ESC Presentation at the UPHA Convention Educates Members

Equine Sports Council was pleased to host an educational forum at the UPHA National Convention on Friday, January 10th. Dr. Travis Mays presented, “Demystifying Drug Testing,” and shared information on the chain of custody process and testing procedures at Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory.

In addition to Dr. Mays’ presentation, Tamara Tucker, ESC Director and General Counsel, introduced our Show Safety Policy. Jackie Hale, Director, provided an update on the USDA’s Horse Protection Act and a checklist of regulations for trainers. And fellow Director, Shane Darnell, shared information about what we learned from the 2024 drug testing results and outlined some changes in withdrawal times we are considering for a few popular NSAIDS.

Attached are PDFs of the handout that was distributed following the presentation, with important HPA Regulations that you need to know for the 2025 season. Also included is a sample letter to your Congressman urging changes to the HPA, and information about what ESC is doing to support and protect the Trotting Breeds. Please feel free to SHARE this information with stables and stakeholders in your area, as all breeds and disciplines will be affected by these new regulations.