TIEC responds after equestrian accused of sexual misconduct

MILL SPRING—Tryon International Equestrian Center will not change its George Morris Arena’s name for now following Morris being accused of sexual misconduct involving a minor. 

TIEC named the centerpiece stadium after the Olympian and lifelong equestrian prior to the World Equestrian Games, held in Mill Spring in 2018. The arena is referred to as the Tryon Stadium. 

“We named the arena and rings at TIEC for families and individuals who provided foundational leadership for equestrian sport in the Tryon area,” TIEC Chief Operating Officer Sharon Decker told the Bulletin Monday. “At the present time, we are not making a change to the name of the arena, as George Morris appeals the decision.” 

Decker said TIEC in no way condones or turns a blind eye to abuse or inappropriate behavior at any level. 

“The initial decision does not intend to do so but rather, continues to acknowledge the role that George Morris had in bringing horse sport to our Carolinas’ region,” Decker said. 

Morris, 81, is one of the country’s top trainers. He was banned on Aug. 5 for life from the United States Equestrian Federation by the United States Center for SafeSport. Morris has appealed that decision and said he is deeply troubled by the findings regarding unsubstantiated charges that allegedly occurred between 1968 and 1972. 

Morris has said he devoted his life to equestrian sport and the development of future riders, coaches and Olympians and any allegations that suggest he has acted in ways that are harmful to any individual, the broader equestrian community and the sport that he loves dearly are false and hurtful. 

The USEF said it will enforce the ban on Morris and said the Center investigated the allegations and found them credible. 

Morris won a silver medal in show jumping at the 1960 Olympics in Rome and has since coached Olympic equestrian teams.