Alan F. Balch, President of the American Horse Shows Association (AHSA), issued a statement today on a new Drugs and Medications rule change proposal now on the table for consideration. The following statement is a result of a special day-long meeting, held May 12, with several AHSA members and industry leaders especially invited because of their particular interest in the Drugs and Medications issue.

One result of the special meeting was the completion of a new rule change proposal (also attached) that will be a subject of discussion at the AHSA Board of Directors meeting next Tuesday, June 2. The Board of Directors meeting will take place at the Marriott Hotel at the Philadelphia International Airport, Philadelphia, Pa., and will be open to all AHSA members and the press beginning at 2pm EDT.

The American Horse Shows Association, as the national equestrian federation of the U.S., is the regulatory body for the Olympic and World Championship equestrian sports – combined driving, dressage, endurance, show jumping, eventing, and vaulting – as well as 18 other breeds and disciplines of competition. As the country’s largest multi-breed organization, the AHSA has 67,000 members and recognizes more than 2,600 competitions nationwide each year. It governs all aspects of competition, including educating and licensing all judges, stewards, and technical delegates who officiate at these shows.

AHSA President’s Statement to Board of Directors and Rule Change Proposal