The second European Championship became a truly unforgettable experience for many visitors and participants, thanks to its breathtaking setting in St. Moritz. The journey to the venue, via the stunning Julier Pass, left a lasting impression—not just on the riders, but on supporters from all six participating nations. One of the unique challenges of the event was acclimatising the horses to the altitude. At the time, the North American Trail Ride Conference—considered one of the most experienced competition organisers—recommended a three-day acclimatisation period for the horses.
With brilliant sunshine and the European anthem ringing through the air, the championship opened on Saturday with the dressage tests. Many horses were not sufficiently prepared and struggled to respond to their riders’ aids. Judges speculated that the high number of participants in this test was likely due to riders keen to earn valuable points for both the individual and national rankings.
The Icelandic team earned great respect from other nations, thanks to their significant progress since the 1970 championship in Aegidienberg GER.
The consistency of the judges’ scores in the individual Tölt competition was a wonderful testament to the fact that correct presentation and clear rhythm were top priorities in the judging criteria. One of the most eagerly awaited pairs, Bruno Podlech and his horse Stjarni, did not disappoint. Their performance was both beautiful and spectacular, much to the delight of the crowd.
Another major highlight took place on Saturday afternoon with the cross-country ride over the revamped Olympic military track. The 3.8 km course included ten obstacles, which posed little difficulty for well-trained, talented cross-country horses.
Sunday morning began with the four- and fivegait tests, which revealed that there was still plenty of room for improvement among the competitors.
The grand finale of the 2nd European Championship in the Swiss Alps came on Sunday afternoon with the knockout rounds of the Tölt competitions. The brilliance and expressive movement of the top Tölt horses had the crowd on its feet, cheering and clapping with excitement. Just as eagerly anticipated were the thrilling—and famously daring—pace races.
Organising Committee, European Championship 1972
Max Indermaur, Ewald Isenbügel, Alois and Hans Tschümperlin, Jean-Claude Dysli, Werner Beuttner, Franz Morger, Heini Schneider, Andre de Reynier, Martin Kälin, Simone Huggenberger (Rubli), Jörg Auer
Text and Pictures:50 Jahre IPVCH Chronik