The snow still might be swirling, and your flashy Paint might be hidden under multiple blankets, but now’s the time to get ready for the 2019 show season. If you’re lucky enough to live in Europe, the best opportunity to learn and prepare is APHA horseIQTM: Scandinavia, coming to Brande, Denmark, April 5, 6 and 7.
Jointly sponsored by APHA and Paint Horse Club Denmark, this unique event takes horseIQ, the popular online learning platform, and brings it to life. This weekend program is an innovative, hands-on learning experience combining classroom theory and small-group coaching specifically tailored to three audiences: exhibitors, judges and judge applicants, and show managers and show secretaries.
Each day focuses on three classes. During the morning’s classroom session, participants will learn what today’s judges are looking for in these events. Exhibitors, judges and future judge applicants will deepen their understanding of the judging process and learn how to improve their placings through an active and engaging format.
At the same time, show managers and secretaries will prepare to run a micro-show with these classes under the guidance of APHA staff. It will be a hands-on learning opportunity with a popular software solution, Horse Show for Windows by FunnWare Development, LTD.
In the afternoon, participants will have a chance to apply what they learned that morning. Exhibitors will practice and show with coaching and feedback. Judges and applicants will prepare and then place each class, comparing their cards with official results. Show managers and secretaries will manage the show from start to finish, from verifying entries to submitting results, with APHA staff on hand to provide support.
The event schedule includes longe line, Western pleasure, ranch pleasure, showmanship, Western horsemanship, ranch riding, in-hand trail, trail and ranch trail. Amateurs, Youth and Open exhibitors and all breeds are welcome. Because of the event’s unique format APHA points will not be awarded, but it’s a great opportunity to try a new class without the cost or pressure of a traditional show.
In addition, APHA horseIQ: Scandinavia fulfills the continuing education requirement for APHA Professional Horsemen seeking to renew their credentials. The next opportunity to recertify in Europe is the APHA European Education Summit, tentatively scheduled for spring 2020.
“‘Excited’ doesn’t even begin to describe how we feel about APHA horseIQ: Scandinavia,” said Irene Stamatelakys, director of international membership. “It’s a completely new concept that resulted from feedback we’ve received from APHA members.
“I don’t think there’s anything quite like this, combining classroom and clinic. What you learn in the morning, you can apply in the afternoon. Exhibitors get to show and maybe try out a new event. Judge applicants can practice live judging and compare their placings with the pros. New show managers and secretaries can gain real experience without the pressure of an actual show. It will be fun and educational for everyone.”
APHA horseIQ: Scandinavia is just one example of the association’s efforts to offer more educational opportunities that mesh with member needs and interests. Other events include the European Education Summit, the Oceania Education Summit, and various clinics across the globe, from Belgium to Uruguay.
“Education is key to growing the international market,” Irene said. “Today it represents more than 10 percent of our total membership. We are continually working to make it grow through engaging educational experiences and opportunities. The more people learn about horsemanship, the more they enjoy their horses and want to be part of the Paint Horse family.”
Participants are encouraged to register early as spaces are limited, especially for those wishing to bring a horse. For complete details and to register for APHA horseIQ: Scandinavia, visit Paint Horse Club Denmark’s website.
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About APHA
The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s second-largest international equine breed association, registering more than a million horses in 59 nations and territories since it was founded in 1962. APHA’s mission is to inspire, nurture, promote and provide meaningful experiences to generations interested in preserving the versatile Paint Horse.