Second Year of Exponential Growth Fuels Upcoming Stock Horse of Texas World Show & Derby

Stock Horse of Texas continues to draw exhibitors from around the country to compete in ranch versatility events, and the 2022 Western Horseman World Championship Show & Ordner Insurance/American Reliable Insurance Derby is no exception. This year, the event grew with 10 new sponsors and by more than 80 entries, even with the newly required qualification to enter the World Show.

“Entries exceeded the 2021 show even though this is the first year we’ve had a qualification in place for the World Show,” said Jill Dunkel, Stock Horse of Texas (SHTX) executive director. “The decision to add a qualifier of attending at least one SHTX show was to reward our members with a world championship-caliber show and help curb outside entries to not add additional show days.”

More than 3,000 entries and more than 380 horses shown by competitors from 16 states are headed to the Taylor County Expo Center in Abilene, Texas, October 26 through 30 to compete in Cow Work, Reining, Stock Horse Trail and Stock Horse Pleasure in a two go-round format to determine the Stock Horse World Champions. Titles will be awarded in nine skill divisions ranging from Open to Novice, as well as two Youth divisions. Three collegiate individual champions will also be crowned, as well as Division I and Division II Collegiate World Champion Teams.

In addition to the World Show title sponsor, Western Horseman, and the Derby sponsor Ordner Insurance/American Reliable Insurance, sponsored special events such as the Welcome Party presented by the National Reined Cow Horse Association, Classic Equine Fence Work Showcase and the Adequan Exhibitor Party all await exhibitors and spectators at this year’s event. Arena Werks continues to support SHTX by helping to facilitate the best ground conditions for all exhibitors.

“With the support of our sponsors, we will pay out more than $42,000 and also over

$100,000 in cash and prizes that include buckles, tack and other gear,” Dunkel said.

With $10,000 added to the Ordner Insurance/American Reliable Insurance Derby, entries were up 23 percent over last year. Despite growth in exhibitors, the event will remain true to the SHTX fundamental focus of providing a family-friendly and fun environment.

“Our exhibitors are more like family than competitors, and that rings true at our World Show and our events throughout the year,” said SHTX President William Lewis. “They will cheer for each other throughout our 3,000 runs, watch every head of the 700-plus cattle run through and be prepared to enjoy the camaraderie during our evening special events. It’s truly a show and a membership like no other!”

The World Show and Derby are free to the public with all events held at the Taylor County Expo Center. Live scoring is available at HorseShowTracker.com. For additional information, visit www.StockHorseTexas.org.