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Welcome Etalon Genetics, a Sponsor of the NRHA Sire & Dam Program

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is proud to announce that Etalon Equine Genetics is now a sponsor of NRHA Sire & Dam Program. This dynamic collaboration marks the convergence of two industry titans with a shared mission to reshape equine health, elevate performance standards, and uphold the timeless traditions of western horsemanship through innovation and education.

Etalon Equine Genetics is known for its pioneering efforts in animal genetic research. It has assembled a formidable team of leading scientists, geneticists, biologists, and tech experts from the heart of Silicon Valley and renowned universities worldwide. Their mission is to equalize access to cutting-edge genetic diagnostics, making them user-friendly and affordable for horse enthusiasts at all levels.

“We’re embarking on an exciting journey with the National Reining Horse Association,” says Christa Lafayette, CEO of Etalon Equine Genetics. “By merging our genetic expertise with NRHA’s unwavering commitment to the reining horse, we’re empowering horse owners, trainers, and breeders with invaluable insights to unlock the full potential of equine health and performance.”

Etalon’s newest Performance Package is just one of the services included in this sponsorship that offers NRHA members a leg up in maximizing their horses’ potential in the show pen. This genetic testing package provides applicable knowledge about a horse’s inherent strengths and weaknesses related to speed, gait, and temperament. Armed with this knowledge, reining horse breeders, owners, and riders can tailor their breeding decisions and training programs to capitalize on each horse’s natural talents, resulting in improved performance and competitive success.

Founded in 1966, the NRHA and its world-class Sire & Dam Program have long been an industry pillar of excellence, fostering the reining horse’s prominence in a family-centric atmosphere while upholding the highest standards of western horsemanship. With its 2024 strategic plan focused on education, growth, and innovation, the NRHA is poised to lead the equestrian world into a new era.

The Sire & Dam program has delivered substantial value to its participants while contributing to the support of NRHA. It’s the perfect addition to any breeding program. Mare owners can purchase breedings they may not otherwise have access to, often at reduced rates. Offspring produced from the program have added value even before hitting the ground. Some of those benefits include: no nomination to the NRHA Futurity and Derby required; resulting foals are automatically eligible; reduced entry fees (up to 50%) to the NRHA Futurity and Derby, later entry deadlines for the NRHA Futurity, and Sire & Dam offspring eligibility remains with the horse even if it is sold.

Stallion owners who contribute a breeding to the Sire & Dam auction receive promotion through program advertising and inclusion in the NRHA stallion directory. They also become eligible for NRHA Futurity and Derby sire incentives, including cash awards.

“Etalon has a long history of innovations in the genetics space. We’re happy to have a relationship with a sponsor who appreciates our shared interest in innovation and scientific discovery,” says Billy Smith, NRHA Commissioner.

In a move aimed at empowering NRHA members, Etalon Equine Genetics will collaborate closely with the association to provide educational resources on equine genetics offering member discounts for genetic testing packages with white glove service included. This synergy between innovation and tradition aligns seamlessly with the NRHA’s vision of becoming the preeminent leader in equestrian sports.

“We believe in the ‘horse family’ approach for which the NRHA is known and aspire to work with riders of all ages, setting them up for success now and for years to come,” enthused Lafayette. “This is a truly unique combination of tech, science, and horsepower; something our kids will understand and leverage far beyond what we can imagine. Together, we’ll harness the power of genetics to preserve the rich legacy of the reining horse while propelling it into a future defined by welfare, performance, and unparalleled excellence in horsemanship.”

Etalon Equine Genetics’ sponsorship of the National Reining Horse Association’s Sire & Dam program signals a bold leap forward in the quest for equine excellence, uniting innovation, tradition, and passion in pursuit of a shared vision. For more information on Etalon Equine Genetics, visit etalondx.com

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The 2024 NRHA European Futurity offers the first NRHA Million Dollar Competition in Europe!

History will be made in Cremona, Italy, where the National Reining Horse Association European Futurity will be the first event in Europe to guarantee $1 million in added money. Held during the Salone del Cavallo Americano on May 22–26, the event is supported by NRHA Hall of Fame Inductee Eleuterio Arcese in collaboration with the Italian Reining Horse Association, TFY, a select group of supporters, and the NRHA Nomination Program money. This event will be the first of its kind for Europe and create incredible opportunities for riders, breeders, owners, and fans.

