In a place where equine traditions run deep and Southern hospitality is the rule, the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) gathered its members from far and wide to host its 2005 Annual Meeting. Scheduled across five days, the event lays the foundation for a panorama of meetings, think-tank forums and boardroom sessions. In addition, the much-anticipated award programs provide attendees with ample opportunities to socialize and raise their glasses in a celebratory toast to those equestrians who have made the past competition year one of great success. From cocktail receptions to Friday evening’s lavish Pegasus Awards and Saturday’s Horse of the Year banquet, there is certainly no shortage of cheers and kudos to be hailed.

On the first day of the 2005 Annual Meeting, registrants arrived at downtown Louisville’s historic Seelbach Hilton Hotel to check in and begin their work. Steeped in tradition, as well as being a national and literary landmark, the Seelbach Hotel plays a perfect setting with its colorful history and importance. (To learn more about the Seelbach Hotel and its rich and interesting past, visit http://www.seelbachhilton.com.)

The schedule of events for the day included three Rules Forums – both National and International – plus a General Rules meeting. Working Groups that gathered to discuss a host of topics included National Affiliates, High Performance, FEI Affiliates and an Administration & Finance meeting. Thursday promises to be a long day in itself. A long list of committees began their tasks-at-hand by convening to discuss rule changes and specific breed and discipline issues on the minds of their respective memberships. Among the committees holding sessions on Thursday are: Executive, National Hunter, Hackney, Competition Management, Drugs & Medications, Licensed Officials, Dressage High Performance, Budget & Finance, National Jumper, Friesians, National Show Horse and Paralympic Equestrian. The USEF Board of Directors will be seated for the first of several long sessions to be called over the five days.

Perhaps the highlight of the first day of this year’s Annual Meeting was the Welcome Reception. Providing a respite from the day of work, and ensuring a time when all the many attendees can gather together, it was located in the medieval-themed Rathskeller. Those joining in were treated to an impressive selection of hors d’oeuvres and seafood prepared by the renowned chef staff of the host hotel. The Bourbon tasting – a must for any proper cocktails thrown in the Derby City – proved a delight for those uninitiated to the state’s signature beverage of choice.

The 2005 Annual Meeting continues on Thursday with the USEF Media Awards Luncheon where journalists, photographers and industry members are being honored for their work and contributions to equestrian media. The luncheon also includes the Keynote Address of USEF President David O’Connor, plus a video tribute to the multitude of breed and discipline national and international champions, including the Olympians who made the trek to Athens in 2004.