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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.

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NRHA to Launch Pilot Program for New Ranch Reining Class

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) has introduced an exciting new pilot program: the Ranch Reining Class, approved by the NRHA Board of Directors for a pilot phase. This initiative aims to broaden participation in reining events by offering a more accessible, welcoming environment for both newcomers and seasoned competitors.

What is Ranch Reining?

The Ranch Reining pilot class highlights fundamental reining maneuvers through simplified patterns and rules akin to other ranch-style events. Designed for inclusivity, this class fosters a relaxed, approachable format while maintaining the essence of reining competition.

Key Objectives of the Pilot Program

The pilot program is structured to achieve several positive outcomes:

  • New Opportunities for Members: Current riders and horses gain an additional class to compete in.
  • Expanding NRHA’s Reach: By incorporating ranch-style reining classes, NRHA can attract riders and horses from a growing sector of equestrian sports.
  • Encouraging Participation: Show management benefits from increased entries and a welcoming format for new competitors.
  • Evaluation & Refinement: The pilot allows NRHA to gather feedback and refine rules before formal implementation.

“This class offers a friendly venue to try NRHA, especially for those already competing in ranch-type events,” said Christa Morris-Stone, NRHA Assistant Commissioner. “It’s an easy cross-over class. This format also may appeal to existing or former members who are looking for a new niche at NRHA reinings.”

Key Benefits for Show Management

  • Attract New Audiences: Tap into the popularity of ranch events to draw riders, horses, and owners unfamiliar with NRHA.
  • Support Existing Members: Provide a fresh avenue for current competitors and older horses to remain active.
  • Flexible Event Options: Simplified patterns and reduced time requirements make Ranch Reining an ideal addition for shows with a variety of schedule and arena conditions.

Class Structure and Rules

The Ranch Reining pilot class comes with a set of guidelines to ensure consistency during its testing phase:

  • Divisions Offered:
    • Open, Non Pro and Youth Ranch Reining
    • Prime Time Non Pro (50 and older as of 1/1)
    • Rookie and Rookie Youth Ranch Reining
  • Ownership: Non Pro and Youth ownership restrictions apply.
  • Jackpotting: Classes may be jackpotted, and money can be added without a cap.
  • Membership Requirements: Memberships and licenses are not required during the pilot phase.

Judging Standards

  • Adapted Rules: Judging follows NRHA Green Reiner guidelines for riding two-handed and simple lead changes.
  • Ranch Equipment Standards:
    • No hoof polish, no hoof black. No braided or banded manes/tails or tail extensions.
    • Holding the saddle horn with either hand will not be penalized in any Ranch Reining class.
    • Equipment with silver should not count over a good working outfit. Excessive silver on bridles and saddles is discouraged.
  • Patterns: Participants will use approved Ranch Reining patterns from alliance associations:
    • American Quarter Horse Association: Versatility Ranch Horse Ranch Reining Pattern 3, 4, 6 or 7
    • American Paint Horse Association Ranch Reining Pattern 1
  • NRHA Judges: They may judge the class in the pilot phase.

During the pilot phase, NRHA events are not required to apply to NRHA or submit any fees to the Association. Instead, NRHA staff encourages show management teams and exhibitors to share their feedback on the pilot program throughout the year.

Future Implications

This pilot program provides NRHA and show managers with the tools to evaluate interest, refine event rules, and build momentum for Ranch Reining as a permanent addition. By creating an approachable entry point, NRHA hopes to engage a wider audience and sustain growth in reining competitions.

For questions on the pilot, please contact Christa Morris-Stone at cmorris@nrha.com.

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Sliders’ Night Out Presented by Toyon Ranch

Sliders’ Night Out presented by Toyon Ranch was befitting of the international scope and success of the National Reining Horse Association’s marquee event, the NRHA Futurity & Adequan® North American Affiliate Championships. Promoted as the hottest night on reining’s social calendar, the festive event had a mix of energy, reverence, and vision that has propelled the Reining Horse Foundation (RHF) to new heights since the event was established in 2018.

“I have had so many people come up to me and say that was the most moving evening they have been to in such a long time. It really hit their hearts,” said Nancy Tague, secretary/treasurer of the RHF Board of Directors and co-owner of presenting donor Toyon Ranch with her husband, John.

