Comments on: New Helmet Rules for Eventing and Dressage Passed at USEF Convention

By: Marie

Marie — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 12:14:29 +0000

When you sign up for a spot you agree to follow the rules. You don’t see pro football players say, “Well, I know playing football has risks but I’m an adult and I should get to choose to wear a helmet or not.” They have to wear helmets as well as participants in many other sports. I know we haven’t always done it that way but then we also haven’t always had the knowledge we have now.

By: Judy Robin

Judy Robin — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 08:41:54 +0000

I agree with the “principle” that adults should be allowed to make their own decisions. However, in practicality, many adults do NOT make wise decisions, and their actions actually cost you and I money! (higher medical bills, higher insurance costs, and on and on) That is why we have seat belt laws when driving vehicles, and why the equestrian helmet rule is essential. I wish all states would also make it mandatory for motor cyclists to wear helmets as well.

By: Andrea

Andrea — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 13:27:06 +0000

I disagree. I believe that decision should be left to the adult riders who compete in these disciplines. Mind you, I DO wear a helmet ALWAYS when I ride, but it is because statistics and common sense have convinced me that this is the safest thing to do. As an adult, fully aware of the inherent risks involved with horseback riding, I do not need “big brother” telling me what to do. I have no problem with USEF policies that ENCOURAGE helmet use, and believe that riders should not be penalized for opting for protective headgear — but they should not REQUIRE it. We have too many oppressive regulations already in this country.

By: Galadriel

Galadriel — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 22:46:18 +0000

This is one of the best things I’ve heard in a long time! Good for them!

By: Shannon

Shannon — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 19:21:30 +0000

Well i’m happy to see that they’re putting safety before fashion. I’d rather look goofy than wind up hurt.

By: CASSIE

CASSIE — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 16:09:03 +0000

I AM GLAD TO SEE THAT THEY ARE GOING TO MAKE MORE PEOPLE WEAR HELMETS. I HAVE COME OFF A COUPLE OF HORSES AND MAY HAVE BEEN HURT IF NOT FOR MY HELMET.

By: ponyjockey

ponyjockey — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 12:56:02 +0000

I’m glad that they passed this. Safety should be the #1 most important thing regardless of what discipline you ride in.

By: jockey girl amy

jockey girl amy — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 09:38:18 +0000

helmets,helmets,helmets THATS ALL ANY ONE TALKS ABOUT!!!!!

By: Emily

Emily — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 05:50:20 +0000

This is great! let’s be safe while we ride guys!