Are you a USEF member? If so, you might have heard that the USEF has some proposed rule changes that they are seeking member input on. Unfortunately, I’m not a USEF member because mules aren’t allowed at USEF Eventing or H/J shows. Since I can only show at schooling shows, there hasn’t been any point in my joining the USEF.
PC Hunter Drost
However, one of the proposed rule changes – GR 126.2 – would change the definition of horse to allow mules to compete in rated events (not including breed specific classes or shows). Obviously, I would love for this rule change to go through. There’s really no reason to exclude mules from rated competition. In my – admittedly limited – experience, mules are freaking difficult. No one riding a mule is getting any sort of advantage. It’s taken me two years to get Nilla to canter like she’s not a drunken donkey. And really, even that’s questionable on any given day.
Mules actually used to be able to compete in eventing. I’ve heard rumors that the exclusion was because horses were spooked by mules. However, I don’t buy that. I’ve had very few incidents where a horse was actually scared of Nilla. Most horses are just curious. And the vast majority don’t care at all. And really, if it’s a spooking issue, why does dressage allow mules? If DQs can handle mules, eventers need to man up.
Since I’m not a USEF member, I cannot officially comment on the proposed rule change, but I can ask you to. If you’re a USEF member, please go to the USEF proposed rule change website and let the USEF know that you want mules to be allowed to compete. There are a lot of mule owners/riders out there that I know of who really want this rule change to go through. Some of them want to do hunters, some jumpers, others want to do reining or western pleasure. I hope you’ll consider casting your voice in their favor.
I’m not a member this year but I hope it goes through!
Me too.
I was wondering if you’d comment on this one. I hope it goes through too!
There are some mule owners who are being real advocates. I figured this was the least I could do.
Not a member, but fingers crossed!!!
I’ve heard arguments for and against over the years. It was pretty fun to see this proposal go in.
(And I think I’m a USEF member but I don’t think I can vote on things?)
There’s not an official vote, but if you pull up the proposal on the right pages, there’s the option to comment on it. They’re basically gauging interest based on feedback is my impression. Super democratic I know.
It’s not a vote, they’re just seeking comments.
I know there are only certain pages where you can post comments, but just wanted to leave this link here for you! Once you log in, there’s the option to “Open Form” and that’s where comments go. I gave feedback on the rule already!
https://www.ushja.org/programs/rules/rules_prc.aspx
I sent them a separate email, but I’ll have to check out the open forums.
I am a member and I have commented that Mules should be allowed.
Awesome!
Mules should definitely be allowed!
You would think and yet it’s been turned down before.
Mules should really be allowed. I am not a USEF member, but I am all for it!
At least their allowed in Endurance without issue.
Down with Mule discrimination!!
Seriously!
I’m not currently a member, but I did send an email!
Awesome. Thanks so much.
I’m not a member (being a Canadian and what not) but I sure hope mules are allowed in! It seems only fair to me 🙂
Me too!
I’m not a member, but I really hope that it changes!
Thanks.