Reining Horse Magazine April Edition

REINING HORSE CRAIG SCHMERSAL HORSEMAN OF THE YEAR / NRHA

Brian Dygert & Jennifer Bexley

WESTWORLD WINS NATIONAL AWARD SPONSORED BY

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NRHA Professionals of the Year Honored for 2019

Craig Schmersal Horseman of the Year

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Abby Mixon

Horsewoman of the Year

Horseman of the Year—Craig Schmersal A staple in the industry since competing as a youth member, Craig Schmersal hasn’t missed the NRHA Futurity finals since 1997. His most recent major win came when he was crowned the 2019 Run for a Million co-champion. The NRHA Four Million Dollar rider not only specializes in training, showing, and selling futurity and derby horses, but also breeds prospects that regularly become champions in the arena. He's trained and shown multiple NRHA Futurity and Derby winners, including winning the 2017 NRHA Futurity on his homegrown mare Face Becky Hanson Horsewoman of the Year—Abby Mixon To date, she’s earned more than $391,480 in NRHA Lifetime Earnings and has competed and been a finalist at major events including the NRHA Futurity and NRHA Derby. In 2019, she brought three horses to the NRHA Futurity, making the NRHA Level 4 Open Semifinals on all three and advancing two of them to the NRHA Level 3 Open Futurity Finals. As a top-level female professional, Mixon strives to create more opportunities for women with a desire to compete in the reining industry and promote the sport in any way she can.

Non Pro Coach of the Year—Jared Leclair Jared Leclair began working for Steve Simon at Quarter Mount Farm, home of NRHA Million Dollar Sire Custom Crome, in Paxton, Massachusetts, in 2003. After a year of gaining valuable experience, Leclair was offered an assistant trainer position with NRHA Three Million Dollar Rider, Million Dollar Owner, and Hall of Famer Tim McQuay in Tioga, Texas.

Youth Coach of the Year—Mark Guynn Guynn actively participates in the Rocky Mountain Quarter Horse Association and is deeply involved in their youth program. Guynn is a past president of the Rocky Mountain Reining Horse Association and remains an active member in his local affiliate. He holds AQHA, NRHA, and NRCHA judge’s cards.

Up-and-Coming Professional of the Year—Cade McCutcheon McCutcheon became the youngest U.S. athlete to represent reining at the World Equestrian Games (WEG) on the 2018 U.S. Reining team. McCutcheon helped Team USA clinch the gold during WEG by marking a 229 on Custom Made Gun. The score remained untouched by fellow NRHA Professionals, solidifying McCutcheon’s plan to join his teammates as an NRHA Professional the following year.

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PHOTOS: BEE SILVA

EARS UP

WestWorld of Scottsdale

is the 2020 Facility of the Year

Brian Dygert WestWorld General Manager with Jennifer Bexley, Chairman of the Board Of Directors for the League of Agricultural & Equine Centers

The League of Agricultural & Equine Centers (LAEC) presented WestWorld of Scottsdale with the 2020 Facility of the Year Award at its annual symposium.

WestWorld General Manager Brian Dygert was onhand at The League Symposium to accept the award on behalf of his facility. “To be recognized by your peers is big,” Dygert commented. “I am proud to be a part of a facility, which has been recognized at the national level.” Dygert has served as the General Manager of WestWorld for 12 years and he has been involved with the League since its inception 22 years ago. “My career is built upon my lifestyle and passion,” he said. “I grew up riding Quarter Horses and doing reining. I still have my horse in my backyard, and hopefully always will.

I’ve worn a lot of hats, which has given me a broad understanding of facility management. I’ve been a trainer, breeder, youth rider, competitor, and event producer. I’ve also held organizational roles and been involved with the governance of the equestrian sport.”

Receiving the Facility of the Year Award while in North Carolina was especially meaningful for Dygert who grew his roots there. “I helped build the Senator Bob Martin Eastern Ag. Center in Williamson when I was younger,” Dygert said. “This is a proud, fullcircle moment right now to be back in North Carolina accepting this award. I helped found The League over 20 years ago and today I stay involved even though I am no longer part of the board.”

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“This feels so purposeful and makes all of our hard work even more worthwhile.” Dygert credits his core team at WestWorld for their relentless dedication to the facility as well as city elected continues to invest capital in our facility because they understand how it drives the tourism industry.”

The 386-acre facility, located at the base of the McDowell Mountains, brings nearly one million people to the city of Scottsdale on an annual basis. “In 2019, there were over 900 thousand people who came through our facility,” Dygert said. “We hosted 112 events spread across 52 weeks. Our arena is climate controlled, which allows us to have events all-year regardless of weather. We are also in a unique location that understands the tourism industry.”The facility encompasses the ability to entertain nearly any event from ‘A’-rated horse shows to auto auctions, and even concerts. Highlighted events at WestWorld include the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction, Arizona Quarter Horse Association Shows, Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, International Motorcycle Show, Good Guys Car Show, and the International Sportsmen's Expo.

WestWorld is eager to continue innovating into the future. “We always want to do more,” Dygert added.

“Over the 35-year existence of the facility, it has always tried to stay current and relevant in an ever-changing industry, which I believe has made it successful. The next improvement we are looking into is with our technology. We hope to improve our lighting system and fiberoptic data network to create seamless live streaming during events.”The League looks forward to seeing what the future brings for WestWorld, and the industry as whole.

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Elementa and IRHA Team Up to Host the NRHA European Futurity Cremona, 03.11.2020 — Provided by Simona Diale/IHP — Thanks to the new-born partnership between the Italian Reining Horse Association (IRHA) and Maria Cecilia Fiorucci’s Elementa, the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) European Executive Board voted unanimously to run the NRHA European Futurity concurrently with the IRHA/IRHBA/Arcese Futurity & Italian Championship Finals in Cremona on November 20-28.

Due to the spreading of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Northern Italy, particularly in Cremona where the 2020 NRHA European Futurity was to be held, last month the NRHA European Executive Board decided to postpone the show. In an effort to ensure that the event’s rescheduling was handled efficiently, the European Executive Board reviewed potential dates and venues. Roberto Cuoghi, president of the European Council and IRHA, sealed the deal — approved unanimously by the Board — to host the European Futurity in Cremona during the IRHA/IRHBA/Arcese Futurity & Elementa Italian Championship finals thanks to Elementa’s generous 200.000euro sponsorship for the Euro Futurity. On top of the NRHA Nomination Program money (200.000euro subject to change in nominations), the total added money rises to 400.000euro. “In this very difficult situation we are all facing, I took it upon myself to personally visit with Cecilia [Fiorucci] focusing on what is best for our NRHA members and our sport,” said NRHA Hall of Fame Inductee Cuoghi.

“Our passion is what moves us and this is the result of our passion. I would like to thank NRHA and our European Board for their trust and of course Cecilia for investing in our industry and our programs.” Fiorucci’s main goal has always been that of promoting the 4-year-old futurities and this is the perfect transition toward the Elementa Masters Circuit, added Cuoghi. The European Futurity will run concurrently with the IRHA 4-year-old Futurity [details to be determined].

