Person · 2004
NRHA Hall of Fame · Inducted 2004
Eleuterio Arcese
First European HOF Inductee · NRHA $2M+ Owner · Inducted 2004
Eleuterio Arcese of Verona, Italy, was the first European inducted into the NRHA Hall of Fame and one of the most consequential figures in the globalization of reining. Through two decades of promotion, clinics, and competition sponsorship, he helped build reining into a major international sport. His operation Arcese Quarter Horses USA, based in Weatherford, Texas, became NRHA's first Two Million Dollar Owner. He is still active at over 90 years old.
Career Highlights
- First European NRHA Hall of Famer — 20+ years promoting reining in Europe through the Italian Reining Horse Association, Italian QH Association, and international clinic hosting
- NRHA's first Two Million Dollar Owner — horses owned include 2007 Futurity Champion Wimpys Little Chic, 2009 Futurity Champion Gunnatrashya, and 2007 Derby Champion Walla Walla Whiz
- His children Leonardo, Paola, and Matteo carry the Arcese Quarter Horses USA legacy forward alongside him
- Verona, Italy / Weatherford, Texas — still active at 90+