Category: Partner

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

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) proudly welcomes TAM Enterprises, Inc. with AML Reiners as our newest Partner.

TAM Enterprises, Inc. was founded in 1994 by Anthony (Tony) Lasaponara and has grown to be one of the largest locally owned water and wastewater mechanic companies in the Hudson Valley of New York. In addition to working up and down the East Coast, TAM is licensed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the New Jersey and Pennsylvania Departments of Environmental Protection for waste hauling. Please visit tamenterprises.com to find out more.

“For as long as we have been a part of the NRHA, good horsemanship, good sportsmanship, and the emphasis of family values has always been a constant part of the horse show atmosphere,” says Tony Lasaponara, the Owner and President of TAM Enterprises, Inc. “It is essential that our children continue to learn and grow within this community, as they are the future of this sport. It is our privilege to do our part in supporting such a great organization.”

AML Reiners is based in Goshen, New York, just over an hour from New York City. Starting her equestrian journey at the age of three in the Hunter/Jumper world, Alea Lasaponara earned top placings in shows from Lake Placid, New York, down to Wellington, Florida. She eventually realized that she also had a passion for reining and switched her focus to the Western portion of the industry and has been dedicated and unstoppable.

Continuing her commitment and enthusiasm for the sport, Alea is currently working hard to win major events such as NRHA Futurity, NRHA Derby, NRBC, and The Run For A Million. No matter which style of riding, where she is, or who she is with, the horses are always put first. When the horses aren’t training, they’re given time to relax in the barn and fields in her backyard.

“NRHA is thrilled to have TAM Enterprises, Inc. and AML Reiners as an NRHA Partner,” says Mark Blake, NRHA President. “We are excited to help them achieve their marketing goals and dreams.”

To see the family of NRHA Partners, please visit nrha.com/partners, and to find out how to join the family, contact Christy Landwehr at clandwehr@nrha.com. 

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) proudly welcomes Genetech Animal Reproduction as our newest Corporate Partner.

Genetech Animal Reproduction offers advanced equine reproduction services for all equine breeds. Quality, excellence, and customer feedback are hallmarks of all its services. Genetech has a modern in vitro embryo production laboratory offering ICSI, embryo vitrification, and embryonic biopsy. All of these services provide excellent production and fertility rates.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is an in vitro fertilization technique used in animal reproduction with the aim of increasing embryo production and obtaining a greater number of animals with high commercial value or helping those with clinical gestational limitations. The technique consists of injecting a single sperm inside the egg. Fresh or frozen semen of low quality or high commercial value can be used. Embryos cultured in the laboratory, within approximately 10 days, are evaluated and transferred to a recipient mare or frozen.

“The NRHA is proud to have Genetech Animal Reproduction as part of our Corporate Partner family,” says Christy Landwehr, NRHA Senior Director of Corporate Relations. “The owners and staff are wonderful to work with.”

Genetech Animal Reproduction recently launched a new service to the market, a complete center for the diagnosis and treatment of stallions, which has the most sophisticated equipment and highly qualified staff to help stallion owners. Genetech works with stallion stations to improve semen quality, help with stallion problems, and treat reproductive pathologies.

“We became an NRHA Corporate Partner because the reining industry has an exceptional breeding program, and we believe that we can make it even better,” says Thiago Boechat Co-Owner of Genetech Animal Reproduction.

Located in Purcell, Oklahoma, and Brazil, Genetech Animal Reproduction provides a service of excellence, using the highest technology for the best result for our customers. With decades of experience in equine reproduction and in vitro fertilization, our team is made up of highly qualified professionals in the field. To learn more, please visit us at genetechvet.com.

To find out more about how to become an NRHA Corporate Partner or Sponsor, visit nrha.com/partners

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is thrilled to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the collaboration with long-standing corporate partner Markel, the official equine insurance partner of NRHA.

Many NRHA trainers, owners, and breeders trust Markel with their insurance needs for their horses, ranches, and businesses. Markel has attended every NRHA Derby and Futurity for the past 30 years and is a current NRHA Global Partner with the NRHA European Derby and Futurity. Markel is also a presenting sponsor of the 6666 NRHA Derby held annually at the Oklahoma Fairgrounds in June and the title sponsor of the NRHA Markel Futurity Sale. The sale is held during the NRHA Futurity in November and offers an outstanding group of two-year-old reining prospects, yearlings, stallions, broodmares, and show horses.

“These are unprecedented times for the sport of reining,” shared NRHA Commissioner Gary Carpenter. “The growth in activity in the past several months has even the most seasoned veterans shaking their heads in awe. Amid all this excitement, let’s remember that Markel has been with NRHA as a corporate partner for three decades. That is a lifetime for a partnership. We appreciate all Markel has done for us and is doing for us.”

With over 50 years of knowledge and experience in insuring horses, farms, and horse-related businesses, Markel remains committed to the horse industry. “A corporate partnership that endures for thirty years is a testament to the strength and integrity of the NRHA and Markel,” said Frank Costantini, Senior Director of Western Disciplines at Markel. “The meteoric rise of the Reining Horse Industry worldwide has been unprecedented. At Markel, we’re extremely proud to have been a part of that growth and look forward to an even bigger and brighter future for the NRHA and the sport of reining.”