Open to 4-year-old horses entered in the NRHA European Nomination Program, the first edition of the NRHA European Futurity was held in Kreuth, Germany, in 2009. At the time, the idea of offering a European Futurity was strongly desired by Arcese. “I always felt that hosting a big Futurity on the Old Continent was imperative. The 16th edition is coming up, and it needs to be special,” says Arcese. “The international reining stage today aspires to hosting big shows with large purses, and we must follow this trend, in particular in Italy, the country that through the years has made European reining grow. At the end of the show season last year, my goal was to put together a pool of sponsors that would allow us to offer $1 million Euro Futurity. They came on board, and now the dream has come true.” Making Arcese even prouder is the fact that the 2024 IRHA/IRHBA Derby and Futurity have increased the added money — the first to $305,000 and the second to $800,000 — bringing the total added money in the three shows to $2,100,000.”

Arcese’s goal was also to bring together European purse supporters willing to sponsor the Euro Futurity over five years with all the money going to the purse. Mission accomplished. The following have undersigned with the 2024 event: NRHA Belgium, Roleski Ranch, NRHA Germany, Sabine Schmid, CS Ranch Management, 7 Heaven Reining Horses, BO Ranch, De Ceuster, AK Quarter Horses, AM Rising Star Ranch, Galaxy Quarter Horses, Midpoint Ranch, Rosanne Sternberg, Adrienne Speidel, Cardinal Hill Training Center LLC, Francesca Sternberg, NRHA France, Bouwmeester Reining Horses, NRHA Denmark, NRHA Sweden.

“This is our European Futurity and it is important that everyone invests in our event, no matter in which country the event is held. Hats off, and thank you to all those that joined forces,” he added. “As we look forward to welcoming all the participants to CremonaFiere, I ask that all riders prepare their mounts with extreme care, always respecting the horse and the sport. A big thank you to NRHA for always being by our side and trusting us.”

APHA Chrome Cash brings $5,000 boost to Paint Reiners

Once again, NRHA Alliance Partner American Paint Horse Association Chrome Cash is coming back to the 2024 NRHA European Futurity; the program will feature $3,000 in added money just for Paints! The Chrome Cash incentive program provides exclusive payouts to the highest-placing registered Paints in a specific slate of classes. In Cremona, the following will be offered:

  • Open Level 4 Futurity Division- Category 6 Closed to Paint Horses- $1,250 Added
  • Non Pro Level 4 Futurity Division- Category 6 Closed to Paint Horses- $1,250 Added
  • Open Ancillary- Category 4 Breed Restricted to Paint Horses- $1,250 Added
  • Amateur Ancillary- Category 4 Breed Restricted to Paint Horses- $1,250 Added

In order to participate:

-Horses must be registered with APHA or have registration pending with APHA. Both Regular Registry and Solid Paint Bred (SPB) horses are eligible.

-Owner and exhibitor must be a current APHA member

-Must enter the Chrome Cash class at the event, along with your regular class.

Learn more at apha.com/programs/chromecash

For further information: NRHAEUROPEANFUTURITY.com
For ticketing and entry to fairgrounds: SALONEDELCAVALLO.com

Media Contact:
Simona Diale / International Horse Press
Whatsapp: +39 340 5354629
Internationalhorsepress@gmail.com

The National Reining Horse Association is not responsible for the information contained in this press release. Please contact the author or submitting organization for further information, requests, or questions.

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2024 NRHyA Art & Photo Contest Deadline Approaching

One of the many benefits of being a National Reining Horse Youth Association member is the ability to participate in contests outside of the show pen. One of the most unique opportunities is the annual Art & Photo Contest sponsored by the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Entries for this year’s competition are due May 10.

Not only do the winners of this contest earn a prize, but their artwork will also be displayed at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum during the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel from June 11 to 23.

“We’re so proud of our partnership with NRHA, and we’re especially proud to host these NRHyA Art & Photo Contest winners here at the museum,” said Seth Spillman, Chief Marketing Officer at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. “It’s always a pleasure to see the work of this next generation of Western artists here at the museum.”

There are two categories, Photography and Mixed Media, in the age categories: 14-18, 13 & Under, and 10 & Under based on their age as of January 1.

Last year, nearly 40 entries were made in the contest.

“I love seeing the excitement on our youth members’ faces when they see their art on a wall next to industry professionals,” said Sara Honegger, NRHA Director of Marketing, who oversees the Youth and Affiliate programs. “This is such a special opportunity and I hope everyone will make time to go visit the display at the beautiful museum while they are in OKC in June.”

Entry forms for the 2024 NRHyA Art & Photo Contest can be found here. Entries will be accepted until May 10.

