275 BC16p1A4-079schmersal72

Back From the NRBC

275 BC16p1A4-079schmersal72Craig and Cashing Black Chex stopping at the NRBC • Photo by Waltenberry

Hi All!

I just returned home from the National Reining Breeders Classic (NRBC) in Katy, Texas. It was an exciting show, starting off with torrential rains and flooding in Houston.

Classes were delayed and concessions made to allow all exhibitors the opportunity to show their horses. Many were unable to make it to the show grounds until after their scheduled show times. One reason I believe this show is so successful is the fact that it is run by horsemen and horsewomen. They are able to exercise common sense in dealing with exhibitors when conflicts present themselves. They structure riding times and schedule classes to end at reasonable hours so exhibitors can enjoy themselves at night with their friends. Sometimes I think show management forgets that people horse show for fun. It is not a job for them, so being able to go to dinner, get a good night’s sleep and enjoy themselves is foremost on their wish list in picking shows. I applaud the NRBC for doing that.

As for my personal experience, my horses were great. I was lucky to get two in the finals. The caliber of horses at this show was the best I have ever seen. Most of the finalists were champions of something. It was a great night of great horses and spectators. The audience was fun and cheered their favorites on as they went. Overall, it was a very fun show!

I am now focusing on my 3-year-olds and looking forward to the Rocky Mountain Reining Horse Association Summer Slide in Denver. This will be the first of several futurities for these horses. I generally like to show my 3-year-olds twice before I make a decision on who will be my best contenders for the NRHA Futurity. Over the years, I have learned that sometimes my favorites do not show the best and some of my “not sure’s” step up to be great horses. My clients and wife ask me weekly, “Who are your top three for Oklahoma City?” I cannot honestly answer that until I have shown them all at least twice, and then I will make my decision.

About Craig

Reining horse professional Craig Schmersal is the fourth-leading rider of all-time, with earnings of more than $3.2 million. Over the last decade, Craig has won almost all of the major reining events, often taking all three of his entries into the finals.