The National Hunter/Jumper Council of USA Equestrian is pleased to announce that the popular GPA helmet has been added to the list of ASTM/SEI certified riding helmets. Although the current model of GPA helmet worn by riders is made to ASTM standards, it is not certified by the SEI. "We have worked closely with Frantisi, Inc., who will be the United States distributor, to get the approved GPA helmet to the market," explained Joe Dotoli, Chairman of the NHJC Ad-Hoc Safety Helmet Committee. "Each approved helmet that comes on the market gives riders more choices in fit and style." The new GPA Model 4 is made with a Titanium strip within the shell.

GPA is the eighth company to offer ASTM/SEI approved riding helmets. The other seven are Aussie Rider, Charles Owens, Del Mar Helmets, International, Lexington, Polybid and Troxel. A complete list of ASTM/SEI certified helmets is on the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) website at www.seinet.org.

"We are very pleased to receive the news that the GPA is now certified by the SEI," explained Don Bassin of Frantisi, Inc. "The helmets will start shipping in the next two weeks, and we anticipate they will be available in tack stores in mid-December."

As of December 1, 2001, all junior riders at USA Equestrian recognized hunter/jumper competitions will be required to wear ASTM/SEI approved headgear. For more information, visit both the NHJC (www.nhjc.org) and USA Equestrian (www.equestrian.org) websites.