USHJA President Mary Babick's Letter to the Membership Regarding the Impact of COVID-19

Lexington, Ky.—Mar. 17, 2020

Dear Fellow Members,

We are living in a time of great uncertainty and facing the unknown is an unnerving experience. As we navigate through a constantly changing situation, I would like to assure you that we are looking to the future and planning ahead. Here are some thoughts:

  • We are working closely with USEF to make decisions for our segment of the industry. USEF President Murray Kessler has granted a Presidential Modification allowing Bill Moroney, USEF CEO, flexibility in responsibly shifting rules as necessary for the 2020 competition year.
  • We will have to adjust many of our programs and qualifying structures. This is currently a moving target and we will update you as soon as we know an answer.
  • We have allowed USHJA staff members to work remotely and modified operations. This may cause some slowdowns in service, and I ask for your patience.

Showing our horses is a bright light at the end of a dark tunnel. While we are looking forward to that, let us not forget that for those whose incomes depend on showing, this may be a very tough time. As a community, it would be a great thing for the strong to assist those who are in need.

Please stay safe and strong, and above all else, be both calm and kind.

I know that none of this feels reassuring at this very challenging and uncertain time. However, if I know anything about us, we as horse community, not just USHJA, have great resiliency and strength. It is the love of the horse that binds us together. Though we may not be able to show at this moment, we still have these incredible creatures that bring such pleasure and happiness to our lives. In this time of social distancing, spend quality time with them. They give so much and expect so little in return. 

I know we will come through this event. As with the fires in California, floods in the Midwest, hurricanes which devastated our lives, whatever the event and the outcome, we as a community will prevail. 

Stay strong, stay resolute, stay humble and hug your horse. God bless!

Mary Babick
USHJA President