Outwest
NEW REINING EVENT TO DEBUT
~ By Monique Noble
Painting by Gabriele Noll
HOLD ONTO YOUR HORSES! THERE IS AN X-citing new show debuting in the Canadian reining circuit for July 2022. Two very familiar faces in the Alberta horse show world have collaborated to create the X-Ibition Open. With years of show experience, well known horseman and announcer Ron Anderson has joined forces with show videographer, photographer turned show secretary and now show manager extraordinaire, Dave Bernard. Bernard’s pioneering show database program and Anderson’s announcing expertise, will make for a flawless debut. The X-Ibition show dates are slated for July 28-31 and will be the first reining show to take place at the recently built Claresholm Agriplex, in Claresholm, AB. With a focus on fun, excitement, and the best ground possible, this event is working hard in partnership with the Willow Creek Agricultural Society to bring a fresh approach to reining in western Canada. The show already boasts some incredible sponsorship from Co-Creator and owner of HD2 Productions Dave Bernard, Jack Carter Auto Group, and a growing roster of Alberta Breeders. Premiering the titular $10,000 added X-Ibition Open that EVERYONE (pros and non-pros alike,) are being encouraged to enter, there are also derby classes, as well as a full range of ancillary classes. This show promises to have a little something for every level of rider and their families. Featuring two arenas that will be run simultaneously, the show will end early enough for everyone to enjoy the opening Gala and a Saturday night cabaret. There are even whispers of live entertainment, karaoke and a dance floor… With great prizes for winners and so much more planned for every entrant, this show is all about the joy of reining and community. Bernard and Anderson know it’s not about the destination – it’s about the ride to get there. They also recognize that family comes along for the ride and there will be lots for the entire community to do, including a supervised kids day camp where the littles can hang out throughout the show. While you are waiting on the edge of your saddle for the show season to begin; tune in to the X-Ibition podcast (available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify) hosted by Anderson and Bernard. The podcasts are filled with show updates, anecdotes, questionable horse catching tactics and special guests from the horse community, like Albertan trainer and two-time level 1 open National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) futurity finalist Shelby Mitchell of Northern Performance Horses. Mitchell has over 10 years of training and show experience north and south of the boarder and will be the X-Ibition’s inaugural NRHA (pending) representative. She is also the first of many amazing guests appearing on the rundown to this year’s X-Ibition Open.