Held December 4 in the historic Centennial Building on the OKC Fairgrounds, Sliders’ Night Out welcomed guests from around the globe. The reception provided time for socializing and perusing live auction donations.

Following a delicious surf-and-turf dinner from Impact Catering, the program was emceed by Brian Lookabill. First up was recognition of former inductees into the NRHA Hall of Fame, with nearly two dozen men and women on hand representing people and horses who have received reining’s highest honor. Members of the NRHA Hall of Fame are VIP guests whose attendance is underwritten by the event’s major donors at the presenting, platinum, gold, silver, and hall of fame levels.

“Sliders’ was a super night for me to see where we’ve come from and where NRHA is today,” said NRHA Hall of Fame member and $1 million rider Jim Morgan, DVM. “I was thrilled to be there with my wife and see the excitement of the people that attended.”

The evening’s first award went to Markel, recipient of the 2024 NRHA Dale Wilkinson Lifetime Achievement Award. Remarks were given on behalf of NRHA’s longest-running corporate partner by Frank Costantini, Markel director of western disciplines, who was personally inducted into the NRHA Hall of Fame in 2001.

New NRHA Hall of Fame inductees included three mares and the sport’s highest money-earning rider, Andrea Fappani. Accepting on behalf of his mare Snow Gun was Andre De Bellefeuille of Canada. Accepting on behalf of her family’s mare Wind Her Up Shiner was NRHA non pro Mariana Vazquez of Illinois representing Smart Like Juice LLC. The final mare inducted was Wind Her Up Chic, a half-sister of Wind Her Up Shiner. Accepting was owner Tim Anderson, who splits his time between homes in South Dakota and Arizona.

Fappani of Scottsdale, Arizona, was the night’s final inductee. In his remarks, he thanked many who took him under his wing when he moved from Italy to the United States to become a reining trainer. He took the stage to a standing ovation.

In addition to honoring the sport’s legends, Sliders’ Night Out serves as the largest annual fundraiser for the RHF, helping support other core programs such as the Dale Wilkinson Memorial Crisis Fund, youth leadership development, and scholarships. An appeal to donors during the event raised more than $6,000. It was the live auction that soared. The high-selling item was “One Last Slide,” a mixed media work on canvas painted from start to finish during the event by Josey Butler, Streakin’ B Art.

Additional auction items included a John Deere ZTrak Mower donated by Equine Discounts, an ICSI Services Package donated by NRHA Corporate Partner GeneTech, a custom luxe edition mink hat donated by NRHA Corporate Partner Shorty’s Caboy Hattery, a Country Cruising 5-night cruise and music festival donated by FDT Cruises, and a NASCAR Truck Racing VIP experience made possible by ThorSport Racing. The auction grossed more than $80,000.

“The messages about RHF and what it does really resonated with guests,” said Tague. “I know we’ve actually had people who have been awarded Crisis Fund grants share how deeply it was felt for them to know there was someone like RHF there to take care of them and to think about them. That’s why we do this. It’s just so inspiring.”

For nearly 25 years, members of the equine community have been doing good things through the Reining Horse Foundation, the charitable arm of the National Reining Horse Association. With its mission of caring for and honoring the reining community, the RHF has supporters from around the world. Core programs include the Dale Wilkinson Memorial Crisis Fund providing financial relief to reiners enduring major hardships; youth scholarship and leadership development through the National Reining Horse Youth Association; and perpetuation of the sport’s history through the NRHA Hall of Fame. For more information or to give, visit reiningfoundation.com.

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Six-figure bids break records at NRHA Markel Futurity Sales

For the last 24 years, the National Reining Horses Association (NRHA) has given consignors and buyers a place to buy and sell the movers and shakers of the industry. In 2024, the atmosphere of the NRHA Markel Futurity Sales was different than in the past. While the seats at State Fair Park in Oklahoma City were packed early on, it was the online bidders who took the reins at first. Even as the crowd thinned out, the volume around the auction block began to rise. Records were broken during this historic event as a yearling breached the $200,000 mark.

Navigating the auction block was the two-man team of Randy Woodard and Cody Shelley, who helped 238 horses pass through the ring. Five horses sold for more than $100,000, which brought the sale average up to $26,904. Total ring sales for the event grossed $6,214,800. Similar to the 2023 sale, it looked like the high seller came out early in the day during the Performance Horse Sale when the gavel fell for an impressive $177,000. Late in the day, that number would be blown out of the water by none other than Anne Tournay of Vieux-Genappe, Belgium, when she bought TR Gunna Bring It for a startling $250,000. This is the third year in a row that Tournay has purchased the highest seller of the entire event.

