Release & Waiver of Liability Form
**Notice to Attendees and Visitors**
Please be advised that this event is conducted in accordance with the Michigan Equine Liability Act, MCL 600.2950 et seq. By participating in this event, you acknowledge and accept the inherent risks associated with equine activities and agree to release, indemnify, and hold harmless EMHA, its officers, directors, volunteers, and agents from any and all claims, damages, or liabilities arising out of or related to your participation.
Equine Activity Liability Warning: WARNING: Under Michigan law, an equine professional or equine activity sponsor is not liable for an injury to or the death of a participant in an equine activity resulting from an inherent risk of the equine activity, except as provided by law. See the Michigan Equine Activity Liability Act, MCL 691.1661–691.1667.
Acknowledgment of Risks: I understand that equine activities involve inherent and other risks that may result in property damage, injury, or death. These risks include, but are not limited to, a horse’s unpredictable behavior; falling or being thrown; collision with people, animals, objects, or vehicles; equipment failure; uneven or unsafe terrain; weather; and the acts or omissions of other participants. I understand that horses may react unpredictably to people, animals, sounds, movements, objects, weather, insects, or other conditions. I also understand that equine activities may involve exposure to infectious diseases affecting people or animals. I voluntarily choose to participate and assume the risks described above, including risks that are inherent in equine activities, to the extent permitted by law.
Release: To the fullest extent permitted by Michigan law, I release and agree not to sue **Eastern Michigan Horseman’s Association (EMHA)** and its directors, officers, employees, volunteers, event organizers, agents, sponsors, and the owners or operators of the event premises (collectively, the “Released Parties”) for claims for injury, death, or property damage arising from my participation in the event, **including claims alleging ordinary negligence**, except to the extent a claim cannot legally be released.
Participant Responsibilities: I agree to follow event rules and instructions, use appropriate safety equipment, and conduct myself safely. I will promptly notify event personnel of any unsafe condition, injury, illness, or concern. I understand that EMHA may refuse or end my participation if it determines that participation is unsafe.
Horse and Property: I am responsible for my horse and property and for ensuring that my horse is suitably trained, controlled, and equipped for the activity. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I agree to be responsible for claims or damage caused by my horse or my conduct, except to the extent caused by the negligence or wrongful conduct of a Released Party.
Medical Authorization: If I am injured or become ill and cannot make decisions, I authorize event personnel to seek emergency assistance for me. I understand that I am responsible for resulting medical costs.
Minors: I am the parent or legal guardian of the minor named above. I consent to the minor’s participation and acknowledge the risks described in this form. I agree to the release and other terms **on my own behalf**, to the extent permitted by law. I understand that the enforceability of any release of a minor’s own claims may be subject to Michigan law.
Acknowledgment and Signature: I have read this form, understand it, and sign it voluntarily. I understand that it affects legal rights and that I may consult an attorney before signing.
Furthermore, please be aware that this is a public space and/or event where photography and videography may be conducted by authorized personnel, as well as private photographers and attendees. EMHA cannot guarantee that your likeness will not be captured in photographs or video recordings taken during the event.
By attending, you acknowledge and consent to the potential use of images or recordings that may include your likeness for promotional, educational, or outreach purposes by EMHA.
The Eastern Michigan Horseman's Association and show hosts will not accept responsibility for the loss of, damage to, or injury to any exhibitor, any equine exhibited, or the possessions of any exhibitor—whether the result of accident or any other cause. It is distinctly understood that every equine at these shows is in the care, custody, and control of its owner, handler, or rider for the entire time the equine is on the premises. Applications are accepted only under these conditions.
By clicking "Submit," I/We agree to abide by all of the Association’s rules and decisions and acknowledge the Release & Waiver of Liability.