Next year, the AjPHA Youth World Games will become a truly international event as competition moves to Europe. This biennial event celebrates the future of the Paint Horse industry—our Youth members—in a fun, friendly slate of competition.The specific location and dates will be released soon.
All countries are invited to send a representative team to the Youth World Games to compete in showmanship, Western horsemanship, hunt-seat equitation and trail. Aside from the competition, several other exciting activities are planned for participating Youth team members; that includes involvement in an international AjPHA business meeting, an educational clinic, social events and day trips to surrounding areas. A more detailed itinerary and schedule will be released closer to the event.
“We are beyond excited about this expansion of the Youth World Games program,” APHA Director of Youth and Amateur Activities Christine Henry said. “This event offers Youth a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make friends across the globe, expand their worldview and gain unique horse industry experience, all while participating in some tough-but-friendly competition between countries.”
The deadline to enter a team is March 15, 2016. The team entry form and $100 entry fee must be received in the APHA office by that date.
Team Entry Form, due March 15
Each country may enter one team composed of four exhibitors, an alternate exhibitor and a coach. All team members must be AjPHA members in a good standing and citizens of the country they are representing. Teams are responsible for their own travel and accommodation costs.
In the event a country cannot assemble a full team, adjacent countries may combine to form a team.
View the complete 2016 Youth World Games Rules
The deadline to apply for the U.S team is December 31, 2015.
Applicants must be an AjPHA member in good standing and U.S. citizens. To apply, please send a completed application, a $45 application fee, a 2-3 minute video, two letters of recommendation and a headshot photograph. The members of Team USA will be announced in early January 2016. Apply to represent and ride for TEAM USA!
The 2016 AjPHA Youth World Games promises to be a truly unique and unforgettable experience for AjPHA members. For more information, contact APHA Director of Youth and Amateur Activities Christine Henry via email or call (817) 222-6436.
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About APHA
The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s second-largest equine breed association, registering more than a million horses in 59 nations and territories since it was founded in 1962. APHA creates and maintains programs that increase the value of American Paint Horses and enriches members’ experiences with their horses.