Lexington, KY - This spring, the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) hired Eric Stauffer of Middleburg, VA, as the Managing Director of Driving.

Stauffer, a native of Northeastern Pennsylvania, has been riding all his life. He got his start in the pony hunters then moved on to the pony jumpers - riding on the A circuit in the Devon, PA, area. He was then introduced to eventing by Sally Graburn, mother of Sterling (the current National Singles Driving Champion). Stauffer moved to the Middleburg, VA, area as a Young Rider, was a working student for Wash Bishop and Ralph Hill and trained with James Wofford.

“I’m looking forward to being a part of the U.S. driving program as our influence on the international stage continues to grow,” said Stauffer. “The driving community is made up of a dedicated group of horse people on both a national and international level. With the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in 2010 on the horizon, it is an exciting time to be part of the USEF and the Driving world.”

Stauffer brings an extensive background in horses and international competition to his new role. He successfully competed at the Advanced CCI*** level for many years. He was the stable manager for the Eventing Team from 1995-2000. He served in this role at two Olympic Games, two Pan American Games, a World Championships and a European Championships.

“Eric is a terrific addition to the USEF Sport Program Team,” said Jim Wolf, USEF Director of Sport Programs. “He has a great deal of experience in High Performance having competed at the international level in Eventing and through his position as the stable manager for the U.S. Team at several Olympic Games, Pan American Games and a World Equestrian Games. Eric has been working in the retail industry and brings his entrepreneurial spirit to his new position with the USEF.”

Stauffer, his wife Christy, and eight-year-old son Payton, have lived in Middleburg, Virginia since 1991.

ENDS

For more information please contact Joanie Morris at [email protected].