The U.S Equestrian Federation announced that it is opening an investigation into the incident with Joe Cool and Jazz Johnson-Merton at the Hampton Classic Horse Show (N.Y.). The USEF statement reads: “The U.S. Equestrian holds the welfare and safety of horse and rider as paramount to its mission as evidenced by the recent Board of Directors’ approval of new, tougher welfare and safety penalty guidelines.
“USEF is in receipt of written reports and a video of an incident at the Hampton Classic (N.Y.) involving Ms. Johnson-Merton’s actions following a fall from her horse during competition. The USEF has launched an investigation into the full circumstances of this matter. The USEF will conduct this investigation and any subsequent actions in accordance with their regulatory rules and procedures.
“The USEF rules are in place to ensure that horse welfare and safety are protected at all times.”
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The Chronicle of the Horse reported on this incident, and it quickly spread around the internet.
UPDATED 9/23/17 1:06 p.m.: Jazz Johnson-Merton released a letter she wrote to USEF President Bill Moroney.
