National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Reinstates 2020 World Championships

In a year of unprecedented challenges and seemingly endless unknowns, associations have struggled with difficult choices. Key among them has been making decisions that are best for the most members. The National Reining Horse Association, like other equine organizations, has waded through difficult waters, very aware of the reality that what benefits one member can negatively impact another. The recent move of the NRHA Board of Directors to reinstate the NRHA World Championship races and titles for 2020 is a perfect example. In June, the championships were suspended because of how the COVID-19 pandemic had reduced the amount of shows, but feedback from members resulted in reconsideration of the issue.

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Jason Vanlandingham and A Vintage Smoke Win Level 4 Open Championship at 2020 NRHA Derby Presented by Markel

A Vintage Smoke blew into the Jim Norick Coliseum during the Level 4 Open Finals of the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Derby presented by Markel. At the reins was his trainer, Jason Vanlandingham. The newly crowned NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider and the flashy black stallion had already made their mark on the reining industry by winning two of the three largest reining events: the 2018 NRHA Futurity and the 2019 National Reining Breeders Classic (NRBC). The only accolade missing from A Vintage Smoke’s resume? An NRHA Derby presented by Markel Championship.

Read MoreJason Vanlandingham and A Vintage Smoke Win Level 4 Open Championship at 2020 NRHA Derby Presented by Markel

Indy Roper Wins Level 4 Non Pro Championship on Spooks Show Time at NRHA Derby Presented by Markel

Photo by NRHA
Photo by NRHA

Indy Roper was all smiles as she exited the Jim Norick Coliseum Arena on Friday evening, June 19, after her first run in the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Derby presented by Markel Non Pro Finals.

She knew her performance on Spooks Show Time was good, and when the score, a 222.5, was announced, the cheers were resounding. However, Roper had drawn number 2 in the Level 4 Non Pro Finals, meaning she had to sweat through 31 additional runs before she was declared the victor.

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NRCHA Derby Champions Are Crowned in Scottsdale, Arizona

A thrilling day of reined cow horse action on Saturday, June 13, wrapped up the main event at the National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) Jack and Phoebe Cooke Memorial Derby. Open and non pro riders took center stage at the WestWorld of Scottsdale in sunny Arizona. The top combined score rode away with the prestigious NRCHA Derby Champion title and a share of more than $330,000.

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The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Suspends Race for World Championships

Photo © Tom Hautmann Photography
Photo © Tom Hautmann Photography

In a unanimous decision, the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Board of Directors has suspended the 2020 NRHA World Title race.
Historically, NRHA World Titles, awarded in open, non pro, and youth divisions, are coveted recognition for horses and riders. The international race allows aged reining horses a chance in the spotlight and highlights reiners from around the globe.

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National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Derby Presented by Markel Insurance: Get Ready to Derby!

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Executive Committee and Board are pleased to announce that the 2020 NRHA Derby Presented by Markel looks to be on track to take place at the Oklahoma City at State Fair Park June 13–21.

 It’s the good news reiners have been looking for after the long hiatus from the show pen. The green light to proceed follows the announcement on May 14, 2020, of Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt’s proclamation regarding the city’s COVID-19 regulations. With this announcement, the NRHA Derby Presented by Markel's entry deadline has been extended to May 20, the same deadline date for the stabling reservations. Ancillary entries are still due on June 1.

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2020 The Run for a Million is Going to Run! Along with Paramount Network Television Series, The Last Cowboy


2020 The Run for a Million, along with Paramount Network television series,The Last Cowboy, to take place. “Taylor (Sheridan) and I understand how important it is to get our industry kick started again. Our trainers have lost horses in training, had to lay off help, and are looking at a grim future if we do not get back to showing horses,” stated Amanda Brumley with grave concern. “My heart is breaking for these people who rely on events like this to make a living. The trickle down affect is astronomic, not just for trainers, show staff, vendors, venues, hotels, restaurants. I could go on and on. We absolutely must get back to work.” The event has also added a $100,000 Open Cow Horse Bridle Invitational presented by DT Horses which includes fifteen of the top Open Riders from the National Reined Cow Horse Association. This performance takes place Friday evening, July 31.

Read More2020 The Run for a Million is Going to Run! Along with Paramount Network Television Series, The Last Cowboy