National Reining Breeders Classic (NRBC): Ryan Humphrey Wins SmartPak Non Pro Futurity on Shots R Fired

Photos ©NRBC
Photos ©NRBC

The first week of the 2020 National Reining Breeders Classic culminated with the SmartPak Non Pro Futurity on Saturday. Longtime NRBC and Tulsa Reining Classic sponsor, SmartPak opted for the sponsorship of the $27,000 added SmartPak Non Pro Futurity in this transition year. It's a perfect fit for SmartPak at a time when the highly popular "Texas Hold-em" night could not be held due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Read MoreNational Reining Breeders Classic (NRBC): Ryan Humphrey Wins SmartPak Non Pro Futurity on Shots R Fired

National Reining Breeders Classic (NRBC): Fappani and Lengel Tie for Win of Hollywoodstinseltown Open Futurity

The pinnacle of futurity competition at the National Reining Breeders Classic was held Friday, August 28, with the incredible $61,000 added Hollywoodstinseltown Open Futurity. The 114-entry futurity featured top riders from all over, and when the last horse had left the arena, there was tie for the win. Abby Lengel and Andrea Fappani had both marked a 224. While they could have elected to run-off for the title, they decided to stay co-champions.
Fappani and Lengel weren't the only co-champions crowned, as Arno Honstetter and Kole Price tied for the Open Level 3 win, and Diego Gaona and Julie Roshelli posted identical scores to top the Open Level 1.

Read MoreNational Reining Breeders Classic (NRBC): Fappani and Lengel Tie for Win of Hollywoodstinseltown Open Futurity

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.

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

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.

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