by Nancy Jaffer | Jun 24, 2020
2020 is the year that masks became a “must” addition to every show-goer’s wardrobe.
“This for certain has been a crazy year that tested us all,” U.S. Equestrian Federation President Murray Kessler said as he opened the board’s mid-year virtual meeting Monday.
You can’t accuse him of exaggeration. It’s enough to cite the example he gave: When USEF licensed shows reopened the week of June 1 from their 11-week Covid lockdown, there were 29 competitions with 4,000 horses. During that week in 2019, there were more licensed shows drawing 11,000 horses.
But for that first week in June, more horses took part in the shows that were held than competed in those fixtures the previous year. At the same time, state and local regulations in many areas put a ceiling on the number of competitors and those associated with them who are allowed on the showgrounds.
It was emphasized that although USEF staff has been working from home, employees have been busy. To crank up the season again, it took more than 300 emergency rule modifications and rescheduling (there were 31 eventing competitions rescheduled, for instance.)
Despite losing revenue through the lockdown and the beginning of the start-up, USEF CEO Bill Moroney suggested it is possible the organization can get to the end of the year financially “at a break-even” by watching expenses as showing ramps up even more.
“If in the second half of the year you have 20 percent more shows, with 75 percent capacity, then you have an opportunity to make up a little ground,” said Murray.
But the federation to a great extent will be operating in unfamiliar territory.
“How in the heck do you plan next year?” Murray wondered.
“It’s going to be complicated. You’re going to have to think through this volatility.”
At the same time, he pointed out, “then it’s just how quickly the industry bounces back. At least from the organizers I’ve spoken to, there isn’t a demand-lack. The horse show community wants to get back to work. Most of the events that are running are sold-out.”
A new strategic plan went into effect when Murray was elected four years ago. As a corporate CEO (he now heads a health care products firm), he drew on his business background to energize USEF, which, among other things, has put the emphasis on a “greater consumer focus,” more than doubled its membership, dramatically increased benefits (including health care) for members and outsourced its drug testing after a controversy.
Leading the way to a solution for the troubled test lab was Tom O’Mara, who headed a task force that arranged for the University of Kentucky to take over the process. No surprise that Tom was selected by the nominating committee to succeed Murray and voted in by the board at the meeting, though he won’t take office until Murray’s term ends in January. (Find out more about Tom by clicking here.)
USEF President Murray Kessler.
Concerns brought forward to the meeting included the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association’s request that the USEF Pony Finals at the Kentucky Horse Park Aug. 3-9 be cancelled, but the decision at this point is to go ahead.
Bill noted there are 330 entries so far, and social distancing can be managed.
“If you can’t meet the protocols (like wearing masks when not on a horse) this is not the event for you this year,” Bill commented, noting “it will be a very different event this year.” That means no VIP or other extra-curricular opportunities. It will be focused on the competition itself.
Requests to revise the Horse of the Year Awards program did not prompt changes. As Bill pointed out, it was just “A shortened season,” with 11 weeks of competition missing. In the USEF archives, the results will come with an asterisk. Adjustments have to be made according to circumstances. Major League Baseball, for instance, will have its own shortened season.
Murray noted that people still got gold medals at the 1984 Olympics, even though the USSR and other Soviet bloc countries didn’t participate.
“People like to be inspired; people like to be recognized,” he said, speaking in favor of continuing the 2020 HOTY program.
The concept of giving riders who would age out in 2020 another year also was turned down. A move for “junior year reinstatement” would be complex because it would have to filter down to all the different age divisions, but it does appear to have stimulated discussions for more in way of Under 25 competitions in different disciplines.
Rule changes were not handled at the annual meeting as usual, but instead were moved to the mid-year session.
Those passed included dropping the age from 8 to 6 for a permanent measurement card for a horse or pony, a requirement that green hunters must compete three times for points and money to count, and a mandate that USEF must be notified within 24 hours if a horse at a show is placed in isolation due to illness.
Although there were no controversial major changes, discussing them and working out the nuances is always a process no matter what is on the table. Diane Pitts sighed over the proliferation of rules, comparing it to “creating a tax code.” Tom mentioned the possibility of organizing a small task force “to look at the rule book situation.” That should be a fun project.
Tom O’Mara with show jumper BEezie Madden at the USEF’s Horse of the Year awards.
