Renee Senter and Regina. Photo by Shelby Allen.
Since its creation in early 2021, the USEF Amateur Task Force has worked to clarify and update the rules surrounding amateur and professional status for adult competitors at licensed events. US Equestrian is pleased to announce that the Task Force has completed its assignment.
The Amateur Task Force consists of representatives from across US Equestrian-affiliated breeds and disciplines, and through focus groups, member surveys, and comments received through the Amateur Task Force inbox, the members have worked to determine the most pressing concerns of US Equestrian members and propose fair solutions regarding the rules surrounding amateur and professional status for competing members. These classifications are primarily outlined in GR1306 of the USEF Rulebook.
In its first year, the Task Force helped to create several rule change proposals that addressed common concerns and were ultimately passed by the Board of Directors. The following changes went into effect ahead of the 2022 show season:
Barn Duties: Amateurs may now accept remuneration for certain hands-on barn duties at home and on show grounds, including grooming, clipping, longeing, braiding, and tack cleaning.
Social Media Influencers: The rule now defines Social Media Brand Ambassadors and Social Media Influencers and permits amateurs to accept remuneration for engaging in those activities.
Teaching Basic Lessons: Amateurs in the American Saddlebred, Saddle Seat Equitation, Morgan, Arabian, Andalusian/Lusitano, National Show Horse, Paso Fino, and Western divisions are now able to teach basic riding lessons to beginner, non-competing riders in a part-time capacity under the supervision of a USEF member with professional status.
Status Change for Young Professionals: Members age 25 and under who have engaged in professional activities may reapply for amateur status after a three-month waiting period, down from the previous 12-month waiting period. An individual may only use the three-month option one time, and the 12-month waiting period still applies to adults over age 25.
You can read much more about the updates to the Amateur Status rules and how they may affect you here.