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NRHA Celebrates First $2 Million Dam

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) proudly announces a historic milestone as Wimpys Little Chic, a revered member of the equine community, becomes the first NRHA $2 Million Dam. This remarkable achievement continues to solidify Wimpys Little Chic’s status as a legendary dam within the reining industry. Through her offspring, ‘Lexi’ has significantly impacted the sport, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide.

Wimpys Little Chic, owned by NRHA Hall of Famer Arcese Quarter Horses USA, stands as a paragon of excellence in the realm of reining, consistently showcasing unparalleled talent and grace in the arena with NRHA Hall of Famer Shawn Flarida at the reins. The pair are the only team in reining history to win the NRHA Futurity, NRHA Derby, and the National Reining Breeders Classic consecutively and garnered more than $516,000 in NRHA lifetime earnings (LTE) together.

Bred by Double Run Farm, Wimpys Little Chic is by NRHA $13 Million Sire Wimpys Little Step, and out of Double Run Farm’s great broodmare Collena Chic Olena. 

At the American Performance Horseman (TAPH), presented by Teton Ridge, Wimpys Little Chic was well represented. Two of the five reining horses competing were her progeny: All Bettss Are Off and Finals Bound. The reining champion at TAPH, Down Right Amazing, is out of a daughter of Wimpys Little Chic, 2015 NRHA Futurity Champion Shesouttayourleague.

The 2020 NRHA Futurity Champions All Bettss Are Off (by Gunnatrashya) and Andrea Fappani earned second place and $75,000 at TAPH for owner Rancho Oso Rio LLC. The duo also took home $8,333 after placing 4th in the team competition. Finals Bound (by Gunnatrashya) earned third place bringing home $50,000 for owner Burnett Ranches, LLC/6666 Ranch with NRHA $2 Million Rider Cade McCutcheon at the reins and also earned $8,333 for placing 2nd in the team competition.

With a lineage steeped in greatness, Wimpy’s Little Chic continues to redefine the standards of excellence within the reining community. Her offspring have consistently demonstrated exceptional talent and athleticism, earning acclaim and accolades at prestigious competitions across the globe.

“Wimpys Little Chic is simply the greatest reining horse to ever draw a breath,” said Flarida. “I have asked Michele [Flarida’s wife] to write a book about our journey in this life together. She said the chapter on Wimpys Little Chic (Lexi) would be entitled, ‘A Love Story.’”

Although the reining community mourned the loss of Wimpy’s Little Chic in October, her prowess and grace continue in her legacy of offspring. NRHA congratulates Wimpys Little Chic, Arcese Quarter Horses USA, and all who have played a part in her remarkable journey.

Her top-earning offspring are:

  • All Bettss Are Off (by Gunner), owned by Rancho Oso Rio LLC, bred by Arcese Quarter Horses USA, $506,091 NRHA LTE
  • Andiamoe (by Gunnatrashya), bred and owned by Arcese Quarter Horses USA, $430,302 NRHA LTE
  • ARC Gunnabeabigstar (by Gunnatrashya), owned by HDC Quarter Horses, bred by Arcese Quarter Horses USA, $299,000 NRHA LTE
  • Shesouttayourleague (by Walla Walla Whiz), owned by DAG Ventures LLC, bred by Arcese Quarter Horses USA, $252,470 NRHA LTE
  • Finals Bound (by Gunnatrashya), Burnett Ranches, LLC/6666 Ranch, bred by Arcese Quarter Horses USA, $148,905 NRHA LTE
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NRHA Mourns the Loss of Hall of Famer Snip O Gun

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) joins the reining community in mourning the passing of NRHA Hall of Famer Snip O Gun, a legendary broodmare whose legacy transcends the show pen. With heavy hearts, we extend our deepest condolences to all who were touched by this exceptional mare.

Snip O Gun was a cornerstone of excellence in the reining world. Owned by Hilldale Farm, the 1993 mare’s impact extended far beyond her own achievements.

Sired by One Gun and out of Miss Kim Olena, Snip O Gun didn’t find her way to the NRHA Hall of Fame through competition but rather through a larger-than-life breeding career. As a broodmare, she shaped the future of reining through her offspring. Her exceptional genetics and temperament were passed down to generations of reining prospects, ensuring that her influence would endure for years to come. Her descendants continue to excel in the arena, a testament to the enduring legacy she leaves behind.

As we reflect on Snip O Gun’s remarkable life and career, let us remember her for the profound impact she had on the reining community as a whole. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

For more information about Snip O Gun and her contributions to the sport of reining, visit reini.ng/SnipOGunHallofFame.