The USEA is very sad to announce that Ann Rickard Haller died suddenly today with what appears to be complications related to an ongoing medical condition. Ann was working as the press officer and cross-country controller at Great Meadow International this weekend and passed away at a local hospital.
Ann was involved in so many aspects of eventing and was truly at the heart of the sport. She embodied the real spirit of an eventer with a “get it done” attitude pitching in to make sure whatever needed to get done was done.
Ann worked in the press office at many events around the country including the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, Fair Hill International, Rebecca Farm, NAYC, World Equestrian Games, and the USEA American Eventing Championships, just to name a few. She often multitasked as the cross-country controller or took on other roles as needed.
A self-declared “army brat,” Ann grew up all over. She was a graduate H-A pony clubber from Hood Pony Club (Texas) and was a member of more than half a dozen pony clubs. She continued to be involved in Pony Club for over 25 years as an instructor, clinician, coach, National Examiner, Chief Horse Management Judge, past member of the USPC national eventing and horse management committees, and past member of the USPC Board of Governors. She was a Level II USEA Certified Instructor as well as being a USPC Level IV National Examiner, and an FEI Steward. In 2006, she was inducted into the USPC Academy of Achievement.
Ann was predeceased by her husband, Roger Haller, who died in 2016. She leaves behind a multitude of friends, her horse Master of the House, and a huge hole in the eventing community.
The USEA sends the sincerest condolences to all of Ann’s friends, family, and fans. More information will be released as it becomes available.
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