Lexington, KY – George Morris, who was appointed to the Search Committee for the new U.S. Show Jumping Chef d’Equipe based on his credentials as a leading U.S. Show Jumping rider, trainer and coach, has resigned from the Committee effective January 24, 2005. The remaining members of the Search Committee are Karen O'Connor, Eric Straus, Chairman, Norman Dello Joio, Anne Kursinski, Jessica Ransehousen, and Robert Ridland.

“After careful consideration I have decided to explore the possibility of applying for the position of Chef d’Equipe myself. I have, therefore, resigned from the Search Committee,” said Mr. Morris.

“We are currently considering applicants from both the United States and other countries. Should he apply, Mr. Morris would join that group which currently totals seven individuals,” said Eric Straus, Chairman of the Search Committee. “We have extended our original deadline of January 15th for our recommendation of the new Chef d’Equipe so that anyone else who is interested still has the opportunity to apply as well. We then intend to proceed with the selection process in the near future by communicating with the candidates regarding the next steps.”

Applicants must express their interest in writing, and include their CV and competition history. Replies should be sent to Mrs. Sally Ike, Director of Show Jumping High Performance Activities, by mail at P.O. Box 83, Gladstone, New Jersey, 07934, by fax, (908) 234-9417, or through e-mail: [email protected]

For more information, please contact Sarah Lane, Public Relations Manager on (859) 225-6974 or via e-mail at [email protected]. USEF press releases are available on our web site – www.usef.org.