Horse Illustrated Magazine

Europe’s most important American Quarter Horse show celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. The European Championship of American Quarter Horses takes place August 15-23 in Kreuth, Germany. The championship includes four AQHA shows plus the Nations Cup.

The major star of this event, which attracts about 400 horses from 18 nations each year, is the American Quarter Horse. In Kreuth, they prove their unique versatility and great mind in various disciplines such as halter, western pleasure, reining, cutting and working cow horse. Nowhere in Europe will you find such a large number of top quality American Quarter Horses in so many different disciplines. The European Championship truly celebrates America’s Horse.

There are two go-rounds plus a final for the European Champion titles, with the exception of the halter and cattle classes. There will be only go-rounds and no finals for these classes.

The halter and cattle classes are scheduled for the first weekend (August 15-16). The go-rounds in the other disciplines will be Monday through Thursday with the finals beginning Friday, August 21.

A second Nations Cup will take place during the second weekend with teams from various European countries competing in several disciplines. This event is free for spectators.

The classes will be judged by six international judges: Joe Carter, Lyle Jackson, Sylvia Katschker, Ricky Bordignon, Clay Macleod and Robin Frid. To view the schedule, visit http://www.aqha.com/showing/shows/european-championships.html or www.ecqh.eu.