USEF sent out an email today with a link to this on the subject: https://www.usef.org/faqs/20202021-competitions?utm_source=SilverpopMailing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Press%20Release%20-%20Live%20Series%20Comps%20Calendar%20-%2011.30.20%20(1)&utm_content=
FAQ: 2020/2021 Competitions
1. Will USEF members be ineligible to compete at USEF shows if they compete at WEC NSBA events? Will Licensed Officials be ineligible to work at USEF shows if they work at WEC NSBA events?
No. USEF members that compete at WEC NSBA shows are eligible to compete at USEF shows unless the FEI imposes a period of ineligibility under the FEI “unsanctioned event” rule. The same holds true for Licensed Officials. This rule does not apply to non-FEI riders, horses, and officials.
2. What is the “unsanctioned event rule”?
The “unsanctioned event rule” (FEI GR Article 113.4-113.9) states that any FEI Official, FEI registered Athlete, or FEI registered Horse that participates in an event declared by the FEI as unsanctioned faces up to six months ineligibility to participate in FEI and national events. Events that are “unsanctioned” will be identified at least 7 days prior to the event.
3. When will the FEI determine if the “unsanctioned rule” will be applied?
The 2021 events schedule for the World Equestrian Centre in Ocala, FL (USA) was discussed by the FEI Board November 25, but as more information on this matter is required, this was tabled for further discussions at the next FEI Board meeting on December, 15, 2020.
4. Why is USEF concerned that horse and human safety could be impacted?
USEF rules and regulations, the Equine Drugs & Medications rules, Equine Prohibited Practices, Concussion and Return to Play protocols, and the Safe Sport Policy and Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention policies, among others important rules, are the result of years of development, investment and expertise from members, the veterinary and medical community, as well as trusted advisors and USEF staff. All of these exist to ensure the safety and welfare of our participants and equine partners, as well as a fair and level playing field in the best interests of our sport and US teams. Additionally, USEF has a robust compliance, regulatory, and dispute resolution process to ensure the fair and equitable resolution of all disputes. USEF stands firmly behind these rules, regulations, and polices.
5. Was there no option for WEC to host USEF licensed events during the 12 weeks of the Winter Spectacular?
Several options exist and were shared with WEC representatives that would allow WEC to operate USEF licensed shows throughout the 12 week series. WEC chose not to take advantage of these options.
6. Where is the best place to send feedback on the World Equestrian Center licensing and competition access feedback?
All feedback should be sent to the USEF as the national governing body of equestrian sport and licensing organization who manages the calendar, mileage rule and mileage exemptions. Please send all WEC feedback to Competitionstaskforce@usef.org.
7. Why does the mileage rule exist? It seems like there is no way for new events to secure a USEF licensed show or series even if they are offering a top facility and prize money?
The USEF competition licensing rules, which include the Mileage Rule and Mileage Exemption process are in place to manage the competition calendar. Factors considered when evaluating mileage exemptions include but are not limited to: competitions standards, competition and calendar factors, sport growth and visibility, competition costs, concentration and migration of competitors, experience and expertise of competition management.
USEF supports and welcomes new competition organizers, facilities and investment in the sport to benefit members; however, major changes to the competition calendar require great care, observation and analysis to avoid unintended consequences that could jeopardize the sport, calendar stability and/or jeopardize horse or human safety and welfare.
In 2019 there were approximately 115 mileage exemption requests received, and approximately 81% of those requests were approved. So far, for the 2020 competition year, there have been approximately 170 mileage exemption requests processed, with approximately 80% of those requests approved. This increase in requests is largely due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, and the vast majority of mileage exemption requests received and granted are for Hunter/Jumper competitions.
8. Who makes the decision on mileage exemptions?
Mileage exemption requests are evaluated and decided by a panel of three neutral members. The Mileage Exemption Panel (MEP) is appointed by the Federation President, and the panel consists of the CEO or designee, a senior active member with competition management experience and a senior active member who participated in the Recognized Affiliate recommendation. Panelists are identified to the applicant competition and affected competitions in advance to provide the parties an opportunity to object to anyone perceived to have a conflict of interest.
The Panel reviews all materials and the Recognized Affiliate’s recommendation, and using the criteria enumerated in the USEF rulebook, determines if it is in the best interest of the sport to approve the request, or if there is an alternative level or rating available that the applicant may offer to better meet the needs of competitors.
9. Are the USEF dressage and eventing licensed events at World Equestrian Center still on the calendar?
Yes.
10. Can USEF National Dressage licensed events take place the same time as NSBA events at WEC?
Yes. At this time, USEF and NSBA events can take place on the same show grounds at the same time provided they are operated completely separate from each other.
11. Could the FEI deem the USEF National Dressage licensed events as ‘unsanctioned’?
No, they are licensed by USEF.
12. Will the two CSI FEI 3 competitions in January 2021 take place at WEC?*
The two CSI FEI 3* events have been removed from the calendar.
13. Is the Ocala CDI3 on April 15-18, 2021 permitted to take place?*
Yes.
