOTO, of Smiths Grove, Ky., violated Chapter 8, GR838.4.a; Chapter 7, GR702.1.d, and GR702.1.f of the Federation’s Rules and the USEF Code of Conduct, in that on or about July 19, 2022, while exhibiting the horse SF TOP SHELF (entry 347) in class 501 (HA/AA Park Horse Championship) at the Arabian & Half-Arabian Youth & Midsummer Nationals in Oklahoma City, Okla., Gabriel DeSoto used excessive force on the horse, including aggressively striking the horse multiple times with the whip.
The Hearing Committee gave consideration to the evidence submitted as well as the sworn testimony provided by the parties and witnesses participating in the Zoom video hearing. Mr. DeSoto was given proper notice of the Complaint and was represented by Counsel and afforded a complete full-day hearing.
In determining the proper penalty for the above violations, the Hearing Committee noted that Mr. DeSoto admitted that he was trying to work through an issue with the horse in the ring. Furthermore, Mr. DeSoto acknowledged that he
whipped the horse multiple times and pulled the horse’s head side to side in an attempt to “soften” him. Mr. DeSoto acknowledged that the ongoing class was not the appropriate time to attempt to school the horse as the “look” of the event was not a good one.
The Hearing Committee Panel noted that this was not a case where the show veterinarian could point to evidence of welts or cuts or blood in the mouth, which, if present, could have provided further evidence of excessive whipping or improper use of a bit and may have warranted a heightened penalty. Moreover, the Hearing Committee Panel considered that the quality and scope of the available class videos was not as sharp and comprehensive as it could have been, which also could have had an impact on the penalties assessed. Consistent with the USEF Horse Welfare and Safety Penalty Guidelines, and based on its careful review of the evidence, the Hearing Committee Panel determined that the appropriate result for Mr. DeSoto in the circumstances of this case is “a penalty below the stated range.” Accordingly, the Hearing Committee Panel unanimously imposed the penalties set forth below.
For his violations of Federation rules, the Hearing Committee Panel directed that pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1b and GR703.1f, GABRIEL DESOTO 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 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 as an exhibitor, participant or spectator, and is barred from (1) participating in all Federation affairs and activities; (2) holding or exercising office in the Federation or in any Licensed Competition; and (3) 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, 2023, and terminate at midnight on July 31, 2023. Any horse or horses completely or in part 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 time period.
The Hearing Committee Panel further directed that GABRIEL DESOTO be fined $4,000 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j.
CINDY DEVORE-KUHN of San Carlos, Calif., violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation in connection with the Adequan/ USEF Junior Hunter National Championship-West Horse Show held on July 24-27, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse SIMPATICO after it had been administered and/or contained in its body dexamethasone in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level.
For this violation it was determined that CINDY DEVOREKUHN be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $750 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 SIMPATICO at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
LINDA FURCHES of Oley, Pa., violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation, in connection with the Lion Country July Horse Show held on July 6-10, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited a horse after it had been administered and/or contained in its body methocarbamol in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level.
For this violation it was determined that LINDA FURCHES be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $750 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 the horse at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
HAP HANSEN of Encintas, Calif., violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation, in connection with the Upperville Colt & Horse Show held on June 6-12, 2022, in that he, as trainer, exhibited the
horse CONCERTO 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 HAP HANSEN be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $750 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 CONCERTO at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
SAYRE HAPPY of Wellington, Fla., violated Chapter 4, GR410 of this Federation, in connection with the Brownland Farm Fall II Horse Show held on September 14-18, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse CONDERO 3 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 SAYRE HAPPY be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $750 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 CONDERO 3 at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
ERIN JARVIS of Conroe, Texas, violated Chapter 4, GR410-GR411, of this Federation in connection with the Mid South Classic Horse Show held on July 6-10, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse HILBURY EREGON LEGACY after it had been administered and/or contained in its body flunixin and diclofenac.
For this violation it was determined that ERIN JARVIS 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 HILBURY EREGON LEGACY at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
DIANNE JOHNSON, of Kirkland, Wash., violated Chapter 8, GR848.4.e, of this Federation in that in connection with The Oregon Trail Horse Show held June 15-19, 2022, in her capacity as a Federation Steward, she failed to submit an Accident/Injury Report Form within twenty-four (24) hours of the accident, which resulted in an apparent concussion by the exhibitor.