This year Elementa will also be the presenting sponsor of the 150.000euro-added IRHA Italian Championship finals. By hosting the NRHA European Futurity, the 2020 IRHA/IRHBA/Arcese Futurity [which includes the 250.000euro-added 3-year-old Futurity] will once again make the headlines by offering a total purse of 800.000euros.

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PHOTO BY BEE SILVA

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NRHA ReinerSuite™ Revolutionizes Member Experience For Immediate Release – February 26, 2020 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is proud to present ReinerSuite™: advanced, online member services. Developed with The Jockey Club Technology Services, this web-based software is the highly anticipated next step in innovation for the reining horse industry.

ReinerSuite puts members at the reins for accessing information and conducting business. They can access reports, apply for competition licenses, purchase memberships, and print new membership cards. These are just a few of the offerings, and ReinerSuite will continue to expand its capabilities in future phases of development.

“This elevates NRHA’s technology to the forefront of the Western disciplines,” said Mike Hancock, NRHA President. “Our board of directors has been visionary in its support to develop a system that will transform our recordkeeping and member services for years to come.”

ReinerSuite provides quick results coupled with accuracy and efficiency. NRHA members can access their official information from anywhere they have access to the internet: at the barn, in the saddle, on an airplane, and at the show office.

The online platform gives members 24/7 access to their records, allowing the opportunity to conduct many transactions outside traditional business hours.

“ReinerSuite combines about five different programs that we use in the office to conduct member business into a streamlined package that is easier for staff and members to use,” said Gary Carpenter, NRHA Commissioner.

This new program provides convenience, accuracy, and efficiency. To register initially, each member needs a personal email address and their NRHA Member ID and PIN. Once registered, members have immediate access to their NRHA information.

For more information about ReinerSuite and to get registered, visit nrha.com/reinersuite.

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EARS UP

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PHOTOS BY CAM ESSICK

NRHA Winter Meeting Recap For Immediate Release – March 3, 2020 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) hosted its annual winter meeting in Denton, Texas, February 5–8, 2020. NRHA committees met to discuss plans for 2020 and beyond for the sport.

“The NRHA Board and the committees continue to produce good results for NRHA,” said NRHA President Mike Hancock. “Groundbreaking news about the added money for the 2020 NRHA Open and Non Pro Futurities along with the Adequan® North American Affiliate Championships was announced by a new task force. In addition, the judges’ ranking system was presented. This is a result of many years of hard work by several people. It’s amazing what can be accomplished when we all work together.”

Aged Events

The Aged Events Committee reviewed the 2021 rule change proposals and provided its official feedback for the NRHA Board. The committee discussed the 2019 NRHA Futurity and NRHA Derby presented by Markel, including improvements the management team will implement in 2020, which include, but are not limited to, cleaning up traffic in the super barn, managing dogs on the grounds, freestyle performance selection, drags during the go rounds, and the addition of a third steward at each major event. The committee also reviewed the schedules for the 2020 events, allowing the events management team time to work with the Futurity schedule in terms of fluidity. The group covered the Novice Horse Derby conditions and payout structure, recommending the NRHA Board approve the addition of the Novice Horse Open Level (L) 3 and Non Pro L3 to the 2020 NRHA 24

Derby. Also, they’ll allow Prime Time Open to include L4 riders at both the NRHA Futurity and NRHA Derby.

Eligibility The Eligibility Committee met in conjunction with the Non Pro Committee. They discussed, in detail, amateur conditions and recommended their proposed changes to the Executive Committee. The committee also considered the Run for a Million, recommending the NRHA Board place the event in a category they deem appropriate once they receive the official conditions. Last year, the Run for a Million fell in the newly created Category 13.

Judges Discussions in the Judges Committee meeting began with plans to develop educational videos about specific penalties that may occur and how they are assessed.

These videos will be on the NRHA website and social media platforms. The group discussed the official monthly schedule of shows from which the Judges Committee would review videos in conjunction with the chair judges for each event. This review system is an educational tool for the live judges to evaluate themselves and their scores against those of the committee.

Professionals The Professionals Committee focused much of its discussion on the importance of the 2020 Code of Ethics and how to streamline communication among the committee, NRHA Professionals, and the affiliates. The committee also shared that professionals who are reported to have violated the code of ethics will be brought to the attention of a subcommittee and the NRHA Executive Committee may approve that a violation letter be sent to them. This letter will then become part of their permanent file. The committee also made recommendations for the NRHA Board for which patterns to use at the 2020 NRHA Derby presented by Markel.

Non Pro

Youth

The newly created amateur division and the 2020 Run for a Million were discussed during the Non Pro Committee meeting. The group emphasized ways to bring more people to the sport of reining, including opportunities for youth to compete on horses not owned by themselves or their family as a means to accomplish that goal. Programs like Interscholastic Equestrian Association, Intercollegiate Horse Show Association, and the National Collegiate Equestrian Association were identified as potential areas for outreach. The committee also reviewed current non pro conditions and if they should be adapted to allow professional English trainers to show in the non pro, and if so, what levels might be appropriate. The committee discussed the NRHA Non Pro Futurity Consolation structure in regard to the needs of the horses and exhibitors competing at the event.

The Youth Committee focused its attention on NRHyA delegates. Primarily, the committee brainstormed ways to enhance the delegate experience and pique interest for more youth to get involved in the program. The committee also discussed ways to entice youth to enter USA Reining and FEI Young Riders classes. The new structure of these classes makes them affordable for show management and participants. The committee also looked into changing the election process for the NRHyA officers.

Stewards The Stewards Committee discussed developing Emergency Preparedness Guidelines to assist NRHA-approved events in avoiding equine disease outbreaks and responding in the event of a natural disaster. The group also discussed increasing information and education provided to NRHA members about the steward’s program, including the scope of the work and ways stewards can assist members. To help stewards expand skills and knowledge, all NRHA stewards will be encouraged to take online courses in emergency procedures, Safe Sport, etc.

The group also explored a plan to increase opportunities for international steward certification.

Wrap-Up Along with the committee discussions, several other monumental changes were implemented during the 2020 winter meeting. A task force increased the purse for the NRHA Futurity and Adequan® North American Affiliate Championships (NAAC) in the coming years. The group will also work to improve the format of the event itself.

Get the details here.

NRHA will now require North American Affiliate Regional Championships (ARCs) to host the 10 & Under Short Stirrup class with awards provided by NRHA. More information on this topic will be available soon.

The NRHA Board moved forward with establishing an Oceana Council for the Oceana Region, which currently consists of Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, and Japan.

A new rating system for judges will have a trial run in 2020, and in the coming months, a show standards committee will be formed. More details will be available at a later time.

The next Board of Directors meeting will be April 27­–28, 2020, at NRHA headquarters in Oklahoma City.

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Kyle Zanetti Trailers New Sponsor For Immediate Release – March 4, 2020 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is proud to welcome Kyle Zanetti Trailers of Weatherford, Texas, as an NRHA Corporate Partner. The family-owned trailer manufacturing and repair company provides high-quality products and top-notch customer service to the equine industry.

Zanetti joins the association in 2020 as the official trailer of NRHA. They will sponsor the trailers awarded during the NRHA Derby and NRHA Futurity. Both the Level 4 (L4) Non Pro and Open champions will drive away with their very own Kyle Zanetti Trailer to use for 365 days.

