The USEA Nominating Committee announced today that Brian Sabo of Newport Beach, Calif., has been nominated to succeed current president Kevin Baumgardner when his term expires in December this year. This is the culmination of an intensive search process by the members of the Nominating Committee, which consists of Chairman Roger Secrist, Kyra King Stuart, Beth Lendrum, Malcolm Hook and Jon Holling.

Sabo’s nomination will be subject to confirmation by the Board of Governors at the USEA Annual Convention in Scottsdale, Ariz, Dec. 8-12.

Sabo, 56, first competed in the sport of eventing in 1962 in Pebble Peach, Calif. Over the years he has worn many hats in the eventing and equestrian world, from being a leading rider to designing and building the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Eventing show jumping course to coaching the vaulting and eventing Young Riders programs. Currently he is a member of the USEA Board of Governors and on the Executive Committee as Vice President of Membership.

“Brian is an outstanding choice. He is someone who understands the sport inside and out, and who has the vision, energy and personal skills to really make a difference. Most importantly, Brian understands the challenges faced by eventers at every level, and will listen to and respect the viewpoints of all segments of our membership,” said Baumgardner. “I look forward to working closely with Brian over the next eight months to effect a smooth transition of leadership and to ensure that he can hit the ground running when he takes over as president in December.”

Sabo said he is energized by the challenge before him. “I look forward to continuing the work of our passionate membership. The solid foundation of leadership and innovation laid by our Board of Governors, President Kevin Baumgardner, CEO Jo Whitehouse and the USEA staff has kept our association moving forward,” he said. “Eventing is one of the world’s most exciting equestrian sports and the USEA represents this sports finest equestrian community. Our 50-year history of quality programs and activities is unparalleled. Coupled with a committed membership that includes fans, spectators, riders, trainers, vendors, organizers, officials and equestrian professionals from all fields, the USEA has set a course for a safe and exciting future. It will be an honor to play a small role in that future.”