The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution with Ms. Johnson following an investigation and review of competition records, with which Ms. Johnson fully cooperated with the Federation. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the seriousness of the violation and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.
For her violation of the Rules, it was determined that DIANNE JOHNSON be censured pursuant to GR703.1.a and fined in the amount of $300, pursuant to GR703.1.k.
DEANNE KELLNER , of Azle, Texas, violated Chapter 12, GR1202.1, and Chapter 13, GR1303, of this Federation in that in connection with the Texas Rose Spring Western Dressage Lite Horse Show held May 22, 2022, Ms. Kellner served as Competition Manager while ineligible due to the fact that her USEF Membership and USEF Safe Sport Training were not current/active prior to the start of the competition.
The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution with Ms. Kellner and the competition following an investigation. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the seriousness of the violations and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.
For her violation of the Rules, it was determined that DEANNE KELLNER be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1.a, and fined in the amount of $500, pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1.k. It was further determined that pursuant to General Rule 703.1.i, DEANNE KELLNER be suspended from serving in any official capacity until such time as all deficiencies have been cured.
DEBORAH KNUTH of Thiensville, Wisc., violated Chapter 4, GR410-411, of this Federation in connection with the Otter Creek Summer Horse Trial held on August 12-14, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse HONKY TONK 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 DEBORAH KNUTH 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 HONKY TONK at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
EMILY KOWIT of Gates Mill, Ohio, violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation, in connection with the Chagrin Hunter Jumper Classic Horse Show held on July 14-17, 2022, in that she, as owner and trainer, exhibited the horse CLEARVILLE 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 EMILY KOWIT be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $750 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 CLEARVILLE at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
KEN KROME of Westminster, Md., violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation in connection with the Cavalier Classic Horse Show held on July 13-17, 2022, in that he, as trainer, exhibited the horse SILVER DOLLAR 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 KEN KROME be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $750 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 SILVER DOLLAR at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
DR. JESSICA MCCASKILL of Advance, N.C., violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation in connection with the Made in the Shade Horse Show held on August 13, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse FILANDER 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 DR. JESSICA MCCASKILL be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and
fined $750 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 FILANDER at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
MORGAN HORSE BREEDERS & EXHIBITORS ASSN ., as Licensee, violated the USEF Safe Sport: Competition Quality Control System Policy, in connection with the Morgan Medallion Classic Horse Show held July 21-24, 2022, in that they failed to send or failed to provide proof that they sent the direct communication to all participants to remind them of their obligations and reporting requirements under the SafeSport Code, the USEF Safe Sport Policy, and the MAAP policies within 30 days prior to the start of competition.
The Federation entered into an informal resolution with Morgan Horse Breeders & Exhibitors Assn. to resolve this matter outside of a hearing. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the seriousness of the violation and determined that the following penalty was appropriate.
For this violation it was determined that MORGAN HORSE BREEDERS & EXHIBITORS ASSN., as Licensee, shall be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $500 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1k.
DARRIN MOLLETT of The Plains, Va., violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation in connection with the Upperville Colt & Horse Show held on June 6-12, 2022, in that he, as trainer, exhibited the horse BEVERLY’S BEBOP after it had been administered and/or contained in its body flunixin in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level, methocarbamol in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level, and guaifenesin.
For these violations it was determined that DARRIN MOLLETT be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $1,250 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. The fine was enhanced due to two violations. It was further directed that for this violation of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by BEVERLY’S BEBOP at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
NANCY NOBLE of Lexington, Ky., violated Chapter 8, GR848.3 and GR848.4.e, of this Federation in connection with the Rock
Creek Horse Show held on June 7-11, 2022, in that she, as Steward, failed to timely report an accident that resulted in an apparent concussion. Additionally, she was reluctant to report rule violations involving safety which was considered a violation of Chapter 10, GR1033.1.b.1, GR1033.1.c, and GR1033.1.d
In connection with the Lexington Junior League Horse Show held July 11-16, 2022, NANCY NOBLE violated Chapter 8, GR848.3 and GR848.4.d in that she, as Steward, failed to properly report two separate accidents involving four different human participants which were deemed serious and resulted in two exhibitors being transported for further evaluation. Additionally, she failed to file any report of the second accident in violation of GR848.2.
