Lexington, Ky.—March 16, 2020
Dear Members,
Safeguarding the health and well-being of our members, human and equine, is our priority. Effective today, Monday, March 16, 2020, the USHJA, in alignment with US Equestrian, is suspending all USHJA competitions and events for 30 days.
Competitions that choose to run during this time period may not include the USHJA name with any class or property, and will do so without USHJA recognition. Competitors attending those events will not be able to accumulate or earn points, scores, money won, qualifications or rankings during this period for USEF or USHJA awards programs, Championships and events. Similarly, USHJA Outreach classes are suspended.
The USHJA is committed to supporting date changes for any USHJA properties scheduled to occur between March 16 and April 14, as rescheduling is in the best interest of the sport. Any Outreach events or other USHJA contracted events wishing to reschedule for a date outside of the 30-day suspension period should contact the USHJA Sport Department at hunterdept@ushja.org. The USHJA will work to accommodate the rescheduling of as many USHJA events as possible at the request of the manager. The USHJA will refund any fees already collected from Competitions hosting USHJA properties to take place during the 30-day time period.
We encourage our members to practice proper hygiene and take necessary steps to reduce exposure to the virus as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO). Maintaining proper hygiene; washing your hands frequently; practicing social distancing; avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth; practicing respiratory hygiene; avoiding people who are sick; and disinfecting and cleaning objects touched often can help reduce your risk of exposure.
The USHJA will continue to follow recommendations from the CDC, as well as state and federal government officials, and will monitor the situation closely and reassess its position before the conclusion of the suspension period.
Sincerely,
Mary Babick
USHJA President