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Keller Climbs to $1 Million in NRHA Rider Earnings

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) announces Jessicah Keller of Sumner, Texas, as an NRHA Million Dollar Rider. Keller reached this milestone at the Heart of Dixie Reining Horse Association (HDRHA) Wicked Slide in McDonald, Tennessee.

A dedicated reining competitor, Keller became an NRHA member in 1998 and began her career in Youth competition, excelling in the category until 2003. She transitioned to Non Pro competition and steadily built her success over the years, earning top placements at NRHA Futurities and Derbies. Among her most notable achievements was her victory at the 2008 Bill Horn Shootout/Single Shot Derby, where she claimed the Level (L) 4 Non Pro Championship aboard Helluva Chex, a horse owned by Keller’s family at NRHA Million Dollar Owner Hilldale Farm. Together, the duo added $20,000 to their NRHA Lifetime Earnings (LTE).

One of her most cherished partnerships was with Snips Shining Gun, a mare also bred and owned by Hilldale Farm. Together, they accumulated more than $92,550 in NRHA LTE. Their standout performances include placing fifth in the L4, third in the L3, and earning Reserve Champion in the L2 at the 2019 NRHA Non Pro Futurity.

Keller’s impressive career continued into 2024, where she amassed over $42,600 in earnings, solidifying her spot in the NRHA history books as a Million Dollar Rider. Her final push to the million came at the HDRHA Wicked Slide I, where she clinched the L1 Novice Horse Non Pro title and Reserve Champion honors in the L2 Novice Horse Open Non Pro aboard Gunna Be Rich. She then finished 17th in the 2024 NRHA CINCH Level 4 Non Pro Futurity Championship on Nu Chex (Nu Chex To Cash x Snips Shining Gun) owned by Hilldale Farm. The pair also finished 10th in the L3.

Keller’s top-earning finishes include:

  • 2008 Bill Horn Shootout/Single Shot L4 Non Pro Derby Champion aboard Helluva Chex earning $20,000
  • 2019 NRHA L4 Non Pro Futurity fifth place aboard Snips Shining Gun earning $15,009
  • 2008 NRHA L4 Non Pro Futurity fifth place aboard Plus One Chex earning $14,130
  • 2008 NRHA L4 Non Pro Derby Reserve Champion aboard Helluva Chex earning $11,361
  • 2019 NRHA L3 Non Pro Futurity third place aboard Snips Shining Gun earning $11,213

Read more about Keller’s journey to the million in the March issue of NRHA Reiner.

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NRHA Announces Guest Speakers for 2025 Leadership Gathering

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) previously announced a new event, the Leadership Gathering, to be held February 2-3, 2025, at the downtown Oklahoma City Omni Hotel.

A key focus of the event will be a full day dedicated to industry experts helping our members tackle issues such as financial planning, hiring qualified help, and how to get the most out of your association membership.

“The goal of this event is to provide our members the resources they need to help achieve professional and personal success,” said NRHA Commissioner Billy Smith. “We are fortunate to have some of the best in the industry agree to speak at this inaugural event, and we hope our members take advantage of this incredible opportunity,” Smith continued.

The event is free and open to the membership to attend.

Luke Milholland, Chief Executive Officer of Vault Wealth Strategies, LCC, and a registered investment advisor, will kick off the guest speaker sessions held February 3. Milholland will provide valuable insight for breeders, trainers, and others seeking to strengthen the financial foundation of their operations.

“Many of our professional groups have made it clear that they need more assistance with the business side of things,” said NRHA Director of Governance & Executive Administration Liz Kelsey. “Having Luke’s financial expertise coupled with his first-hand knowledge of the reining industry will greatly benefit our members and help them improve their financial decision-making.”

The interactive format of the event will allow ample time for member questions and networking. “No matter your involvement with NRHA, every individual will be able to take away something from these sessions,” Smith added.

In addition to the guest speakers, a special cocktail reception will be held that evening to allow members to engage with sponsors, leadership, staff, and other individuals within the industry.

“It is important for our members to make those personal connections,” Kelsey continued.

For more information on the 2025 NRHA Leadership Gathering, including the full schedule, free registration, and to book your hotel room, click here.