In connection with the World’s Championship Horse Show held August 20-27, 2022, NANCY NOBLE violated GR849.4 of this Federation, in that, she, as Steward failed to timely report that a horse was euthanized following an injury sustained in its stall which precluded other vital steps from being followed.
Based on the information currently available to the Federation for the serious and repeated violations identified above, it was determined that NANCY NOBLE be fined $500 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for these violations of the rules, NANCY NOBLE shall be subject to probation during the 2023 competition year.
MEGAN PAPPLER of Hainesport, N.J., violated Chapter 4, GR410-411, of this Federation in connection with the Maryland International + Horse Trials held on July 8-10, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse MR. OCTOBER after it had been administered and/or contained in its body cetirizine and hydroxyzine. 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 MEGAN PAPPLER 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 MR. OCTOBER at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
JUDY PETERS, of Ashley, Ohio, violated Chapter 8, GR848.2, and Chapter 10, GR1033.3.a.2, of this Federation in connection with the Woodbine Farm June Horse Show held June 16-19, 2022, in that as the Federation Steward, she failed to timely submit properly completed Accident/Injury Report Forms, for two separate exhibitors, despite numerous requests from the Federation.
The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution with Ms. Peters following an investigation and review of competition records, with which Ms. Peters fully cooperated with the Federation. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the seriousness of the violations and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.
For her violation of the Rules, it was determined that JUDY PETERS be fined in the amount of $300, pursuant to General Rule 703.1.k.
JENNIFER ROGNESS of Stillwater, Minn., violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation in connection with the Otter Creek Summer Horse Trial held on August 12-14, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse MY HAPPY PLACE after it had been administered and/or contained in its body dexamethasone in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level.
For this violation it was determined that JENNIFER ROGNESS be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $750 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 MY HAPPY PLACE at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
LIA SCRENCI, of Spring Hill, Tenn., on or about July 24, 2022, in connection with the USHJA Platinum Jumper Championships held during the Tryon Summer 6 Horse Show, violated the USHJA Platinum Jumper Championship Specification, which states, “only the competing athlete may be mounted on the Championship horse after the official horse inspection,” when her trainer mounted and rode her Championship entry.
The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution with Ms. Screnci following an investigation and review of competition records, with which Ms. Screnci fully cooperated with the Federation. In determining the
proper penalty, the Federation took into account the seriousness of the violation and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.
For her violation of the Rules, it was determined that LIA SCRENCI shall be disqualified from the USHJA Platinum Jumper Championships Individual Final. In addition, LIA SCRENCI must return for redistribution all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies won during the USHJA Platinum Jumper Championships Individual Final, and must pay a $300 fee to the competition in connection with this penalty pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1.h.
LOUISE SERIO of Kennett Square, Pa., violated Chapter 4, GR410-411 of this Federation in connection with the Princeton Summer Classic Horse Show held on July 27-31, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse CASANOVA B after it had been administered and/or contained in its body 3-Hydroxymepivacine. 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 LOUISE SERIO 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 CASANOVA B at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
SHP MGT , as Competition Management, violated Chapter 10, GR1004.2, GR1005.1.b, and GR1005.4, of this Federation in connection with the SHP Spring Classic II Horse Show held May 18-22, 2022, in that as Competition Management they failed to ensure the required Guest Judge Card was acquired for the Hunter and Hunter Seat Equitation Judge.
The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution with SHP MGT following an investigation and review of competition records, with which SHP MGT fully cooperated with the Federation. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the seriousness of the violations and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.
For its violation of the Rules, it was determined that SHP MGT, as Competition Management, be
censured pursuant to GR703.1.a. and fined in the amount of $300, pursuant to GR703.1.k.
SOUTHBOUND SARATOGA MANAGEMENT GROUP , from Greenfield Center, N.Y., as Competition Management, violated Chapter 3, GR302.1.h.3, of this Federation in connection with the Saratoga Special III Horse Show held August 11-14, 2022, in that they offered and held agerestricted Hunter Seat Equitation classes, although this section was not included in the License Agreement.
The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution following an investigation, in which Southbound Saratoga Management Group fully cooperated with the Federation, including taking full responsibility for the discrepancy in the License Agreement for the competition. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the seriousness of the violation and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.
For this violation it was determined that SOUTHBOUND SARATOGA MANAGEMENT GROUP , as Competition Management, be censured pursuant to General Rule 703.1.a, and fined in the amount of $500, pursuant to General Rule 703.1.k.
