Non Pro (2) Champion, 8 & Up Non Pro Level 4, 3, and 2 Champion - Kyla Thurlow and Kachina Olena Tag
Kyla Thurlow and Kachina Olena Tag won the championship for the second slate of the ancillary Non Pro, as well as Levels 2, 3, and 4 of the 8 & Up Non Pro.
Kachina Olena Tag, otherwise known as “Facebook,” was bred by Samantha Smith. The 10-year-old gelding is sired by NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Whiz N Tag Chex and out of Kachina Oak Olena. For their multiple wins on the final day of competition, the duo collected $7,105.
“I can always count on him, as long as I do my job,” Thurlow said of Facebook. “I usually tell him right before I walk in, ‘Take care of your mom,’ and he always does.”
Facebook doesn’t just excel in the reining pen- Thurlow also shows him in the Ranch Riding events. Their next stop is The Ranch Horse Triple Crown Challenge, held during the APHA World Show in Fort Worth, Texas, next week.
Thurlow thanked her parents, her biggest supporters, and the teams at Mark Rafacz Reining Horses and Bud Lyon Performance Horses.

Int. Non Pro (2) Champion, 8 & Up Non Pro Level 2 & 1 Champion - Courtney Battison & Xtra Little Balou
Courtney Battison and her 10-year-old stallion Xtra Little Balou won the championship in the second slate of the Intermediate Non Pro, as well as the Level 1 & Level 2 of the 8 & Up Non Pro. The successful day in the Jim Norick Arena earned the pair a check for $6,376.
“Balou,” as the stallion is known around the barn, was bred by Ixtul Quarter Horses. He is sired by NRHA Twelve Million Dollar Sire Wimpys Little Step and out of Lil Chic Balou.
“He’s a unicorn horse for sure; he’s every little girl’s dream horse. Palomino, long mane, super gentle stallion, and so quiet I can keep him at the house,” Battison shared. “I made the Level 4 finals every time I showed him when he was derby age, which was a highlight of our show career for sure.”
Next up for this pair is qualifying for the Adequan® North American Affiliate Championships, which will take place during the NRHA Futurity.
Battison made sure to thank her dad, as well as her trainer, NRHA Million Dollar Rider Trevor Dare. Most importantly, she thanked her horse.

Prime Time Non Pro (2) Co-Champion - Anne-Marie Burns & Me And Julio
Anne-Marie Burns and Me And Julio won the Prime Time Non Pro (2) with a tied score of 214. Julio, as the 2014 gelding is nicknamed, was bred by Turn About Farm and is leased to Burns by his owner, Kevin Colston.
The gelding is by NRHA Five Million Dollar Sire Gunners Special Nite and out of Darlins Not Painted.
“He came in, and he did exactly what I asked him to do. He’s just a kind horse,” Burns said. The Sunday morning performance earned them $1,689.
After taking the last two years off to recover from an injury before he returned to the show pen at the NRHA Derby, Julio was ready to perform. From here, the pair will be showing in Kentucky before returning to Oklahoma to try to qualify for the Adequan® North American Affiliate Championship.
Burns thanked the Colston family for the opportunity and the entire McQuay team for their support.

Prime Time Non Pro (2) Co-Champion - Jennifer Greenleaf & Smart Lois
Jennifer Greenleaf and Smart Lois had a solid run in the Jim Norick Arena on the final day of competition. The pair tied to win the ancillary Prime Time Non Pro (2) with a score of 214. The win, along with placing in numerous other divisions, brought the day’s take to $4,250.
Smart Lois, a 2007 stallion bred by Jim Babcock, is by NRHA Seven Million Dollar Sire Smart Chic Olena and out of Lois Montana.
Non Pro & Prime Time High Point Champion - Morris Kulmer & NVR What A Lucky Joe
Morris Kulmer and NVR What A Lucky Joe finished the Derby as the ancillary Non Pro and Prime Time High Point Champions. Affectionately called Lucky Moe and Lucky Joe, the pair put together smooth runs all week to earn these titles.
NVR What A Lucky Joe, or Joey, is a 2014 gelding with lifetime earnings of $158,626. Bred by Gary Vickrey, Joey is by NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Lil Joe Cash and out of What A Lucky Hit.
“A good horse puts together a good run, but a great horse does it consistently,” Kulmer said. “Joey has been consistent for me for almost two years and that's what makes him a great horse.”
Kulmer thanked his wife for letting him ride Joey, and his trainer, Dan Huss, for his help.

Intermediate Non Pro High Point Champion - Kathleen Armenta & Off N Running
Kathleen Armenta and Off N Running, a 2015 gelding by NRHA Four Million Dollar Sire Walla Walla Whiz and out of Spook Off Sparks, won the Intermediate Non Pro High Point title. Off N Running was bred by Arcese Quarter Horses and has a lifetime earnings of $69,168. Armenta and the gelding were first in the Intermediate Non Pro (1), seventh in the Intermediate Non Pro (2), and ninth in the Level 3 Intermediate Non Pro 8+ to earn the title.

