APHA’s Youth World Games, initially postponed due to the pandemic, will take place later this summer as a virtual competition on the association’s E-Shows platform from July 26–August 9.
- Originally planned for the 2020 European Paint Horse Championship in Germany―which was cancelled―and then rescheduled for the same event in 2021, current travel restrictions make it difficult for all teams to attend in person.
Why it matters: Given the international scope of the event, and because several participants will graduate to the Amateur division in 2022, the Youth World Games couldn’t be delayed any further.
Twelve teams are currently entered representing Australia, Austria, Canada, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Israel, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States.
- Other countries are welcome to enter a team before the July 14 deadline.
- Each team will find their own APHA-registered Paints for the competition. All Regular Registry and Solid Paint-bred horses are eligible as long as they have not won an APHA or AQHA world or reserve world championship in any class. Exhibitors are not required to own the horse they show.
- All five team members can enter one of the four classes: showmanship, Western horsemanship, hunt-seat equitation and ranch riding.
- Overall placings will be based on each team’s top four classes.
Results will be announced on August 27 during the live-streamed Nation’s Cup at the European Championship. Awards will be given through sixth place in each class with overall awards for the top five teams and Gist Silversmith award buckles for the top three.
Go deeper: Youth World Games
Questions? Contact Megan McMullen, APHA’s Director of Youth & Amateur Activities.
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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. APHA promotes, preserves and provides meaningful experiences with Paint Horses.