With over 25 years of experience, Zanetti specializes in all things trailers: repairs, consignments, rebuilds, and custom manufacturing. Customers can rest assured they are driving away with a superior product from Zanetti. As a one-stop-shop, there is no need to go anywhere but Zanetti.

“It’s an honor and privilege to partner with a great association such as NRHA,” said owner and founder Kyle Zanetti. “We’re committed to providing a safe mode of transportation for these amazing equine athletes. Whether we build a custom trailer, customize your current trailer, or keep up with your routine maintenance, Kyle Zanetti Trailers is your one-stop trailer shop.”

This sponsorship arrives just in time for 2020 NRHA Derby presented by Markel as competitors get excited about the Oklahoma City event coming up in June. Horse-andrider combinations from across the nation, and around the globe, will vie for the right to use the elite trailers provided by Kyle Zanetti and his family.

“Kyle Zanetti Trailers is in the business of manufacturing the best custom trailers within the reining industry,” said Sammi Miller, senior director of corporate relations & communications at NRHA. Developing a partnership with a dedicated industry builder like Kyle Zanetti Trailers is a positive move for NRHA events and our members.”

Stop by the Kyle Zanetti Trailers shop in Weatherford, Texas, to make your trailer dreams a reality.

Learn more about Zanetti by visiting their website at kylezanettitrailers.com.

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Time to Change Traditional Ways of Feeding Your Horse There are a lot of choices when feeding Back to Basics horses. Chances are that if 100 horse feedChange is hard. To feel confident enough to break away from ers were lined up, there would also be 100 traditional feeding practices, it is necessary to understand how the digestive tract of the horse is specifically designed to operate on a different ways to feed horses. But the best forage-only diet. The horse has evolved as a grazing animal with way to fuel a horse may also be the most a specialized gastrointestinal tract that thrives on a diet containing high levels of plant fiber available 24 hours a day. The general disimple. This is certainly the case for the gestive tract is analogous to other mammals. The foregut (mouth, easy-keeping retirement horse maintained esophagus, stomach and small intestine) is responsible for enzymatic digestion. Most sugar, starch, protein and fat digestion, as on pasture, but research supports that this well as fat-soluble vitamins (A,D, E and K), calcium and phosphoalso holds true for high performance athletes rus absorption, takes place in the foregut, primarily in the small intestine. But there is a significant portion of the equine digestive across the spectrum of the equine industry.

Tradition dictates that the modern domesticated horse needs some longstem fiber source, such as hay for bulk, but that the majority of the “real nutrition” must come from grains, fortified concentrates or complete feeds. However, we now know that the real question is what, if anything, the forage is lacking that needs to be balanced for optimal wellness. Forage as the foundation, or entirety, of the diet is the healthiest feeding choice for horses.

Implementing a Forage-Based Diet 1 Exhaust your forage first — pasture & quality grass hay 2 Use higher-energy forages, such as alfalfa or haylage 3 Balance with a vitamin and mineral supplement

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tract that makes it uniquely able to thrive on a continuous highfiber diet: the hindgut.

The hindgut consists of the cecum, large colon and small colon and makes up over 60% of the total digestive tract, with a capability of holding over 120 quarts of digestive materials. Horses are categorized as hindgut fermenters, meaning that microbial action within the hindgut breaks down the fibers of plant material to be used by the horse for energy and to extract micronutrients or create others, such as the B-vitamins and vitamin K. The hindgut, specifically the cecum and large colon, relies on a beneficial microbial population to ferment and break down high-fiber feed substrates for metabolism. Whereas passage of digesta through the small intestine takes about 60-90 minutes, microbial fermentation is a much slower process. The large size and structure of the cecum and large colon is designed for slow passage of digesta to allow time for the microbes to break down fibrous plant material.

Food may take from 36 to 72 hours to pass through the hindgut.

Interestingly, the entrance and exit of the cecum are both located at the top of the organ. There must remain enough fibrous fill in the cecum to push digesta out into the large colon for the next stage of digestion. Deprived of the bulk from continuous forage, the many loops of the intestines are more likely to twist or impact.

Horses need to be digesting fibrous feeds continually for hindgut health. Since all-day pasture grazing is not always an option, taking steps to allow constant access to forage while penned or stalled can be incredibly beneficial to the horse’s overall health and, in particular, the health of the digestive tract.

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2020 NRHA Futurity Champion to Win a Quarter Million

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) made the landmark announcement today that the 2020 NRHA Futurity champion will receive a quarter of a million dollars!

The news came during the association’s Annual General Meeting and was accompanied by the additional announcement that the NRHA Non Pro Futurity Champion will receive $60,000, and added money for the Adequan® North American Affiliate Championship (NAAC) will be doubled.

The stunning hat-trick announcement came after a special task force formed and met during the Annual NRHA Winter Meeting in Denton, Texas, to discuss a pathway to increasing the payout at the NRHA Futurity, beginning with the 2020 event. Chaired by NRHA Vice President Rick Clark, the task force was created to answer a challenge that he, along with NRHA Past President Frank Costantini and former NRHA Board Member Doug Carpenter, had given the board to begin to grow the NRHA Futurity winners’ rewards.

fund all levels of the event. Since then, the first-place check for the Level 4 Open Champion had increased to $150,000.

The named increases are, according to the task force, based on independent funds raised from individuals interested in boosting the industry and shining a brighter light on the NRHA Futurity. Those funds came from five-year support commitments from Tim Anderson and Kim Niven, John and Nancy Tague, Rick Clark, Bob Santagata, Craig and Ginger Schmersal, Mark Blake, Joao Marcos, and Mike Hancock, and are, in the words of NRHA President Mike Hancock, a starting place in the goal of establishing the NRHA Futurity and Adequan® NAAC as one of the most prestigious events in the horse world. It has certainly done that, boosting the NRHA Futurity winner’s payment to exceed those of all other futurities in the Western performance horse industry.

“This was spontaneous combustion in the best way,” said NRHA Commissioner Gary Carpenter. “It came together because the right people were in the right place at the right time. So many factors around the world influenced this development. We all recognize that the horses bred for the NRHA Futurity will become the horses of the future for all levels of competition. The increased purse in both the Futurity and the Adequan® NAAC illustrates our commitment to these horses and the people who breed, own, train, and ride them.”

Serving on the task force along with Clark are John Tague, Mike Hancock, Mark Blake, Ginger Schmersal, Rosanne Sternberg, and Shane Brown.

Hancock agrees about the positive ripple effect of this evolution of the sport.

The NRHA Futurity has seen many significant milestones in its storied past. This included the move to a guaranteed $100,000 prize for the Open Futurity Winner in 1983 and the creation of the nomination program, which now helps

“This year’s quarter of a million is just the first step,” Hancock said. “This committee foresees additional support opportunities becoming available for this endeavor in the future. We don’t know where it is going to end yet, but we are excited for the future.”

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Jeans & Shirts Renews Partnership with NRHA For Immediate Release – February 28, 2020 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – CINCH Jeans & Shirts is returning as a Corporate Partner with the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) in 2020.

CINCH is a long-time supporter of the NRHA and its members.

