Lexington, Ky. – The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) holds the welfare and safety of horse and rider as paramount to its mission as evidenced by the recent Board of Directors’ approval of new, tougher welfare and safety penalty guidelines.

USEF is in receipt of written reports and a video of the incident.  These reports and the video provide an account of Ms. Johnson-Merton’s actions following a fall from her horse during competition.  USEF has launched an investigation into the full circumstances of this matter.  The USEF will conduct this investigation and any subsequent actions in accordance with their regulatory rules and procedures. 

The USEF rules are in place to ensure that horse welfare and safety are protected at all times.