2004 U.S. Equestrian Federation Annual Meeting

USEF Annual Meeting Concludes

At the first Annual Meeting of the new US Equestrian Federation, President David O'Connor convened two meetings of the Board of Directors.

Saturday's meeting began with the new CEO, John Long, addressing the Board on “Members and Medals.” He spotlighted his focus on member services, such as a group purchasing plan through an agreement with the National Thoroughbred Racing Association. Long also sees USEF medalists as inspirations: “Medals are important because of the heroes of the sport. Our goal should be to be the best team on the planet.”

Sunday's Board meeting was for voting on proposed rule changes. Committees and rules forums had discussed and many times revised proposals; the Board considered specific rules at this meeting. Highlights include these issues—see details at the usef.org Web site.

Mileage rule: With 7 separate proposals, O'Connor will appoint a task force to study all concepts and present recommendations to the Board at the July meeting.

Mules: Now allowed in dressage.

Horse recording for life: Sliding scale of fees for horses under 3 years, and a study to offer a special limited-time promotion to record horses older than 3.

Warning card: New rule about steward or technical delegate issuing “yellow card,” signed by another official; judges also asked about their issuing the warning.

Breakaway jump cups: With 3 rules about requiring safety cups for hunters and jumpers, the Board emphasized the need to define this product. A prototype U.S.-made breakaway cup will be tested.

Swedish oxers: Banned in schooling ring for hunters and hunter ponies, for safety reasons.

Another topic of debate was a possible “veterinarian responsibility rule,” not yet a rule change proposal. The concept would require show veterinarians to be USEF members, yet every equine practitioner who treats show horses could also be affected. The Veterinary Committee will continue to discuss such a proposal, inviting input from the American Association of Equine Practitioners.

Sunday's Board meeting was also O'Connor's birthday—a Marilyn Monroe lookalike wished “Mr. President” a happy 42 nd birthday.

by Charlene Strickland

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