Lexington, KY - "Safety" is one of the most important words in the equestrian vocabulary. And to that point, the combined efforts of University of Kentucky HealthCare, the university’s College of Agriculture, Kentucky Horse Park organizations and other businesses have kicked off an education awareness campaign entitled "Saddle Up Safely." The announcement was made at the Kentucky Horse Park today, and dignitaries and equestrians were on hand to take part and promote the importance of safe riding practices.

“Saddle Up Safely" is a five-year strategy to raise awareness of rider safety while reducing injuries, as well. Kentucky First Lady Jane Beshear, herself a longtime event rider, was in attendance at the press conference.

The presentation stressed the fact that there is no such thing as being too safe when riding. Both human and equine athlete is at risk for injury should the proper safety precautions and ideals be followed.

UK HealthCare, the official medical provider for next year’s 2010 FEI Alltech World Equestrian Games, is comprised of university doctors, nurses and other support staff that will be on site for emergency care for anyone requiring it.

“Horses are my love, and safety is one of the things that it is of the utmost importance," said First Lady Beshear. "It’s no secret for all of us in Kentucky that we are the Horse Capital of the World. Whether you are an experienced rider or are near these beautiful animals, it is critical that you know how to interact with horses and safely ride. The ‘Saddle Up Safely’ educational campaign stresses the aspects of horsemanship and seeks to leave a lasting legacy for the World Equestrian Games.

“It is a common misconception that only the beginning rider is in need of instruction about safety and about the horse in general," she continued. "The reality is that even if you know all the rules, accidents can and do happen. It is up to each of us to take precautions when we are around these powerful and beautiful animals. Personal responsibility is the key to preventing injuries. Knowing how to treat and handle horses is important for every horse enthusiast."

“A main part of the Federation’s mission statement is to protect and support the welfare of the horse," said John Long, United States Equestrian Federation’s Chief Executive Officer. "This can be accomplished in part by teaching proper riding practices, wearing protective equipment, knowing your horse and its unique behavior and learning the rules for safe riding."

International eventer and certified riding instructor Cathy Wieschhoff put the Kentucky Horse Park’s Mustang Troop through its paces in a safety demonstration for the public and press in attendance. The troop was created as a program that strives to meet the needs of the threatened Mustang through a local community program to enhance the lives of inner city youth by introducing them to horses.

For a video clip of the press conference, visit http://www.clubequestrian.com/videos/watch/1294395231.aspx.

To view the online brochure prepared by UK HealthCare, visit http://www.ukhealthcare.uky.edu/saddleup/assets/Horseback_Riding_Safety_Brochure.pdf.

ENDS