This year’s 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel returns to Oklahoma City June 11–22 at the OKC Fairgrounds, marking a new chapter as the first international horse event to be held in the newly constructed OG&E Coliseum. “Having this beautiful new stage to welcome people from around the world and show them what OKC has to offer makes this a special moment that we all get to celebrate and be part of together,” said Sara Honegger, NRHA director of marketing. “It will continue to open doors for tourism and showcase what our city has to offer.” The NRHA Derby is one of the top five reining competitions in the world, drawing hundreds of riders and fans from across the globe. The event showcases 4- to 7-year-old horses and offers more than $1 million in added prize money. Last year’s competition paid out $1.67 million, attracted 700 riders, more than 1,000 horses and logged over 4,300 entries. Reining is a judged equestrian event that highlights a ranch horse’s athleticism and training in a show arena. Riders perform one of 13 designated patterns featuring circles, lead changes, spins, rollbacks and the signature sliding stops. The NRHA Judging System, which emphasizes a blend of technical precision, style and difficulty, has become the standard across many equine disciplines. NRHA DERBY RETURNS TO OKC, MARKS FIRST INTERNATIONAL EVENT IN NEW OG&E COLISEUM
The NRHA’s international headquarters is located at the OKC Fairgrounds, reinforcing the city’s role as a global hub for the sport. The organization has more than 15,000 members in nearly 40 countries across six continents. “When we talk about the equestrian industry in Oklahoma or refer to it as the horse show capital of the world, it truly is a national and international affair,” Honegger said. Hosting the NRHA Derby is just one way the city is embracing that reputation. The derby alone brings nearly $9 million in economic impact to OKC, while the NRHA Futurity—held from Thanksgiving through the first weekend of December—contributes an additional $18.5 million. While the Derby does not draw quite as many international competitors as the Futurity, it still attracts participants from around the world. For many, it’s more than a competition—it’s a celebration of Western heritage and the bond between horse and rider. “OKC is not only an incredible city to live in, but it is a hub for the growth of the Western industry—we haven’t always told that story to others, and we should be proud to share it,” Honegger said. One of the most anticipated events of the Derby is the Invitational Freestyle Reining presented by Visit OKC, held on June 19. Spectators can expect a vibrant display of style, especially during the Freestyle competition, where riders often don sparkling, detailed Western attire. Unlike traditional runs judged on specific patterns, Freestyle allows riders to choreograph their own routines to music, blending technical skill with creativity. This evening also features the Para Reining Championships sponsored by Hart Trailers and Dechra.
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