Buyers, both in person and online, came hungry, and just about everyone left happy. QStallions hosted the sale breakfast to get the day started as anticipation for the Platinum Performance Draw Party began to build. Once the draw party concluded, the National Reining Horse Youth Association (NRHyA) Stallion Auction helped bidders get warmed up before the first horse entered the ring.

Eleven generous owners donated a 2025 breeding to an elite group of stallions to help raise money for NRHyA activities. Far surpassing last year’s auction, NRHyA walked home with just over $45,000 to fund its 2025 endeavors. For the third year in a row, a breeding to NRHA Nine Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Whiz (Spooks Gotta Gun x Prettywhizprettydoes) was the high seller for the youth. Generously donated by Michell Kimball of Collinsville, Texas, the Spooks Gotta Whiz breeding brought $10,000 from buyer Tim Anderson from Milbank, South Dakota.

With so many top-quality horses set to sell, it was anybody’s guess which horse would top out the sale. When a kind-eyed, simple sorrel colt walked into the pen during the Premier Sale, he commanded quite a bit of attention. As the bidding quickly jumped into the six figures, hip number 506 was truly unbothered. The volume around TR Gunna Bring It kept rising, and yet he proceeded to yawn multiple times. His indifference to the volume and unfamiliar setting around him is a testament to his NRHA Thirteen Million Dollar Sire Gunnatrashya. His dam, Ms Whiz Dunit, is an own daughter of another NRHA Thirteen Million Dollar Sire, Topsail Whiz. Consigned by Cooper Smith of Smith Ranch out of Whitesboro, Texas, the colt sold for $250,000 to Tournay. This is the third year in a row that Tournay has bought the highest seller. The hefty price tag for this colt contributed to the final ring total of $3,086,000 for an average of $24,923. Out of the 124 head consigned, 104 sold for a gross sale of $2,592,00, which allowed for an average of $24,923.

Smith Ranch started out the day strong when their consignment in the Performance Horse Sale sold for $177,000. Hip number 111, Daytona Five Hundred, was sold to Debbie Kuffer of Bradenton, Florida. Previously in training with Tremblay Performance Horses, the 2022 buckskin colt has all the right ingredients to reach new heights for Kuffer. He’s by NRHA Four Million Dollar Sire Shiners Voodoo Dr and out of Okie Starbella (by Grays Starlight). Final ring totals reached $535,00 for an average of $48,636. With 11 head on the sale, numbers almost doubled year over year. Nine of those horses sold, which allowed the sale to gross $473,000 for an average of $52,556.

Fifty-three of the 69 consignments in the Elite Yearling Sale found new homes, but it was hip number 266 who caught the most attention. Dolittles Top Spook was consigned by Bobby Lewis of Overbrook, Oklahoma, and the buckskin filly was bought by NRHA Million Dollar Rider Fernando Salgado from Gainesville, Texas. Her $125,000 price tag got Salgado an elite cross between Spooks Gotta Whiz and Dolittle Lena. Averaging $27,632, the ring total hit $1,906,600. Out of the horses sold, the sale grossed $1,574,700 for an average of $29,711.

Several two-for-one deals circled the block during the Preferred Breeder’s Sale, which boasted a 100 percent sale rate this year. The most sought-after was hip number 328, Chick Out These Guns. Boasting the hallmark bald face of her sire, NRHA Fifteen Million Dollar Sire Colonels Smoking Gun, the 2014 mare is out of Dun It By Chick, who is an own daughter of NRHA Six Million Dollar Sire Hollywood Dun It. Consigned by Chappell Horse Sales, Rancho Los 4 bought the broodmare for $76,000 which included a confirmed pregnancy to Jerseys Baby Driver. Chappell Horse Sales also consigned the second-highest seller of the Preferred Breeder’s Sale with hip number 335, Dont Tell Me (Hollywood Dun It x Shiney Enterprise), who sold for $57,000 to Alex Castaneda of Loredo, TX. Ring totals reached $687,200 for an average of $21,475. Since all 32 consignments sold, the sale grossed the same amount as the ring totals.

All prices and totals reflected are unofficial. Final prices will be posted on nrha.com at a later date.