An industry leader in work-ready denim, reining enthusiasts will be hard-pressed to find a brand more prevalent than CINCH in the industry. Producing both jeans and shirts for the Western way of life since 1996, CINCH brings high-quality products to the ranch and arena that harbor a strong work ethic.

For the last 23 years, CINCH and NRHA have gone hand in hand. The member-driven association and customer-centered company share common values when it comes to raising the standards on quality and service. The motto “Lead, Don’t Follow®.” speaks to the unique patterns commonly associated with CINCH, but is also synonymous with a fit and feel suitable for every aspect of ranch life.

“We are thrilled to be renewing our long-term partnership with NRHA,” said Jessica Wahlert, marketing manager for Miller International, the parent company of CINCH Jeans & Shirts. “This has become a premier partnership of ours over the years, and we are truly proud to be associated with NRHA. We plan to continue integrating our goals with NRHA’s to grow and support the industry that supports us.”

Not only has CINCH been an avid supporter of the association and various equine professionals, the company has also taken an interest in the National Reining Horse Youth Association (NRHyA), regional affiliates, and major reining events.

“NRHA’s continued partnership with Miller International will be celebrating 25 years soon,” said Sammi Miller, NRHA senior director of corporate relations & communications. “The amount of support shown by CINCH over the years for NRHA’s evolving programs only continues to grow. Our renewed partnership is an honor and a proud moment for NRHA.” Outfitting reiners since 1997, NRHA members and professionals regularly enter the arena wearing products from CINCH and its sister companies—Cruel Girl and Miller Ranch by CINCH. To find your next arena-ready shirt and jeans, visit cinchjeans.com.

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NRHA Welcomes Newest Affiliate:

SOUTH AFRICA

For Immediate Release – February 25, 2020 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) welcomed South Africa as the newest international affiliate this fall. Greg and Lizelle Garland, NRHA members from South Africa, toyed with the idea of starting an affiliate for about three years before diving in headfirst.

Officially recognized in July 2019, the South African affiliate hosted three shows in a span of just two months: the first in August and two more in October.

“Within three months of inception, we’ve had three shows; it’s been amazing,” Greg said. “We’re still small, with a limited number of members, but it’s definitely something that everyone is excited about, and we’re looking forward to growing.”

Historically, to begin the process of starting a new affiliate, 25 NRHA members had to support the undertaking—a daunting task for a country where reining-ready horses are extremely hard to come by.

“When some of the staff from NRHA came to visit us, we found out about a new rule that said we only needed 10 NRHA members to get started since we are a developing country,” Greg said.

That’s all Greg and Lizelle needed to kickstart the process. The Garlands carry the torch for reining in South Africa as they bring in clinicians and horses to generate interest in the sport.

“With the creation of the developing affiliate level, we were able to introduce reining at the grassroots level to countries that may not have been able to jump in with 25 members,” said Samantha Oldfield, director of competition & education and European liaison at NRHA. “This level gives them a chance to introduce the sport to potential members and to grow and build a strong base they can expand upon to their other affiliate levels.”

NRHA currently recognizes more than 90 associations representing 16 different affiliates around the globe. Competing in an affiliate is truly reining at the grassroots level.

To find an affiliate in your region and to learn more about the program, visit nrha.com/ affiliate.

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Cade McCutcheon Adds to NRHA Million Dollar Rider Dynasty

For Immediate Release – January 19, 2020 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is proud to officially congratulate NRHA Professional Cade McCutcheon for becoming an NRHA Million Dollar Rider.

At just 19 years old, McCutcheon is the third member of his immediate family to cross this milestone. His parents, Tom and Mandy McCutcheon, reached the milestone consecutively—Tom in 2006 and Mandy in 2007. In 2014 Mandy reached her second milestone, becoming an NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider.

Tim McQuay, McCutcheon’s grandfather, is an NRHA Three Million Dollar Rider as well as an NRHA Million Dollar Owner.

“It’s been a whirlwind; I never could’ve expected the year that I’ve had,” McCutcheon said. “I set the goal to become an NRHA Million Dollar Rider when I was 12.

Before the [NRHA] Futurity, I joked about the idea of winning first [in the Level(L) 4 Open] and placing with my other two horses to make it happen.”

Who knew that reality would far surpass the joke? McCutcheon’s wins at the 2019 NRHA Futurity pushed him past the million-dollar mark by more than $70,000.

For those who know McCutcheon, it’s not surprising he reached a goal long before he planned. He originally set the goal of crossing the million dollar mark by his 25th birthday.

A horse named “Turbo” equipped 6-year-old McCutcheon with the need for speed and helped the young horseman build the work ethic he needed to become a horse trainer.

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“I had a hard time getting him to lope,” McCutcheon said of the gelding. “He’d always take me over to the gate. It took me about six months before I got him to finally lope.

Once I got him loping, I never walked or trotted again.”

Perhaps Turbo secured McCutcheon’s fate to carry on the family legacy as an NRHA Professional. Or maybe it was simply bred into the third-generation reiner from the get-go.

McCutcheon’s first year as an NRHA Professional—2019—is hard work personified. Not only was he the Run for a Million Invitational co-champion, McCutcheon also topped the NRHA L3 Open Derby and placed first and second in three levels of the 2019 NRHA Futurity Open Finals.

“I was competing at the 2018 World Equestrian Games when I thought to myself ‘I can play with the big dogs,’” McCutcheon said. It was in that moment McCutcheon decided to officially take his riding to the next level as a professional.

Reaching the pinnacle of reining as a 19-year-old presents McCutcheon with a strong foundation to continue building on in 2020.

“There are a million people I could thank for this,” McCutcheon said. “I’ve been very lucky to have a good support system around me.”

McCutcheon’s 2019 NRHA Futurity Placings: Super Marioo (Gunnatrashya x HA Chic A Tune): L4-2 Open Champion Guns And Dynamite (Gunners Special Nite x Chic Olena Starbuck) L4 Open Co-Reserve Champion and L3-2 Open Reserve Champion Deja Vu With A Gun (Gunner x Dun Its Déjà vu) Open L4-2 Finalist

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Snip O Gun Joins Elite NRHA Million Dollar Dam Club

For Immediate Release – January 13, 2020 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is proud to recognize Snip O Gun as an NRHA Million Dollar Dam. Owned by Hilldale Farm, Snip O Gun is one of only three dams to produce offspring that reached the million-dollar earnings mark to date. She crossed the milliondollar milestone during the 2019 NRHA Futurity where her offspring earned more than $50,000.

Snip O Gun, affectionately known as “Snip,” made a name for herself despite harboring no show record of her own. The 1993 bay mare produced big-name reiners, including Inferno Sixty Six (by Gunnatrashya), Big Chex To Cash (by Nu Chex To Cash), Hot Smokin Chex (by Nu Chex To Cash) and Chexmaster (by Nu Chex To Cash).

“If a mare doesn’t have a show record, or you can’t afford one that does, you buy a mare with the best conformation and pedigree to cross with your stallions,” said owner Tammye Hutton of Hilldale Farm. “The only stud we had was Nu Chex To Cash, so we bought mares for him. I felt Snip was the perfect cross.”

