American Horse Council Press Release
Contact: American Horse Council
bharrison@horsecouncil.org

David O’Connor Elected to AHC Board of Trustees

David O’Connor, president of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), Olympic gold medalist, Pam American Games and World Equestrian Games medalist, has been elected to the Board of Trustees of the American Horse Council.

In 2004, O’Connor officially retired from international competition and was re-elected as president of USEF for the 2005-2009 term.  As president, he works closely with the FEI, the international governing body for all non-racing horse sports, and serves as the official spokesperson of the Federation on all matters relating to its governance and direction.  Under his leadership, the USEF formed the United States Hunter Jumper Association, improved the Drugs and Medication Program, increased the Federation’s financial stability and witnessed the success of our international teams.

In additional to his USEF duties, O’Connor has taken his career in new directions including international coaching, having accepted the position of coach of the Canadian Eventing Team.  Using his skill and experience he has also become a course designer for such venues as the Ocala Horse Park in Ocala, FL, the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, VA, and the Colorado Horse Park in Parker, CO.

“We are pleased to have someone with David’s experience and ability as a member of our Board”, said Jay Hickey, president of the American Horse Council.  “He provides great contacts with the show industry, both here and abroad”.

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As the national association representing all segments of the horse industry in Washington, D.C., the American Horse Council works daily to represent equine interests and opportunities. Organized in 1969, the AHC promotes and protects the industry by communicating with Congress, federal agencies, the media and the industry on behalf of all horse related interests each and every day.

The AHC is member supported by individuals and organizations representing virtually every facet of the horse world from owners, breeders, veterinarians, farriers, breed registries and horsemen's associations to horse shows, race tracks, rodeos, commercial suppliers and state horse councils.