“Diversity & Inclusion” was a hot topic, with a recommended action plan unveiled. It would include a Diversity & Inclusion website for USEF, along with a commitment statement, resource guides and training. There would also be a D&I Thought Leadership Group “across the industry to help inform and guide action planning.”
Although the number of minorities participating has increased since the organization was 96 percent white in 2000, there is room for encouraging much more involvement.
The action plan calls for evaluating grant opportunities and working with grassroots organizations. As board member Diane pointed out, “A lot of this may come down to access,” referring to the fact that many people across the diversity spectrum simply don’t have the opportunity to be near horses or take lessons that could get them started in the equestrian world. Finances often are a barrier to getting started.
She suggested, “if we could put our money where our mouth is” by providing grants or greater access, it would be “a huge statement.”
Lisa Gorretta, a board member who also is president of the U.S. Dressage Federation, thinks the increase in the number of minority participants is tied to the country’s economic improvement.
“This is an expensive sport regardless of the kind of activity you have in it. Where people without economic means have a problem participating in this sport is, unfortunately, the absence of what we had 40-50 years ago when I got involved in the sport, and that is a ton of riding academies,” she commented.
“There are some very successful…opportunities for youth, but there aren’t enough of them. The expense of maintaining those programs is astronomical.”
Murray, meanwhile, believes, “it’s more than access,” asking, “Are we truly an inclusive organization…?”
He said Vicki Lowell, chief marketing and content officer, will “get this resource center and section of the website up quickly that makes a statement that (diversity and inclusion are) a priority for our organization.”
by Nancy Jaffer | Jun 24, 2020
November’s Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto has joined the Covid cancellation list.
“Over the past several months, we’ve all experienced an unprecedented disruption to our daily lives and are redefining how we live, work and play. Ultimately, our decision is grounded in our commitment to help ensure the health and well-being of our community at large,” stated Royal CEO Charlie Johnstone.
The Royal Winter Fair’s horse show is incredibly popular and has always been a sellout on the final night. Photo © by Nancy Jaffer
“Our primary responsibility remains rooted in serving our community and protecting the integrity and welfare of all. We understand and appreciate the time, effort and financial commitment required to compete and exhibit at The Royal and did not make this decision without very careful consideration.”
Travel restrictions continue. The border between the U.S. and Canada will remain closed to nonessential travel until July 21. The restrictions, announced in mid-March, were extended in April and May. The question is whether they will be extended past July as more positive tests emerge. New Jersey, New York and Connecticut, meanwhile, have put quarantine orders on visitors from states where the virus is spiking, a situation that makes it hard to plan very far in advance.
The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair is the largest combined indoor agricultural fair and international equestrian competition in the world. The Royal has been cancelled only once before. During World War II, the stalls within the historic Royal Horse Palace were transformed into Army barracks to house soldiers preparing to be deployed to join Canadian and Allied troops fighting in Europe.
“During these uncertain times, we’re heartened by the resilience of farmers, the ingenuity of entrepreneurs, and the abundance of care shown towards family, friends and animals,” concluded Johnstone. “As we lead up to our 100th Anniversary celebrations in 2022, we take comfort knowing that the 2021 Royal Agricultural Winter Fair will be, as always, an outstanding experience for all those who compete, exhibit and attend.”
by Nancy Jaffer | Jun 22, 2020
Equestrian impresario Mark Bellissimo married eventer and Horse Scout CEO Lucienne Elms earlier this month in a private North Carolina ceremony “with just a handful of witnesses, together with the couple’s two dogs,” according to the Horse Scout website.
“I have married my best friend and love of my life,” said Lucienne. Although the ceremony was small because of the Covid situation, they are planning to be “celebrating properly” in Europe next year with friends and families from around the world.
Mark, CEO of Equestrian Sport Productions, has four children with his first wife, the former Katherine Kaneb. She previously was the publisher of Untacked magazine produced by the Chronicle of the Horse.
by Nancy Jaffer | Jun 17, 2020
The Alexandria Pleasure Pace in Hunterdon County is set for July 11 with a rain date of July 12. It’s being staged in lieu of the annual trail pace traditionally held in late September. Thiks pace will be at a new location with a requirement for pre-registration electronically, via Eventbrite, to conform with new guidelines on health and safety. No walk-ins.
