(Edited press release)
David O’Connor, president of the United States Equestrian Federation, Olympic gold medalist, and Pan 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 2005-09 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 O’Connor's leadership, the USEF formed the United States Hunter Jumper Association, improved the Drugs and Medication Program, and increased the Federation’s financial stability.
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, Fla., the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, Va., and the Colorado Horse Park in Parker, Colo.
“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.”