Lexington, Ky. – US Equestrian is saddened by the news of the passing of Ned Bonnie (88), a passionate horseman known for his service and innovative approach to advocating for change within the equine industry, and for the Federation and its members and athletes.

Perhaps best known for his role as attorney and legal representation for the first Kentucky Derby winner ever disqualified for a medication positive in 1968, Ned was a true horseman and sportsman, equally as active and involved in horse racing, showing, steeplechasing, and fox hunting.

An innovative thinker, Ned was always exploring ways to improve governance and processes within the sport. Ned served as a Director of the American Horse Shows Association (AHSA) in the 1970s to early 2000s. He also played key roles on the Discipline, Licensed Officials, and Governance Committees, applying his legal expertise to the rule-making process, as well as serving as a fierce advocate for ensuring fairness and equality on the field of play.

“Ned was one of the preeminent equine lawyers in the country,” says Jimmy Wofford, former President of US Equestrian and Ned’s longtime friend. “The Federation was fortunate to have him as the guiding light for our Drugs and Medications Program, sitting on numerous committees and serving as legal counsel and prosecuting attorney for the Drugs and Medications Program. Our own friendship goes back well over 50 years. His moral compass pointed true north all of the time. Ned used to talk about the ‘little guy’ with one horse, a truck and a trailer, and stars in his eyes. He did not want someone to win based on buying their way to success. He wanted everyone to win on a level playing field.”

Ned was at the forefront of leading the charge for many changes made within the structure of the Federation. He is credited with being instrumental in the launch of the Federation’s Drugs and Medications Program in the 1970s, and he served as the guardian of the program for more than 30 years. Ned also encouraged and succeeded in making the Federation an individual member organization. He relocated its headquarters from Manhattan to Lexington, Ky., making the organization more accessible to its members in the heart of horse country.

In the early 1990s, Ned played a crucial role in the adoption of proportional representation of the Federation’s membership within the governance structure of the organization. Ned’s passion for horses was only equaled by his passion for the membership. His love and service to the industry he loved will be greatly missed.

Ned passed away at the age of 88 on Sunday, March 17, 2018, in Louisville, Ky., surrounded by family and friends.