APHA Youth World Games Postponed to 2021
PHJ release by: Irene Stamatelakys
APHA’s much-anticipated Youth World Games will be postponed to 2021 after the worldwide coronavirus crisis forced the European Paint Horse Championship’s cancelation. Teams from twelve countries had entered what was to be Germany’s second time hosting the Games. Now they’ll have an additional year to raise funds for the trip and to prepare for the competition.
The decision to cancel the show was based on several factors, most importantly the health and safety of exhibitors and their families and friends, as well as event staff, volunteers and spectators. Last year, “EuroPaint” was the No. 1 APHA-approved show in the world, attracting 1,481 entries, 283 horses and people from 15 different countries.
While Germany’s easing of restrictions made the event possible in theory, the on-going border closures and travel restrictions meant several teams would be forced to withdraw. At the same time, moving the show to a later date or alternative location was not an option.
The 2021 European Paint Horse Championship is tentatively scheduled to be held in Kreuth, Bavaria, Germany, in late summer. All teams already entered in the Games will automatically roll over to next year. Any team member in their final year as a Youth exhibitor will have their eligibility extended into 2021. Youth in this situation just need to maintain their AjPHA membership through 2021.
APHA would like to thank the Paint Horse owners in Europe who offered to lend their horses for the Youth World Games, as well as event sponsors Paint Horse Club Germany, Gut Mathesdof and Ellen Welten-Louwers.
APHA looks forward to hosting the Youth World Games in 2021. Please help us make this an unforgettable event for Paint Horse Youth coming from around the world. We are looking for class sponsors, prizes and awards, and support for the YWG Welcome Reception and Exhibitor Party. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities or make a donation, contact Director of Amateur & Youth Activities Megan McMullen- mmcmullen@apha.com.
