NRHA 2023 Professionals of the Year

Photos by NRHA Press Release
Photos by NRHA Press Release

In the spirit of honoring excellence and commitment within our vibrant community, the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) proudly presents the distinguished 2023 Professionals of the Year awards. Since its inception in 2012, these accolades have served as a beacon, spotlighting individuals who epitomize excellence as leaders of reining.

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NRHA News: Another Million for Spooks Gotta Whiz

With more than $24 million won by National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) competitors in 2023, stallions are reaching new million-dollar milestones rapidly. One of the stallions who left their mark last year is NRHA Hall of Famer Spooks Gotta Whiz. Not only did the stallion surpass the NRHA $7 Million Sire mark just two months after crossing the $6 million, but he was also the second-highest leading sire of 2023 (NRHA categories 1-12) with $2,285,709 earned by his offspring.

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Brian Bell & Crystalized Whizkey Win 2023 NRHA Open Futurity Championship

Photos NRHA by Carolyn Simancik
Photos NRHA by Carolyn Simancik

A raucous crowd was entertained by incredible runs in the Jim Norick Coliseum as the scores of the 2023 National Reining Horse Association Futurity MS Diamonds TX Level 4 Finals climbed higher and higher. The audience was confident that Brian Bell and Crystalized Whizkey would take the win with a 225.5, but if the sport has proven anything, it’s that it’s not over until it’s over.

Read MoreBrian Bell & Crystalized Whizkey Win 2023 NRHA Open Futurity Championship

Fappani Adds to an Outstanding Legacy After Being Named NRHA’s First Eight Million Dollar Rider and Newest Million Dollar Owner

Photo by NRHA Press Release/Waltenberry
Photo by NRHA Press Release/Waltenberry

It’s no secret the name Fappani is synonymous with greatness within the reining community. As the National Reining Horse Association’s (NRHA) all-time leading rider, Andrea Fappani continues to set the standard within the sport and shatter records. Recently, he stamped his name in the history books once again by becoming the first NRHA Eight Million Dollar Rider. In addition, he accomplished yet another rare feat by adding his name to the list of NRHA Million Dollar Owners.

Read MoreFappani Adds to an Outstanding Legacy After Being Named NRHA’s First Eight Million Dollar Rider and Newest Million Dollar Owner

Gabriel Borges & 007 Make History as Inaugural 100X Stakes Open Champions

Photos by 100X Reining Classic / Chelsea Schneider Media
Photos by 100X Reining Classic / Chelsea Schneider Media

From the very start of the afternoon, when the Diamond D Cowgirls mesmerized the crowd in the opening ceremonies and the first few riders in the pen marked high scores for stunning runs, the 100X Stakes Open Finals had all the hallmarks of a spectacular reining event, with the Champions of the four levels awarded an MS Diamonds TX custom-made Trophy Ring.

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Our Condolences – Chocolate Chic Olena 1993-2022

Photo by Waltenberry | NRHA
Photo by Waltenberry | NRHA

National Reining Horse Association Million Dollar Sire Chocolate Chic Olena was laid to rest on January 22.
The 29-year-old stallion, by Smart Chic Olena out of Jae Bar Felcia, left his mark on the industry. With his owner Carter M Smith, he finished third at the 1996 NRHA Futurity, then the pair came back the following year to win the NRHA Derby and Super Stakes. NRHA Professional Darren Stancik and NRHA Seven Million Dollar Rider Andrea Fappani also piloted the stallion to numerous titles. Those included an American Quarter Horse Association World Championship in Senior Reining, and four AQHA Reserve World Championships in Amateur and Junior Reining.

Read MoreOur Condolences – Chocolate Chic Olena 1993-2022

Luca Fappani and Anna Clausen Tie To Win The Run For A Million $50,000-added Non Pro Championship

Luca Fappani and Anna Clausen Tie To Win The Run For A Million $50,000-added Non Pro Championship

Day two of The Run For A Million presented by Teton Ridge showcased non pro riders with the $50,000 Added Non Pro Championships. After 67 riders slid, spun and circled their way through the South Point Arena, it was Luca Fappani riding Icecube and Anna Clausen aboard Smart Tinseltown who came out on top with a score of 221.5 tying to share the title and $30,179.

Read MoreLuca Fappani and Anna Clausen Tie To Win The Run For A Million $50,000-added Non Pro Championship