German Quarter Horse Association Celebrates 40

[source: AQHA.com]

In 2015, the German Quarter Horse Association (DQHA) celebrates its 40th anniversary. Founded November 22, 1975, by a few enthusiastic supporters of the American Quarter Horse, DQHA was the first western horse association in Germany – today it’s the biggest AQHA affiliate outside North America, with more than 6,800 members and 36,000 horses.

In those 40 years, a prospering show and breeding scene developed around the American Quarter Horse. Last year, there were 67 AQHA shows altogether, including eight AQHA all-Novice shows, five Versatility Ranch Horse competitions, two special events and, of course, DQHA’s main event – the DQHA International Championship and DQHA Futurity/Maturity with a total purse of €100,000. There are also a number of other activities promoting the American Quarter Horse not only in Germany, but all over Europe, including four regional futurities (total purse €25,000), 17 foal presentations, six horsemanship camps and three AQHA trail rides. 

DQHA’s Stallion Service Auction, which was founded in 1983, is one of the most successful breeding programs in Europe and has paid out more than €2.3 million altogether in the futurity/maturity. And of course, DQHA is busy promoting the American Quarter Horse during exhibitions and fairs with presentations and trail rides, too.

To learn more, visit www.dqha.de.