Snip’s conformation emulates the foundational bloodlines of the American Quarter Horse. That, paired with her “cool” temperament, made her an ideal match for Nu Chex To Cash. Once he was done breeding, Hutton knew Snip would also cross well with Gunnatrashya and Colonels Shining Gun. “Snip is just very calm, cool, and collected,” Hutton said.

“I’m guessing if she would’ve had more than 30 days under saddle she would’ve been extremely athletic; she’s made for it. But she’s so laid back that you would’ve had to really ask her to do what you wanted; but that’s probably why she works well on different stallions.”

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Hutton said, “She’s round from the tip of her nose to the tip of her tail.”

“She has a big, soft, intelligent eye,” Hutton added. “She has a pretty neck that ties into her shoulder perfectly. She has a lot of bone, substance, and depth.”

Not to mention she stands on four strong feet.

Perhaps it’s just personal bias, or it’s the bold-face truth, Hutton said she’d be hard-pressed to find a fault in the mare. In the end, it was Snip’s personality and demeanor that captured Hutton’s heart.

“She’s very sweet, quiet, and laid back,” Hutton said.

“She likes to graze and be with her horse buddies, but she’s also the first one to the gate when I whistle.”

Snip O Gun’s top-performing offspring include:

Inferno Sixy Six (by Gunnatrashya): $205,690 LTE Big Chex To Cash (by Nu Chex To Cash): $194,260 LTE Hot Smokin Chex (by Nu Chex To Cash): $186,598 LTE Chexmaster (by Nu Chex To Cash): $103,911 LTE Snips Shining Gun (by Gunner): $52,817 LTE Snip O Satellite (by Nu Chex To Cash): $52,057 LTE Snip O Chex (by Nu Chex To Cash): $50,648 LTE Chexamillion (by Nu Chex To Cash): $35,377 LTE Rio Killer Gun (by CFR Centenario Wimpy): $33,752 LTE Snip O One (by A Sparkling Vintage): $31,911 LTE

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Shiners Voodoo Dr Reaches Million Dollar Sire Milestone

For Immediate Release – January 27, 2020 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – The newest addition to the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Million Dollar Sire list hails from Silver Spurs Equine–Oklahoma: Shiners Voodoo Dr. By NRHA Four Million Dollar Sire Shining Spark and out of Voodoo Chic, the 2007 palomino, fondly referred to as “Voodoo,” earned more than $85,900 in NRHA Lifetime Earnings (LTE) during his show career.

Owner Michael Miola of Silver Spurs Equine, LLC, first laid on eyes on the stallion after he purchased Xtra Quarter Horses in 2017. Voodoo was one of three stallions Miola acquired in the purchase. For Miola, Voodoo’s latest accomplishment isn’t exactly surprising.

“I was extremely impressed with his demeanor,” Miola said about meeting Voodoo. “One of the three things I look for in a breeding stallion is their demeanor.”

This trait is followed by their work ethic in the show pen and attitude in the breeding shed. Voodoo continues to check all three boxes for Miola.

NRHA Professional Thiago Boechat trained and showed the stallion prior to Miola’s purchase. The pair’s most notable accomplishment was at the 2012 NRHA Derby where they were the Open Level(L) 4 Co-Reserve Champions. As a 3-year-old, Voodoo was the 2010 Tulsa Reining Classic L3–2 Open Champion in addition to making the Open L4 Finals at the NRHA Futurity. Miola admits Voodoo isn’t known for his show career; the stallion shines brightest as a producer.

Xtra New Pal Voodoo, “Pal,” is the only horse by the stallion Miola kept on the ranch. The winner of more than $81,800 in NRHA LTE, Pal transition to a career in team roping, proving the versatility of Voodoo’s offspring.

During the 2019 NRHA Futurity, Voodoo’s progeny earned more than $30,000 to push him across the million-dollar mark. Both Xtra 58

Shiners Taboo (out of Xtra Suzies Step) and Magin Mann (out of Wimpys New Pal) walked away with checks after making the MS Diamonds TX Open L4 Finals. Also cashing checks at the NRHA Futurity were Xtra Handsome Shiner (out of Hermosa Wimpy), Xtra Voodoo Charm (out of Little Smart Wimpy), and Voodoo Brew (out of Reddy To Smokem).

Shiners Voodoo Dr’s top-performing offspring include: Xtra New Pal Voodoo (out of Wimpys New Pal, by Wimpys Little Step): $81,893 LTE Shiners Voodoo (out of BR China Rose, by Hollywood Dun It): $66,943 LTE Smart Voodoo Doctor (out of Smart As Sister, by Very Smart Remedy): $46,452 LTE Xtra Taris Voodoo (out of All That’s Dun, by Hollywood Dun It): $41,479 LTE Call Me Mr Voodoo (out of ARC Sassy Snapper, by Snapper Call Bar): $40,454 LTE Xtra Voodoo Gun (out of Miss Silver Gun, by Gunner): $38,098 LTE Xtra Voodoo Doc (out of Call Me Miss Hickory, by Docs Hickory): $37,719 LTE Blonde Ambishen (out of Relaxin With A Bud, by Nic It In The Bud): $37,691 LTE Shiners Voodoo Juice (out of SLJ This Is My Juice, by Smart Like Juice): $35,033 LTE Xtra Black Magic (out of Always Steppin Smart, by Wimpys Little Step): $33,716 LTE

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RUN FOR THE MILLION

SCOTTSDALE, AZ, February 11, 2020 - THE RUN FOR A MILLION is the richest event in the history of Reining. The event returns to the prestigious South Point Arena and Equestrian Center in Las Vegas, Nevada from July 29 – August 1, 2020.

Academy-Award nominee Taylor Sheridan, writer of HELL OR HIGH WATER and SICARIO, WRITER/DIRECTOR of WIND RIVER, co-creator of YELLOWSTONE and THE LAST COWBOY, designed a venue to showcase the talent of both horse and rider in some of the most demanding western equine sports in existence.

THE RUN FOR A MILLION offers the unprecedented opportunity to introduce millions of viewers to the sport of Reining. In addition to the main event there will be a $100,000 Open Reining Shoot Out. On top of the tremendous prize money, the top five riders in the Shoot Out will be guaranteed a position in the 2021 Million Dollar Invitational at THE RUN FOR A MILLION. Other performances include THE RUN FOR A MILLION Rookie Championships, $50,000 Non Pro Championships and $50,000 Invitational Freestyle. Riders can qualify for these Championships at various National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) approved host events across the United States and Canada. For a complete list of host events go to the website at www.TRFAM.com To be invited to participate in the $50,000 Freestyle, riders must submit a video of a Reining Freestyle performance to brumleyevents@gmail.com by June 1, 2020. Maximum of ten riders will be invited.

New for 2020, is the $100,000 Open Bridle Shoot Out presented by DT Horses.

An elite group of the best National Reining Cow Horse (NRCHA) riders are being invited to enter this exciting competition. 100% of the entry fees obtained will be added back into the payout purse.

The top fifteen riders on the NRCHA’s Open Eligibility list for 2020 are invited to enter. The eligibility is based on the rider, not the horse, so riders can choose any Bridle horse. Riders may bring more than one and wait to decide on their perfect choice for that night’s performance. If an invited rider cannot participate for any reason, the next rider on NRCHA’s list will be invited to participate and so on. For a complete list of invited riders go to http://nrchadata.com/pdf/news/2020/2020_top_ riders.pdf The goal in creating and producing THE RUN FOR A MILLION is to introduce new people to the world of western performance horses while supporting all of those who have made it their life’s passion.

