News

A Case for Revitalizing the Local Horse Show

Before the advent of multi-month destination competitions, traveling to local and regional horse shows on different weekends was the backbone of equestrian sport in the United States. One-day “trailer-in horse shows” and two- or three-day competitions with some stabling were usually hosted by a local riding stable or farm and provided the horse and rider […]

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Your New Horse Isn’t Insurable. Now What?

By Kara Pinato Scro Imagine you are in the process of finding and purchasing your dream horse. You’ve taken the time to try different horses, maybe you’ve had this horse on trial for some time and you know it’s the right one for you. You are satisfied with the results of the pre-purchase exam and, […]

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Olympic Skating Controversy Underscores SafeSport’s Importance

By Armand Leone, Jr. The recent Winter Olympics were notable for many reasons, but it was the controversy surrounding 15-year-old Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva that dominated headlines. While it was doping allegations that captured the most attention, the behavior of Valieva’s coach was equally disturbing. As to Valieva herself, her alleged violation occurred December 25, 2021, […]

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Between Rounds With Armand Leone Jr: A Case for Making Stewards Clearly Identifiable

Following the United States Hunter Jumper Association’s (USHJA) recent Annual Meeting, conversations took place around requiring stewards to wear a form of identification at competitions. Unfortunately, the idea has been tabled for further discussion and potential clarification. It should have been passed. Although stewards have a critical role in ensuring fair play at competitions, they […]

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A Case for Discontinuing the Mileage Rule

In recent months, the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) General Rule 314, otherwise known as the Mileage Rule, has again been a hot topic of discussion among U.S. equestrian competitors. Though I am not an authority on horse show and competition management, I have seen horse shows evolve since the rule’s inception in 1975. Especially […]

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The Risk and Duty of Designing Jumping Courses

By Armand Leone, Jr. When it comes to course designing in the jumper rings, safety of the horse and rider are the greatest concern. However, it’s also a course designer’s job to create a track that presents a level of difficulty that is appropriate for the class. If you only get one clear in the […]

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Horse Owner’s Legal Guide to Care

Whether at home, on the road, in the air, or at a show, our horses require care to prevent injury and maintain peak condition. The administrative aspects of horse care are often overlooked because the paperwork creates more hassle than benefit. Unfortunately, the days of sealing a deal on a handshake are fading, if not […]

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