Youth 14 - 18 (2), Unrestricted Youth (2) Champion & High Point - Mary Riley Cachat & A Smalltown Trick
On Saturday evening, Mary Riley Cachat and A Smalltown Trick spun, circled, and slid their way to a 144 to finish second in the first ancillary slate of both the Youth 14-18 and Unrestricted Youth. On the final day of competition, the pair bested their score by a full point to not only win both classes in the second slate but also claim the High Point title for both divisions.
Bred by Mark Blackwell and owned by Mary Cachat, A Smalltown Trick is by Tricked Out Spook and out of A Smalltown Gal.
“This is my second year of owning him. I absolutely love him; he’s adorable. He has no brain cells, but we love him just as much, and i think that’s what makes him even more adorable,” she said with a laugh. “He’s just a solid, great horse who loves his job and does it willingly.”
Cachat also tied for second in the class on her other horse, Trashy Spookshow (Gunnatrashya x Spook Off Sparks).
She added that both of her horses are going to get a lot of love, cookies, and carrots before heading to the AQHA Youth World Show.
“I thank my trainer, Clemerson Barbahlo. It’s been an honor to work with him. I also thank my parents who have gotten me here,” she said.
Cachat, who had to move for college, extended a special thank you to her former trainers, Mike and Kristi Berg. “They’re back in California, and I’m sad I can’t continue riding with them. I would not be standing here without them.”

Youth 13 & Under (2) Champion - Kynley Ray Bell & Snap N Go
Kynley Bell and Snap N Go have had a busy week at the Derby. Not only did they compete in the Invitational Freestyle on Thursday, they also competed in both ancillary slates of the Youth 13 & Under.
While the pair’s score was good for a fourth-place finish in the first slate of the Youth 13 & Under, Bell was determined to improve. The duo stepped up their game on the event's final day to best their first score and win the second slate.
An 11-year-old mare, Snap N Go is by Master Snapper and out of Miss Jerry Cat. She was bred by Green Valley Ranch and is now owned by Kynley’s father Spence Bell.

Youth 13 & Under High Point - Lily Forzani & Annies Custom Pistol
Consistency was key for Lily Forzani and Annies Custom Pistol, who finished tied for reserve in the second slate after finishing second in the first slate. Those two solid runs secured the High Point title for Youth 13 & Under.
Annies Custom Pistol, owned by Lily’s parents, Doug and Deborah Forzani, was bred by McQuay Stables. The 11-year-old gelding is by NRHA Thirteen Million Dollar Sire Gunner and out of KR Anniegityergun.
“He’s a sweetheart, but he's a big goober,” Forzani said about the gelding.

Short Stirrup (2) Champion - Ellie Petroll & A Dandy Magnum
Ellie Petroll and A Dandy Magnum put together a solid run to mark a 140 and win the second slate of the ancillary Short Stirrup.
“I was very excited. At first, I didn’t think I was going to place this high, so this is really exciting for me,” Petroll shared. “I thank my dad, my mom, and my sister.”
A Dandy Magnum, a 15-year-old gelding bred by Viola Scott, is by NRHA Nine Million Dollar Sire Magnum Chic Dream and out of Rubitussin. He’s owned by Misty Brown.

Short Stirrup High Point - Olivia Faith Deary & Chicsdundreamin
On Saturday night, Oliva Faith Deary watched her father, NRHA Three Million Dollar Rider Casey Deary, take the Open Level 4 Championship at the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel.
On Sunday, the youngest Deary won some hardware of her own, with the High Point title for the Short Stirrup division.
Chicsdundreamin is a 16-year-old by NRHA Nine Million Dollar Sire Magnum Chic Dream out of Goody Goody Dun Drop. The gelding is owned by Deary’s grandmother, Nancy Stillwell.
“I feel amazing,” Deary said. “It feels really good to win right after my dad won last night.”
The youngest Deary thanked her parents, her grandparents, and her sisters.
Results, photos, videos, and more the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel can be found at NRHADerby.com.

June 24 - Casey Deary & Down Right Amazing Dazzle in Open Finals at 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel
Seats were filled and the excitement was palpable in the Norick Arena Saturday evening as the Open Finals for the 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel wrapped up. Riders of all open levels competed for the title of Derby champion with high scores that reflected their determination to succeed.

NRHA Derby Open Level 4 Derby Champion- Casey Deary & Down Right Amazing

In a run that had the crowd on the edge of their seats, NRHA Three Million Dollar Rider Casey Deary won the Open Level 4 Derby with a score of 231.5.
Deary rode Down Right Amazing, a 2017 stallion by NRHA Thirteen Million Dollar Sire Gunner and out of Shesouttayourleague. He was bred and nominated by Curtis Performance Horses and has been owned by DAG Ventures since he was 30 days old.
In 2020, despite sustaining a broken neck, Deary rode the talented stallion to a third-place win in the NRHA Futurity. Since then, this pair has also won first-place titles at the NRHA Derby in 2020, The 2023 American Performance Horseman, and the 2023 National Reining Breeders Classic.