THE RUN FOR A MILLION is produced by Brumley Management Group, LLC. For information regarding this event, sponsorship, vendor space, and advertising opportunities contact Brumley Management Group at brumleyevents@gmail.com Website: www.TRFAM.com 62

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WALTENBERRY WALTENBERRY

Know the Nutrients in Your Hay, Enabling a More Insightful & Efficient Way to Feed Your Horse

Hay is a main source of forage for many horses, and knowing what nutrients it offers allows horse owners and caretakers a better understanding of what else needs to be provided in the diet for optimal nutritional health. A detailed analysis can be done for all forages, including pasture and hay, and provides valuable information about digestibility and calorie content, protein levels, mineral concentrations as well as the content of sugars and starches. If you purchase hay to last more than a couple of months at a time, or if you grow hay yourself, a hay analysis can be helpful to know more precisely what you are feeding. An analysis can be especially useful for horses with health issues and is commonly recommended in such cases to make sure the diet is well balanced for disease management. Whether it is for peace of mind or general interest, a hay analysis is a good snapshot of the nutrient content for this important dietary staple.

Interpreting a hay analysis can seem daunting at first due to many terms and acronyms used in the report that are not otherwise seen even on commercial feed tags, labels and guaranteed analyses.

Local extension services may offer a forage analysis, or hay or pasture samples can be sent to a laboratory that specializes in these types of analyses such as Equi-Analytical Laboratories (equianalytical.com).

“As Sampled” vs “Dry Matter” At the top of the analysis report you will see the value of moisture, which is the percent of water in the hay. All hay will contain some moisture, typically about 10 percent. A significantly higher moisture level may indicate a higher risk for mold or heating in the hay bales. Haylage, a common preserved forage in many parts of the world and gaining interest in the United States, will have a higher moisture content (15-40 percent) as fresh cut hay is sealed in an anaerobic environment allowing the natural microbes to ferment the grass sugars. The dry matter portion is the percent of the hay that is not water and includes the protein, fat, mineral, carbohydrate and fiber content. Most dried hay contains approximately 90 percent dry matter. Many analyses will have two columns: an “as sampled” column and a “dry matter” (DM) column. The difference between the two columns and nutrient values that are in the analysis report is that the “as sampled” values contain the water and moisture content of the hay together. This is the natural state of the forage that 66

the horse will actually eat. The dry matter analysis has the moisture content removed from the sample values. Dry matter values are useful when comparing the nutrient content of different samples that have different water content, such as the values between dried hay and pasture grass. Either the “as sampled” or “dry matter” nutrient values can be used to balance a ration, if the feeds contain a similar dry matter content. The same column should be used consistently to prevent comparative errors.

Pasture and hay should make up the majority of any equine diet, and knowing what else is needed to complement a forage-based diet can take the guesswork out of feeding grain and concentrates, commercial feeds and supplements.

Digestible Energy, Crude Protein & Lysine

The digestible energy (DE) is the calorie yield of the hay and is usually listed in megacalories per pound or Mcal/lb. This is the measure of energy or “fuel” that the hay is providing. On an assampled basis, hays typically range from 0.6-1.1 DE per pound depending on plant type and maturity. For reference, a 1,100-pound (500 kg) horse at maintenance requires an average of 16.7 Mcal DE daily. Crude protein is a measurement of nitrogen and an estimate of the total protein content of the hay. Alfalfa hay tends to have higher crude protein levels ranging 15-22 percent compared to grass hays, which are typically lower averaging 7-14 percent, depending on stage of plant maturity when cut. If hay is below 10 percent crude protein, it may not meet protein requirements for a horse if hay is the only feed provided in the diet. For most adult horses, a crude protein concentration of 10-14 percent DM from hay will provide maintenance protein requirements when the hay is fed at 1.5-2 percent of the horse’s body weight. Crude protein content can also be one indicator of overall hay quality as grass or alfalfa hays with a 90 percent or higher dry matter content and harvested pre-bloom typically offer good digestibility and high quality or complete protein with all the necessary amino acids present.

Lysine is an essential amino acid required for bone growth and muscle development and repair. Adequate lysine levels are particularly important in the diet of growing foals to facilitate normal growth and development. Lysine tends to be the most limiting amino acid; it will be the first one lacking in the diet. If there is not enough lysine available in the diet, the body will be unable to use the remaining amino acids to synthesize proteins as all amino acids are needed in appropriate quantities to build protein.

•Pain Free Performance •Increasing Circulation •Increasing Bone Strength •Increasing Muscle Mass •Reducing Swelling & Inflammation •Reducing Injuries •Speeding Healing Time •Improving Joint Health & Function •Improving Balance •Reducing Stress •Promoting Relaxation •Preventing Injuries •Relieving Pain •Increasing Hoof Growth Muscle Mass •onMaintaining Stalled Horses •Warm Up and Cool Down ANDREA FAPPANI “I have a TheraPlate at my barn, and a TheraPlate that we travel with. I use it every day on a couple of horses that have older injuries and are a little bit stiffer. If any horses have a recent injury, or any sort of inflammation, I definitely put them on the TheraPlate as a preventative. What I like personally the most about TheraPlate is using it at horse shows. I use it on every horse I show— we do about twenty five-minute sessions every day before we ride them. If you have a horse that is a little uptight or you have to get their attention, I definitely think they become a lot more relaxed after the TheraPlate. It’s really a great product.”

Waltenberry photo

Tom McCutcheon

Andrea Fappani

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Top Reiners Rely On TheraPlate

TOM McCUTCHEON “We use TheraPlate on all of our horses, it’s a daily maintenance for us.

We started using it at a horse show, and now it’s part of the daily routine. I think it’s been really good for the horses rehabbing. While TheraPlate works well if you have a problem, it is also good to use to make sure you don't have a problem. For my show horses that have been sound, I think TheraPlate is really good at keeping them sound. Some of the rehab horses that haven’t been exposed to it come in here and get the TheraPlate treatment and I think it shortens their rehab considerably.”

For more information about the TheraPlate or to set up a trial, call 800-920-3685 or visit www.TheraPlate.com 67

For Immediate Release — Oklahoma City, 03.23.20 — The unfolding coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis has significantly affected National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) approved and owned shows across the globe. The NRHA European Derby, scheduled to be held during the Western Horse Show in Wels, Austria, on May 21-24, has been postponed due to the cancellation of the Austrian show.

In an effort to best accommodate horses, riders, breeders, and owners, the NRHA European Executive Board reviewed potential dates and venues. After careful consideration, the decision was made to host the Euro Derby on October 28 through November 1 during Equita Lyon 2020, the renowned international equestrian trade fair show — organized by GL events Equestrian Sports — held in Lyon, France.