THE EVENT AT ARCHER , as Licensee, violated Chapter 3, GR302.1.h.1.a, of this Federation in connection with The Event at Archer licensed to be held on August 18-21, 2022. They did not hold any licensed phases on August 18, 2022.
The Federation entered into an informal resolution with The Event at Archer to resolve this matter outside of a hearing, in which they fully cooperated with the Federation throughout the proceedings. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the seriousness of the violation and determined that the following penalty was appropriate.
For this violation it was determined that THE EVENT AT ARCHER , as Licensee, shall be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $500 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1k.
MEGAN O’DWYER THIEL of Alpharetta, Ga., violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation in connection with Tryon Summer 6 Horse Show held on July 19-24, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse LEXX after it had been administered and/or contained in its body flunixin in a plasma concentration exceeding the maximum permitted level.
For these violations it was determined that MEGAN O’DWYER THIEL be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $750 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j. It was further directed that for these violations of the rules, all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies, if any, won by LEXX at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
SARAH TREDENNICK, of Wellington, Mass., on or about July 24, 2022, in connection with the USHJA Platinum Jumper Championships held during the Tryon Summer 6 Horse Show, permitted another person to mount and ride her entry after the official horse inspection for the Championships. Such actions constitute a violation of the USHJA Platinum Jumper Championships Specifications, which state that “only the competing athlete may be mounted on the Championship horse after the official horse inspection.”
The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution with Ms. Tredennick following an investigation and review of competition records, in which Ms. Tredennick fully cooperated with the Federation. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the seriousness of the violation and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.
For her violation of the Rules, it was determined that SARAH TREDENNICK shall be disqualified from the USHJA Platinum Jumper Championships and must return for redistribution all trophies, prizes, ribbons, and monies won during the USHJA Platinum Jumper Championships, and must pay a $300 fee to the competition in connection with this penalty pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1.h.
MERRIE VELDEN of Fresno, Calif., violated Chapter 7, GR702.1.d, of this Federation in connection with the Starr Vaughn Summer Dressage I Horse Show held on July 15-17, 2022, in that she was witnessed participating in acts that were perceived as abusive and unsportsmanlike toward the horse FABULOUSLY while the horse was in its stall. Specifically, witnesses overheard her screaming at the horse, slamming a rake down right beside the horse, and banging on the stall doors.
As part of the investigation into this matter, Ms. Velden participated in an interview with the Federation in which she fully cooperated and answered all questions posed regarding the allegations. Ms. Velden admitted that a bystander could have
perceived her actions as inappropriate. The evidence concluded that her actions were not abusive.
Accordingly, based on the information currently available to the Federation for the violation identified above, it was determined that MERRIE VELDEN be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1.a, and fined $500 pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1j.
JAMIE VOLZ of Parker, Colo., violated Chapter 4, GR410-411, of this Federation in connection with the Midwest Charity Horse Show held on June 14-18, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse LUCKY YOU LUCKY ME 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 JAMIE VOLZ 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 LUCKY YOU LUCKY ME at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
KATIE YOUNG of Jacksonville, Fla., violated Chapter 4, GR410, of this Federation in connection with the Blowing Rock Charity I Horse Show held on July 26-31, 2022, in that she, as trainer, exhibited the horse PHILOSOPHICAL 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 KATIE YOUNG be censured pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1a, and fined $750 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 PHILOSOPHICAL at said competition must be redistributed pursuant to Chapter 7, GR703.1g.
TOM ZOLEZZI , of Cheney, Wash., violated Chapter 12, GR1202.1, and Chapter 13, GR1303, of this Federation, in that in connection with the Heart Show Series I Horse Show held July 9-10, 2022, Mr. Zolezzi served as Competition Manager although he was ineligible to serve in this role, as he had never completed USEF Safe Sport training, a
Criminal Background Check, and Competition Manager Education Course, all of which are required to be completed prior to the start of the competition.
The Federation resolved this matter through an informal resolution with Mr. Zolezzi following an investigation, with which Mr. Zolezzi fully cooperated with the Federation, including taking full responsibility and resolving his deficiencies. In determining the proper penalty, the Federation took into account the seriousness of the violations and determined that the following penalties were appropriate.
For his violation of the Rules, it was determined that TOM ZOLEZZI be censured pursuant to General Rule 703.1.a, and fined in the amount of $300, pursuant to General Rule 703.1.k.