All information can be found on the Alexandria Equestrian Association website, www.aeanj.com, under the trail pace page Sign up early as there will be a limited number of entries. The ribbons this year are extra special as they recognize the organization’s 20year anniversary.
If you would like to volunteer instead of riding in the event, click this link .If you would like to volunteer to help with trail clearing ahead of the pace, please email Alexis Madiara at alexismadiara@yahoo.com or call 732-814-8354.
by Nancy Jaffer | Jun 16, 2020
Riding with HEART’s spring tack sale has become its summer tack sale. Postponed from March, it now will be held June 27 (10 a.m.-3 p.m.) and 28 (noon-3 p.m.) at 639 Route 513, Pittstown. Riding with HEART (Hunterdon Equine-Assisted Recreation and Therapy) is a 501-3C charitable organization.
Most items are half-price on the Sunday. There are bargains to be had on kids’ riding clothes and gear for horse, rider and barn. Face masks and social distancing will be required. Call 908-735-5912 for more information.
by Nancy Jaffer | Jun 16, 2020
September’s Devon Fall Classic show jumping competition and fall festival held has been cancelled. Held at the Devon Horse Show grounds in suburban Philadelphia, it’s been a popular stop for riders from the region.
Devon Horse Show and Country Fair CEO Wayne Grafton explained that the decision to cancel was due to “the lack of regulatory guidelines within an adequate time frame in order to plan and execute the event.”
The organization “is very disappointed given the cancellation of the May DHSCF, but we are focused on the safety and well-being of our competitors, volunteers and spectators, as well as the overall community. We are putting all our efforts into planning the 125th Anniversary Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, to be held May 27-June 6, 2021.”
Dressage at Devon, a September competition put on by a different organizing group, was cancelled earlier in the spring. The Devon Fall Classic is expected to return in September 2021. For more information, go to www.devonhorseshow.net.
by Nancy Jaffer | Jun 12, 2020
Trainer Bob McDonald today denied an allegation involving sexual misconduct with a minor in 1973, following a decision by the U.S. Center for SafeSport that resulted in a lifetime ban from the U.S. Equestrian Federation.
The husband of U.S. dressage technical advisor Debbie McDonald is appealing in an effort to get the decision overturned through arbitration.
“It is beyond heartbreaking to see the reputation that I have painstakingly built throughout my career be tarnished by an allegation of misconduct from 47 years ago,” stated Bob, who became involved as a professional in the hunter/jumper industry more than half a century ago.
SafeSport is the “exclusive authority” investigating and prosecuting allegations of sexual abuse within Olympic and Paralympic sport.
Bob’s punishment means he is prohibited from participating in any activities or competitions licensed, endorsed or sponsored by the USEF. The sanction prohibits him from going to shows, which he often attends with his wife of 42 years, who once was the USA’s top dressage rider.
Bob McDonald
He noted it is “gut-wrenching” to watch “my loved ones being dragged through this as well. It is a terrible reality that we are living in a time when allegations alone would lead to the imposition of such a harsh public sanction.
“Unfortunately, the system in place does not allow for individuals to be given the opportunity to effectively defend any of the allegations prior to a ban, which is why I have requested for an independent arbitration on the matter.”
He added, “It would be inappropriate of me to comment more, other than to simply say that I categorically deny the allegations that have been made against me.
“Throughout my 50-plus year career in the sport, I have always acted in a professional and respectful manner towards all individuals that I have come in contact with, which is why I am shocked at the allegations that were made.
“While it is paramount for the sport to have a thoughtful and thorough avenue for our riders and trainers to address complaints and areas of concern, it is of equal importance that the process be fair and balanced,” Bob continued.
“That certainly has not been the case here. I am looking forward to the opportunity to present the facts and a fair defense at an independent arbitration. I stand firm on the reputation I have built over half a century and am confident that I will be fully exonerated when the arbitration is complete.”
Debbie is beloved, known for being as generous and warm-hearted as she is talented. Bob has guided her career and played an enormous and supportive role in her success.
Many people have come to Bob’s defense on social media, and he responded by saying, “I am humbled by the outpouring of support that Debbie and I have received during these past few days. It would be impossible to deal with this matter without your warm kindness and I wanted to thank you all for it. Your support has carried us the last couple of days and will continue to do so.”