For updates and further information nrhaeuropeanderby.com NRHA European Derby Media Contact: Simona Diale/International Horse Press Internationalhorsepress@gmail.com

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Rosanne Sternberg:

NRHA Two Million Dollar Owner For Immediate Release – February 19, 2020 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – Congratulations to National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Hall of Fame inductee Rosanne Sternberg for becoming the second-ever NRHA Two Million Dollar Owner. After reaching the NRHA Million Dollar Owner milestone in 2010 and being inducted into the NRHA Hall of Fame in 2017, she’s remained dedicated to producing quality reining horses while consistently striving for the next level of achievement.

During the 2019 show season, Sternberg’s horses earned more than $77,000 in combined NRHA Lifetime Earnings (LTE), culminating at the NRHA Futurity.

The success of Shines Like Spook (Smart Spook x Ebony Shines) at the NRHA Futurity, ridden by NRHA Professional Martin Larcombe, pushed Sternberg past the $2 million mark. Larcombe topped the Prime Time Open Futurity finals, finished third in Level(L) 3 Open, and placed 10th in L4, earning more than $42,600 toward Sternberg’s milestone.

“I knew Rosanne when I lived in Europe and worked with reiners,” Larcombe shared. “I continued that relationship when I came to the U.S., and she’s had horses with me for the past few years. She understands the game because she’s been in it that much.

She knows how it can be—the highs and the lows.

She’s been a great support, and she trusts me with her horses.”

Sternberg splits her time between Sterling Ranch in Aubrey, Texas, and her home in Great Britain. Her European-based mare—Ebony Spook (Smart Spook x Ebony Whiz)—was the 2014 NRHA Open World Champion under the guidance of NRHA Professional Ann Fonck.

“I am thrilled that after 34 years of owning, riding, breeding, and enjoying reining horses I’ve passed the milestone of becoming the second NRHA Two Million Dollar Owner,” Sternberg said. “I’ve been lucky 72

enough to own many exciting and talented horses and have enjoyed seeing not only family show and enjoy my horses, but also have had the privilege of working with some of the world’s top trainers based in both the U.S. and Europe.”

With over $86,000 in personal NRHA LTE, Sternberg has competed as a non pro rider at the highest levels, both in the U.S. and abroad.

Sternberg anticipates continuing her tradition of excellence of owning, breeding, and showing reining horses as she pursues her next milestone: becoming an NRHA Three Million Dollar Owner.

Standout horses throughout Sternberg’s career include:

Nijomi Sonny Reb (Sonny Brownburn x Marina Del Reb): over $63,700 LTE; her mount as part of the British team at the 2002 FEI World Equestrian Games in Jerez, Spain Smart Spook (Smart Chic Olena x Sugarplum Spook): over $403,100 LTE; NRHA Hall of Fame inductee and NRHA Six Million Dollar Sire; winner of the 2004 NRHA L4 Open Futurity and 2005 NRHA L4 Open Derby championships Tinsel Nic (Bueno Chexinic x Holly Tinseltown): over $165,600 LTE and over $381,000 offspring LTE) Ebony Shines (Shining Spark x Ebony Whiz): NRHA Hall of Fame inductee and first-ever NRHA Million Dollar Dam

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Amateur Division Conditions Approved for Trial Year For immediate release – January 10, 2020 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Executive Committee recently finalized and approved conditions for a trial phase an amateur division.

For 2020, any producer of an NRHA-approved non pro derby who wants to offer an amateur division that meets the criteria can submit a request for approval to the NRHA office.

The criteria are as follows: To compete in the amateur division, the same horse/rider must be cross-entered into the NRHA-approved non pro derby. The show conditions will govern which level(s) must be entered.

There will only be one level of amateur. Added money cannot exceed half of the Level(L) 4 added money.

Riders entering the amateur division must be non pros as defined in the NRHA Handbook.

Riders must abide by the non pro ownership rules as outlined in the NRHA Handbook.

During the test period, this will be classified as a Category 11 class.

All other NRHA rules apply.

The following riders are excluded from competing in the amateur division: Youth (as defined by the youth membership requirements in the NRHA Handbook).

Legal dependents of professional equine trainers.

A legal dependent is defined as being officially claimed as a dependent on a tax return.

Spouses or legal partners/mates of professional equine trainers. o Partner/mate status will only be accepted when the civil status is legally and lawfully registered in the country/state of residence. All relationships must be current and lawful.

A “professional equine trainer” is defined as someone who handles the mounted preparation of a horse with the intent to improve the horse’s performance in any equine discipline (as defined in the NRHA Handbook).

Anyone who has exceeded NRHA lifetime earnings of $100,000 in Category 2, 6, and 8 as of 12/31/19 or is currently eligible for Level(L) 4 non pro only.

Note: NRHA judges and breeders are eligible to compete in the amateur division if they meet the required criteria listed above.

“We’re glad to be able to provide an opportunity for flexibility in our programs to allow growth in NRHA competition,” remarked NRHA President Mike Hancock. “We’re approaching this trial phase with anticipation that it could grow into something big for the sport of reining. We appreciate the original supporters and backers of this program for their interest in the sport and its expansion.”

An amateur division will be debuting at the 2020 Cactus Classic in Scottsdale, Arizona. For more information about how to enter or to check your eligibility, contact the NRHA office at (405) 946-7400 or visit nrha.com.

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Francesca Sternberg Awarded 2019 British Equestrian Federation Medal of Honour For immediate release – December 20, 2019 – Oklahoma City, OK –The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is proud to congratulate longtime reiner Francesca Sternberg for being awarded the British Equestrian Federation Medal of Honour today at the Olympia International Horse Show in London. One of the highest accolades given by the British Equestrian Federation, the award recognizes Sternberg’s passion for equestrian sports in the United Kingdom and her achievements in the sport of reining.

“I would never have imagined the British Equestrian Federation would recognize a reiner,” Sternberg shared. “In the UK, we’re highly traditional—everything is eventing, show jumping, and dressage. To be recognized by my peers in my own country is quite overwhelming.”

Originally competing in top-level eventing and show jumping, Sternberg first became an NRHA member in 1995. Since then, she’s earned more than $418,500 in NRHA Lifetime Earnings (LTE) and experienced success at the highest levels, competing at five FEI World Equestrian Games and making numerous trips to the AQHA World Championship Show, NRHA Futurity, and NRHA Derby in Oklahoma City.

“The reining horse has taken me to places I would never have gone and allowed me to meet people I would never have met,” Sternberg revealed. “Although the accomplishments in the arena are hugely important, it’s not really all about that. It’s about the journey and the incredible experiences en route.”

In light of this latest honor, Sternberg credits the family she’s found within the sport of reining for helping her achieve such success.

“The heart of NRHA is a combination of the horse and the community,” Sternberg continued. “I haven’t found that in any other equestrian group. Everybody can be competitive, or just enjoy the ride. It’s a team effort.”

Sternberg’s two children, Tabitha Sternberg Allen and George Sternberg Allen, both share their mother’s passion for reining.

“I see the future containing exactly what the past has, but the difference is, I won’t be sitting in the saddle as much,” Sternberg laughed. “I’ve been beaten by both of my children in the past few months, and that was far better than anything I could win.”

