Verschueren EAC Intermediate Non Pro Champion

25/07/2026 – 50 Combinations in total entered the $ 3000 added NRHA European Affiliate Championship (EAC) Intermediate Non Pro class concluded yesterday at Reining Center Meertenhof in Grathem (NLD). During the competition the leading position kept on changing but in the end it was Erik Verschueren (BEL) and the10-year-old stallion GP A Spook In Town [Hollywoodstinseltown] claiming the Champion title posting a 218,5. The Reserve Champion title was for Sophie Overdevest (NLD) and the 6-year-old gelding A Nite In Walla [Walla Walla Whiz], posting a 218,0. George Sternberg Allen (GBR) and the 10-year-old gelding Red Dirt Paleface [Pale Face Dunnit] finished 3rd posting a 216,5. This combination also claimed the title in the APHA Chrome Cash Intermediate Non Pro class, scheduled class in class. Reserve honors in this class were for Catharina Smetsers (BEL) and the 12-year-old mare Wimpy Special Gun [One Gun] posting a 215,0. Julia Giacalone (GER) and the 8-year-old gelding A Special Nite Ryder [Gunners Special Nite] placed 3 posting a 214,0.
Remarkable at this EAC is the big number of competitors wearing an ‘ear device’ during their performance, being coached from the side lines. Previously this was forbidden, but since 2025 there has been a rule change. Using the device is allowed except in category 2- and category 6 classes. These are age restricted classes like Futurity- Derby- and Maturity classes. Many people doubt if this rule change benefits the competition. In a fair competition a rider should actually perform on his own.

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Photo: Erik Verschueren and GP A Spook In Town. Photo: Claudia Dermois, NLD