On Facebook, dressage riders Laura Graves and Lauren Sammis called for change in the way SafeSport handles its cases.
“SafeSport has to go,” said Lauren, a Pan American Games team gold and individual silver medalist.
“Without due process, it is literally a witch hunt.”
Laura, who was trained by Debbie and is the only U.S. dressage rider to have been ranked number one in the world, noted, “I have spent a great deal of time with Bob and he has always been a supportive part of my career. I’m heartbroken to see them go through this.
“What can we do?” asked the Olympic team bronze medalist.
A group called Athletes for Equity in Sport, which involves representatives from other sports as well as equestrian, is seeking “to reform amateur sports’ disciplinary processes as well as the current inequity in SafeSport policy and procedures.”
Prominent equestrians who have gone through the SafeSport process and been banned include legendary hunter/jumper trainer George Morris and American Grand Prix Association Rider of the Year Rob Gage, who committed suicide last year.
The McDonalds, who have a son and one grandchild, worked together even before they were married. Debbie originally was a hunter rider but after a jumping accident in which she was badly injured, Bob suggested she switch to dressage.
Known for being a great spotter of equine talent, Bob found the promising Hanoverian Brentina. She was purchased by Parry and Peggy Thomas, who were clients of Bob’s and Debbie got the ride on the chestnut mare.
Debbie and Bob McDonald with Brentina at her retirement in Las Vegas. (Photo © 2009 by Nancy Jaffer)
Debbie and Brentina rose to become the top U.S. combination in dressage before the turn of the century, taking double gold at the 1999 Pan American Games and going on to be part of the silver medal team at the 2002 FEI World Equestrian Games. They also were on the bronze medal team at the 2004 Olympics, along with earning many other honors. Debbie was the first U.S. rider to win the FEI World Cup Dressage title.
by Nancy Jaffer | Jun 8, 2020
It isn’t officially summer yet, but the questions have been coming for weeks about what will happen to the three shows on the North American Indoor Circuit this October and November.
The organizers of the Pennsylvania National, the Washington International and the National have been working together on how to host the competitions.
“In this most difficult year, we believe it is important to find the best solution to hold these events prioritizing the safety of participants and best interest of the sport, with cancellation as a last resort. We are in conversations with the USEF and the FEI, local and state governments, and venue management teams and will announce plans the first week of July,” said a statement released by the U.S. Equestrian Federation.
“We are also looking closely at potential modifications to qualification criteria given the changes to the competition calendar and will make a coordinated announcement on the same timing,” the statement continued.
“We recognize that competitors are anxious to make plans for the end of the season and thank you for your feedback and your patience.”
Last month, the Capital Challenge show, which precedes the North American circuit Sept. 25-Oct. 4, announced it “is working closely with state and local government officials and is looking forward to welcoming exhibitors to the show’s home, the Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro, Md.
“In conjunction with the team at the Prince George’s Equestrian Center, Capital Challenge management is planning a comprehensive set of protocols to allow for a safe competition,” its statement said.
by Nancy Jaffer | Jun 5, 2020
Long Island’s Hampton Classic Horse Show, one of the most popular and well-attended U.S. equestrian competitions, is joining Devon, the World Cup finals and the Kentucky 5-star in the ranks of shows cancelled due to Covid-19.
The Labor Day weekend fixture, postponed until Aug. 29 – Sept. 5, 2021, is known as much for drawing celebrities to its VIP tent as it is for attracting stellar show jumpers, hunters and equitation riders. Just as Devon is a highlight of the spring, the Classic marks the waning days of the summer show season in style with the action involving six rings on 60 acres. It has been a “can’t miss” for competitors and spectators over the last 44 years.
Hampton Classic perennial winner McLain Ward is always a crowd favorite at the show. (Photo © by Lawrence J. Nagy)
“It is difficult to express how disappointing this is for everyone,” said Shanette Cohen, the show’s executive director.
“However, given the current situation and the uncertainty that lies ahead, our Board reached the conclusion that there really is no other option.
“Naturally, the safety and well-being of our exhibitors, and everyone involved with the Classic, takes first priority and the Board is unanimous in its belief that the wisest course of action is to put all our efforts and resources into ensuring that the Classic is able to return next year at the same high standard that everyone expects.”
