Shesouttayourleague and Casey Deary won the 2017 NRHA Derby Level 4 Open. • Photo by Waltenberry

NRHA Derby Returns in 2018 with a Full Slate of Special Events

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is gearing up for its premier event of the summer – the NRHA Derby! Hosted at State Fair Park in Oklahoma City, the Derby has something for the entire family, including free admission for the duration of the event.

Running from Saturday, June 23, through Sunday, July 1, this nine-day event will showcase 4-, 5- and 6-year-old reining horses competing for their share of more than $1 million in cash and prizes. With competitors of all ages and skill levels, the event features two full slates of ancillary reining classes in addition to the limited-age event action.

The Derby will also showcase the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) Western National Finals. The Western National Finals, sponsored by the NRHA, features 240 of the nation’s top middle school and high school Western riders from eight zones throughout the United States. Finalists competed in multiple events throughout their regular season and semifinals to qualify for the IEA National Finals.

The event will also feature a variety of activities including Cowboy Church, the Platinum Performance Derby Party, Pale Face Dunnit Ice Cream Party and Derby Celebration Party at McClintock Saloon & Chophouse in Stockyards City. Attendees can also shop a wide selection of jewelry, apparel, furniture and tack at the Western tradeshow held in the Super Barn, Barn Row and east concourse of the Jim Norick Arena.

For more information on schedules, draws and hotel accommodations, visit nrhaderby.com.