The U.S. Equestrian Federation announced a six-month suspension for trainer and rider Devin Ryan in a March 9 posting of Hearing Committee rulings. Ryan was also fined $6,000 for not keeping the welfare of the horses at the forefront.
The fine and suspension are the result of an incident occurring at the Hampton Classic Horse Show (N.Y.). Ryan was expelled from the show grounds on Aug. 28, 2015, after USEF stewards and veterinarians found marks on the legs of five horses under Ryan’s care.
Steward Ralph Alfano filed a charge of violation of horse welfare, and Ryan was temporarily suspended by the USEF on Sept. 8, 2015. The temporary suspension was lifted Oct. 1 pending a hearing, which took place Nov. 18, 2015.
“Devin Ryan of Long Valley, N.J., violated Chapter 7, GR702 of Federation rules in that he entered five entries to compete at the Hampton Classic Horse Show held on August 23-30, 2015, in a condition that was not in the best interest in the welfare of the horses,” states the USEF notice.
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Ryan is currently competing at the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit (Fla.). Ryan’s suspension will start April 1 and will end Oct. 31.
Ryan, 34, did not respond to the Chronicle’s requests for an interview by press time.