Around the world, high-end shows like the Classic one by one have been postponed into 2021. Internationally, travel restrictions have made such major fixtures as Germany’s Aachen unable to proceed. But even domestic shows like the Classic that attract large numbers of spectators, have expansive (and expensive) VIP arrangements, offer a large vendor village (the Classic has 70 vendors) and are supported by major sponsors can’t proceed under Covid-related restrictions.
Social distancing makes selling sufficient seats to help pay for the shows impossible, and it can’t be effected in VIP areas that usually are jammed to begin with. Unfortunately, the Classic likely isn’t the last major show to cancel its 2020 edition, though there aren’t many in that category left that could run this year.
by Nancy Jaffer | Jun 4, 2020
October’s inaugural Maryland 5- star event at Fair Hill has been postponed for a year “due to health and safety factors, in addition to other challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic” and will take place October 14-17, 2021.
The decision, announced today after consultation with all the parties involved, was made because “not being able to guarantee the health and safety of everyone and producing the event in a limited capacity was not favorable for the Maryland 5-star at Fair Hill’s inaugural year.”
Event organizers and partners are now focused on producing the maiden event next year with a field of international competitors, as well as international spectators traveling to the event.at the newly constructed Special Event Zone at Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area in Cecil County, Maryland.
“It was a very difficult decision and we are very disappointed for the competitors, fans and Eventing community,” said Jeff Newman, president of the Fair Hill Organizing Committee.
“The Fair Hill Organizing Committee was created and tasked to plan and produce the inaugural Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill as a world-class, international sporting event that includes an abundance of fan offerings drawing spectators from around the world to Cecil County and surrounding region.”
Newman added, “From the start of the pandemic until now, like many sports and entertainment properties, we’ve fully vetted out different scenarios ranging from a scaled back event with some fans, a competition-only event without spectators, or postponing the event to 2021. Ultimately, we felt that the uncertainties and risks that will remain throughout the year are too great to overcome. As a result, with the support of our sponsors and key constituents, postponing the inaugural event to 2021 best enables us to achieve our original goals and set the foundation for a tradition that will continue for many years.”
The Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill is the newest CCI5*-L Three-Day competition on the international eventing circuit. Fair Hill is one of only seven eventing competitions in the world, and just the second in the U.S. with the 5-star distinction. Six out of the seven 5-stars have been cancelled this year due to problems related to the pandemic. Pau in France, scheduled to run the weekend after Fair Hill, is still trying to present its 5-star.
Sponsors of the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill were notified of the decision this week and backed the postponement. Primary partners include host location Cecil County and its agencies, Brown Advisory, Quarry View Building Group, Taylor Harris Insurance Services, Dubarry of Ireland, W.L. Gore, Old Dominion Electric Cooperative, FLAIR Equine Nasal Strips, Maryland Public Television (MPT) and The Sport Corp.
The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) and United States Eventing Association (USEA) were also informed, supported FHOC’s decision, and confirmed the new dates on the schedule for the event in October 2021.
“We recognize the difficulty of the decision to cancel the 2020 Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill considering the excitement and positive momentum building towards the inaugural event in October. We look forward to working with the Organizing Committee to support a successful event in 2021,” commented USEF CEO Bill Moroney.
The 2020 USEF CCI3*-L National Championship, which was to run with the 5-star, will be reallocated to a new venu, with details announced in the coming weeks.
Mike Gill and Michael Hankin will remain as The Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill’s co-chairs. They said, “Ultimately, postponing the event to 2021 was the right move for the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill’s first year because health and safety must come first. Our goal from the start was to showcase Maryland Pride to attending fans from around the world while also delivering a top-class competition for the riders and horses. However, due to the incredible challenges and uncertainty resulting from the pandemic, that’s just not possible this year. We look forward to producing an incredible event in 2021 and providing an economic stimulus.”
Fair Hill’s newly built Special Event Zone serving as the venue for the Maryland 5 Star features a new Ian Stark-designed cross-country course, as well as new dressage and show jumping areas constructed in the infield of the historic turf track. The USEF CCI3*-L Eventing National Championships and USEA Young Event Horse East Coast Championship will run concurrently with the CCI5*-L competition in 2021.