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Snip O Gun Joins

Million Dollar Dam Club

January 13, 2020 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is proud to recognize Snip O Gun as an NRHA Million Dollar Dam. Owned

by Hilldale Farm, Snip O Gun is one of only three dams to produce offspring that reached the million-dollar earnings mark to date. She crossed the million-dollar milestone during the 2019 NRHA Futurity where her offspring earned more than $50,000.

Snip O Gun, affectionately known as “Snip,” made a name for herself despite harboring no show record of her own. The 1993 bay mare produced big-name reiners, including Inferno Sixty Six (by Gunnatrashya), Big Chex To Cash (by Nu Chex To Cash), Hot Smokin Chex (by Nu Chex To Cash) and Chexmaster (by Nu Chex To Cash).

“If a mare doesn’t have a show record, or you can’t afford one that does, you buy a mare with the best conformation and pedigree to cross with your stallions,” said owner Tammye Hutton of Hilldale Farm. “The only stud we had was Nu Chex To Cash, so we bought mares for him. I felt Snip was the perfect cross.”

Snip’s conformation emulates the foundational bloodlines of the American Quarter Horse. That, paired with her “cool” temperament, made her an ideal match for Nu Chex To Cash. Once he was done breeding, Hutton knew Snip would also cross well with Gunnatrashya and Colonels Shining Gun. “Snip is just very calm, cool, and collected,” Hutton said. “I’m guessing if she would’ve had more than 30 days under saddle she would’ve been extremely athletic; she’s made for it. But she’s so laid back that you would’ve had to really ask her to do what you wanted; but that’s probably why she works well on different stallions.”

Hutton said, “She’s round from the tip of her nose to the tip of her tail.”

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“She has a big, soft, intelligent eye,” Hutton added. “She has a pretty neck that ties into her shoulder perfectly. She has a lot of bone, substance, and depth.”

Not to mention she stands on four strong feet.

Perhaps it’s just personal bias, or it’s the bold-face truth, Hutton said she’d be hard-pressed to find a fault in the mare. In the end, it was Snip’s personality and demeanor that captured Hutton’s heart.

“She’s very sweet, quiet, and laid back,” Hutton said. “She likes to graze and be with her horse buddies, but she’s also the first one to the gate when I whistle.”

Snip O Gun’s top-performing offspring include: Inferno Sixy Six (by Gunnatrashya): $205,690 LTE Big Chex To Cash (by Nu Chex To Cash): $194,260 LTE Hot Smokin Chex (by Nu Chex To Cash): $186,598 LTE Chexmaster (by Nu Chex To Cash): $103,911 LTE Snips Shining Gun (by Gunner): $52,817 LTE Snip O Satellite (by Nu Chex To Cash): $52,057 LTE Snip O Chex (by Nu Chex To Cash): $50,648 LTE Chexamillion (by Nu Chex To Cash): $35,377 LTE Rio Killer Gun (by CFR Centenario Wimpy): $33,752 LTE Snip O One (by A Sparkling Vintage): $31,911 LTE

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Chic Please Dies at 25

A stallion known for his versatility as both a performer and a sire Chic Please (Smart Chic Olena x San O Lenita x Tenino San) was laid to rest on Monday, Jan. 20, according to a post made on the stallion’s Facebook page. He was euthanized “after some complications related to his age.”

“We are so grateful to have had him as part of our program, and to continue to watch the legacy he left through his offspring,” wrote owner Sergio Zermeno of Entorno Quarter Horses.

When he was just 3 years old, Chic Please took the Western performance horse world by storm. He and Equi-Stat Elite $4 Million Rider Todd Bergen arrived for the 1998 National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) Snaffle Bit Futurity with $9,000 already recorded in their ledger.

Their stellar finals performances, which totaled a 654.5 composite (218 herd/223 rein/213.5), secured the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Open Reserve Championship behind Reminics Pep and Greg Ward. But Chic Please was just getting started. chic please and todd bergenChic Please & Todd Bergen • Photo by Waltenberry The M S & B Enterprises-bred stallion, who was owned at the time by Arcese Quarter Horses, left Reno, Nevada, to head for Oklahoma City. His destination? The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Futurity.

In a true representation of his versatility, Chic Please dominated in the Jim Norick Arena. He carried Bergen to fourth in 102

round one with a 220, second in round two with a 223 and first in the finals with a 224.5. It was an astonishing feat for the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Open Reserve Champion.

Chic Please, who also made the Open finals of the NRHA Derby and NRCHA Derby in 1999, retired from the show pen at age 5 with $209,000-plus on his Equi-Stat record. By then, the respect he garnered for his standout futurity season translated into hype from mare owners.

Chic Please as a Sire At the time of his death, Chic Please’s offspring record exceeded $2.7 million. His 319 money-earning progeny built that total with paychecks in reined cow horse, reining, cutting, ranch versatility, roping and barrel racing.

ARC Sparkin Chics, a 2008 stallion (out of Sailing Spark x Shining Spark) trained and shown by Equi-Stat Elite $1 Million Rider Doug Williamson, is Chic Please’s No. 1 performer. With nearly $165,000 in lifetime earnings, the 2011 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Open finalist was still competing as of late 2019.

Chic Please’s top reining earner is RC The Chicster (out of Sonita Wilson x Doc Wilson), a 2005 stallion with $56,068 to his credit. The horse, who began his career in the United States, retired in 2012 after competing in Europe under the guidance of Michel Sandijck, Ernst Claassen and Steve Vannietvelt.

In Zermeno’s farewell post to Chic Please, he thanked Hilldale Farm, Equus RGV, Oasis Ranch and Brightstone Ranch for the stallion’s care.

“We would also like to extend a thank you to all the mare owners that bred to Chic Please over the years,” he wrote. “It was such an honor to have him in our lives!”

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NRHA Announces

Judge’s Rating System For Immediate Release – March 5, 2020 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – During the 2020 National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) winter meeting, members learned about a new judge’s rating system that’ll be used on a trial basis during 2020. The rating system aims to serve as a guideline for show management in regard to hiring judges.

The proposed system will rate judges from high to low on the following scale: AAA, AA, and A. The ratings will be generated from seven areas of criteria: years of judging, number of shows judged, number of major events judged, lifetime earnings (LTE), personal conduct, ability as a horseman, and performance at judging schools.

“During my first year as chair of the NRHA Judges Committee, I asked everyone what their number one priority was and they all agreed it was developing a rating system for judges,” said Mike McEntire, former Judges Committee chair and NRHA Professional. “There are several reasons we needed this rating system, but one of those is to give show committees a better idea of who they are hiring.”

Many shows already have a preference for who they hire, but what if that pool of candidates got a bit bigger? Higher-ranking judges—AAA—are typically hired for events such as the National Reining Breeder’s Classic (NRBC) or the NRHA Futurity. NRHA hopes the rating system will provide judges with more opportunities to work in the industry.

“The biggest thing we want to do is know who the judges are and track their work better,” McEntire added. “With the rating system, we feel like we can do that better and be able to educate the judges. We’ve had a lot of A judges that get their card but don’t get any work. Hopefully, with this program, the show’s management can look at the list and use the A and AA judges more. We are also hoping that we can pair our AAA judges with our AA and As to get them more experience.”

Since 2020 is a trial period for the rating system, judges will be re-evaluated at the beginning of 2021. For a complete list of judges by rating, visit nrha. com/judges.

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