Taking the Lead in Equestrian Sport

Whether it’s a world class competition that gets your heart racing or a quiet moment in the barn that soothes your spirits in the early morning, interaction with a horse is an experience unlike any other. It is the thrill of winning; the challenge of training; the simple yet therapeutic company of a horse. Maybe one of these speaks to you. Perhaps they all do. One thing is for certain— horses transcend all age groups, lifestyles, and cultures to provide a truly unifying experience.

Equestrian competitors, leisure riders, coaches, fans and enthusiasts each share a personal bond with the horse. This commonality defines the membership of the United States Equestrian Federation [USEF] which serves as the National Governing Body for Equestrian Sport.

The USEF is dedicated to uniting the equestrian community, honoring achievement, and serving as guardians of equestrian sport.

Since its inception in 1917, the Federation has been dedicated to pursuing excellence and promoting growth, all while providing and maintaining a safe and level playing field for both its equine and human athletes. The USEF trains, selects, and funds our United States Equestrian Team which consistently wins medals at the highest level of international competition. The USEF also licenses equestrian competitions of all levels across the United States each year.

Fostering growth among newcomers as well as the coming generation is paramount to the Federation’s continued success. Our young equestrians continually raise the bar both at home and abroad, pushing themselves to be better and strive for accuracy, all while fostering and strengthening the connection between themselves and their horses.

The USEF contributes to the greater good of horses by assisting with their protection and welfare in crisis situations and natural disasters, as well as in daily competition. As part of this pledge to protect equine welfare, the USEF continues to help support federal and state governments and works closely with other national equine organizations.

Originally located in New York City, the Federation moved its headquarters to the Kentucky Horse Park in 1997, recognizing that the facility and surrounding area provide the perfect support for the vision of a national epicenter of equestrian sport. The Federation plays a guiding role in the production of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, one of the largest single sporting events to come to the United States, and also the perfect example of making the vision a reality.