NRHA is proud to have an immeasurable team of corporate partners that offer great benefits to the association’s members and supports NRHA events throughout the year. Contact Christy Landwehr, Senior Director of Corporate Relations, to learn more about NRHA Partnership opportunities by email at clandwehr@NRHA.com or nrha.com/partners.

Markel is a diverse financial holding company serving a variety of niche markets. The company’s principal business markets and underwrites specialty insurance products. In each of the company’s businesses, it seeks to provide quality products and excellent customer service so that it can be a market leader. The financial goals of the company are to earn consistent underwriting and operating profits and superior investment returns to build shareholder value. Coverage is provided by one or more of the insurance companies within Markel,  Markel® is a registered trademark of the Markel Corporation. Visit Markel on the web at markel.com.

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is excited to honor two partner milestones of 25 years. CINCH is the official jeans and shirts of NRHA, and Classic Equine is the official equine leg protection of NRHA. Both have promoted NRHA, supported members for many years, and continue to do many great things for the equine industry. 

NRHA Commissioner Gary Carpenter shares, “Our relationships with Classic Equine and CINCH are remarkable. They are both celebrating a Silver Anniversary with us. Our members, board, and staff are proud to have partners with the staying power of these friends.”

CINCH jeans have stood at the forefront of the western clothing industry since their launch in 1996. As leaders in using innovative techniques to produce premium quality denim and shirts, the CINCH brand grew quickly. Unique prints and patterns found only on CINCH shirts are iconic in the western competitive riding world throughout the equine disciplines. The world champion athletes who ride with “CINCH” on their sleeves and collars stand proudly behind the brand.

“CINCH is proud to be celebrating our 25th year as a sponsor of the National Reining Horse Association,” said CINCH Marketing Coordinator Cassi Nichols. “There’s never been a more exciting time to be involved in the western industry, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with this outstanding organization as they forge the future in the sport of reining.”

Annually at the 6666 NRHA Derby Presented by Markel, CINCH sponsors the National Reining Horse Youth Association (NRHyA) Speaking Contest. To honor their 25-year partnership, CINCH will donate $2,500 in scholarship monies for the youth participating in the contest.

“It is incredible to see a sponsor support a program that directly encourages the practice of a life skill that is often very intimidating for youth members,” said Sara Honegger, NRHA Director of Marketing and youth programs manager. “The opportunity of earning scholarship dollars is great encouragement for youth to step out of their comfort zones.”

Classic Equine offers a complete line of products, including pads, leg boots, wraps, blankets, bits, and cinches. Their goal is to support every individual who strives to be the best at what they do. Classic Equine has always worked closely with professional men and women from all disciplines of the western performance-horse industry to test and perfect each product they manufacture. Because the company was founded and developed by professionals, the form and function of each product serves a specific purpose and is now the standard in equipment for top NRHA Champions.

The NRHA Green Reiner Program is sponsored by Classic Equine. This program recognizes achievement levels in a family-oriented, fun, and educational setting where exhibitors can gain more knowledge by being given the opportunity to talk to judges after the classes they compete in.

“Classic Equine and the NRHA have evolved right alongside each other over the last 25 years of our partnership. The NRHA was our first sponsorship in the Performance Industry. We appreciate and thank them for our growth in the industry,” said Billie Bray, Chief Marketing Officer. “Our shared goals in doing what we love while putting the horse’s well-being above all else has helped move the sport forward in a positive direction. We’re proud to be part of NRHA’s legacy, and we look forward to continuing our passion in supporting reining horses and their riders as the sport continues to grow, from the green classes to those competing at the highest levels under the brightest spotlights.”

NRHA is proud to have an immeasurable team of corporate partners that offers great benefits to the Association’s members and supports NRHA events throughout the year. Contact Christy Landwehr, Senior Director of Corporate Relations, to learn more about NRHA Partnership opportunities by email at clandwehr@NRHA.com or by visiting nrha.com/partners.

About CINCH Jeans & Shirts: LEAD, DON’T FOLLOW.

Since 1996, the CINCH Clothing brand has been creating quality jeans and shirts for both in and out of the arena. Some of the best athletes from the rodeo, bull riding, and equine performance circles love CINCH jeans and shirts because of the quality fit and the authentic western look. From collared long sleeve shirts and classic short sleeved button ups to outerwear and fashion-forward western jeans, the CINCH brand puts fit and styling first. Whether fashion basics or premium styles, the designs and reputation of CINCH Jeans make CINCH Clothing the number one choice for those who live and breathe the western way of life. Visit CINCH online at www.CINCHjeans.com.

About Classic Equine: PLAY TO WIN! 

A leader in innovation, Classic Equine continues to be one of the most trusted sources for equine performance products. Combining top of line materials and original designs, Classic Equine provides the equipment riders rely on every day to enhance performance, protect, and support their horses. Manufacturing the finest quality in horse sport products has been the mission of Classic Equine since inception. Classic Equine is located in Granbury, Texas. Visit www.classicequine.com and remember to look for the chess head at your favorite tack dealer, it is the mark of true horsemen.

Founded in 1966, the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion of the reining horse in a fun-filled, family atmosphere. NRHA’s mission is to promote the reining horse worldwide while celebrating and advancing the finest traditions of Western horsemanship. To learn more about NRHA, how to join, or to become a fan, visit nrha.com.