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• Photo by Primo Morales.

NRCHA Derby Finds New Venue for 2021

The National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) has found a new venue for the NRCHA Derby. The change will become effective in 2021.

The Pilot Point, Texas-based association announced Saturday, Sept. 5, that WestWorld of Scottsdale will host the 2021 NRCHA Derby presented by DT Horses LLC.

The move comes with a multi-year agreement, which means the event for 4- and 5-year-old reined cow horses will be at the Scottsdale, Arizona, facility through 2023.

“DT Horses’ support of the NRCHA Derby is an extension of our commitment to the reined cow horse industry as a whole,” said Dean Tuftin, a former National Finals Rodeo qualifier in team roping. “Events like the NRCHA Derby are a testing ground for the elite all-around equine athlete that we strive to breed and train at DT Horses, so we are proud to be aligned with NRCHA to make the Derby a lucrative and enjoyable event here in Scottsdale for owners, trainers and reined cow horse enthusiasts.”

The NRCHA Board of Directors determined that the move presents unique opportunities to grow and expand the popularity of the show, reaching new fans while increasing sponsor participation, the association said in its announcement. 

The event was traditionally held at the Paso Robles Event Center in Paso Robles, a city on California’s Central Coast roughly midway between the San Francisco and Los Angeles metropolitan areas. 

“Back in February, the NRCHA put out an official Request For Proposal seeking a community partner for the Derby,” said NRCHA President Corey Cushing. “Making a move like this is never easy, but I think we can all be excited to see the Derby held in a world-class, climate-controlled venue and bring with it an impressive level of added prize money. Not only do the facilities at WestWorld provide the perfect atmosphere for competitors, but the greater Scottsdale area offers many amenities for exhibitors to enjoy after the show.”