During its semi-annual Board of Governors meeting April 25, the United States Polo Association (USPA) voted to establish a committee to examine existing and additional safeguards for polo horses, including developing a prohibited substance policy.

The USPA’s Board of Governors approved the following motion:

“In light of the tragedy that occurred this past week, the USPA Equine Welfare Committee requests that the USPA Chairman establish a research committee to (i) review the forthcoming results from the civil authorities conducting the formal investigation and (ii) develop appropriate policies that will ensure the safety and well-being of polo horses.”

“The USPA has a tradition of promoting equine safety,” said Peter Rizzo, executive director of the USPA. “The Board of Governors today approved the establishment of a review committee to examine equine safety issues in polo, including veterinarians, players, owners, and polo leaders. The committee will examine the practices and policies of other equestrian organizations, as well as examine existing protections for horses and possible improvements including the establishment of a prohibited substance policy