“This horse, he’s just a soldier,” Deary said. “He’s a great-minded animal, and he just tries so hard every time we go out.”
The Saturday night performance sent the Deary crew home $95,000 richer, and the nominator, Curtis Performance Horses, will receive $5,000.
Deary thanked his wife and kids, DAG Ventures, his great set of veterinarians, and his team.

NRHA Derby Open Level 3 Champion and Level 2 Derby Co-Champion- Luca Fappani & Dream On Whiz

In an astounding show of talent, Luca Fappani and Dream On Whiz scored a 224, winning them the titles of Open Level 3 Champion and Open Level 2 Co-Champion.
Dream On Whiz, affectionately nicknamed Patrick, is owned by Joetta Bell. The 2017 gelding is by NRHA Nine Million Dollar Sire Magnum Chic Dream and out of Ms Sassy Whiz.

“I've just been so blessed to have an incredible horse like him and the other ones that I'm riding to compete at that level,” Fappani said.
Riding at that level, and winning, earned him a check worth $46,021.
Dream On Whiz was bred and nominated by Hill Country Reiners, who will also receive $2,422.
Fappani thanked NRHA Three Million Dollar Rider Casey Deary, Joetta Bell, and the whole time behind him for helping him achieve this win.

NRHA Derby Open Level 2 Derby Co-Champion-  Kyle Shaw & HF Whizedbymobster

With a turn of events they weren’t expecting, Kyle Shaw and HF Whizedbymobster tied to win the Open Level 2 Derby with a score of 224. In fact, the title was such a surprise that he had already changed out of his show clothes before the results were final.
“We’ve shown him a few times this year, and things are really clicking,” Shaw said. “We just tied to win the Level 2 Derby, and all I can say is, this feels better than losing!”
HF Whizedbymobster, or ‘Spud’ as he’s called at home, is a 2018 stallion by HF Mobster out of Diamond Steppin Whiz. He was bred by Heritage Farms and is owned by Rita Scharman.
Shaw will go home with a paycheck of $12,771, and the nominator, Heritage Farms, will receive $672.
“This is the place you want to be as the Derby is wrapping up, instead of thinking about what you could've done better,” Shaw said.
Shaw thanked Spud for sticking with him every step of the run, Scharman for allowing her to ride him, and NRHA Corporate Partner and Million Dollar Owner Bob and Arlene Santagata for allowing him to train at their facility, Santa Hill Ranch.

NRHA Derby Open Level 1 Derby- Shayla Malmbery & Snip Of A Dream

Shayla Malmberg, with her 2017 gelding, Snip Of A Dream, won the Open Level 1 Derby with a smooth run and a score of 218.5.
Snip Of A Dream is by NRHA Nine Million Dollar Sire Magnum Chic Dream and out of Snip O Chex, bred and nominated by Judy Box.
Just as her horse's name states, winning the Open Level 1 Derby really was a dream for Malmberg. Coming to Oklahoma City all the way from British Columbia, Canada, she had never attended the Derby before.
“This has been a huge experience, a lifelong dream,” Malmberg said. “It was great for my confidence, and he is an awesome horse.”
Although more nervous during the preliminary round than she was during the Finals, Malmberg did remarkably well in both, earning a nice payout for both herself and her nominator. Malmberg will take home $12,087 and her nominator will receive $636.
Malmberg thanked Jesse Beckley for coaching her through her nerves and Kyle Western for keeping things running at home.
Full results and news can be found at NRHADerby.com.

Ancillary Action Continues at 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel

The competition was fierce, and the scores were high in Adequan® Arena, the final Saturday of the 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel. The high point titles were awarded in the Toyon Ranch Rookie classes, and the first slate of youth and short stirrup classes capped off the day.

Toyon Ranch Rookie Level 1, 2, and Prime Time (2) & High Point - Kent Ray Taylor & Xtra Wimpys Catalyst

Marking a 143, Kent Ray Taylor made a clean sweep of the Toyon Ranch Rookie classes in the Adequan® Arena today, winning the second slate of the Level 1, Level 2, and Prime Time ancillary classes. He also won the High Point title for all three Levels with Xtra Wimpys Catalyst.

“Zorro,” as the handsome black stallion is affectionately known, is sired by NRHA Twelve Million Dollar Sire Wimpys Little Step and out of Im Not Blonde. Bred by Milholland Training Inc., the stallion has more than $61,000 in lifetime earnings.
Taylor has a background in the all around events, having shown AQHA with much success as a youth. After a 30-year hiatus, he returned to the show pen six years ago, earning countless titles at prestigious events like the AQHA World Show, All American Quarter Horse Congress, and NSBA World Show, under the guidance of Blake Weis.
When it comes to Taylor and Xtra Wimpys Catalyst, it was love at first sight. “I was at a horse show and hanging out with some friends of mine that showed all around horses, and (Zorro) came into the arena with NRHA Four Million Dollar Rider Craig Schmersal, and I was like, I want to own that horse,” Taylor explained. “It took me about a year to get him bought, but they finally sold him, and I’ve been as happy as I can be.”

Taylor was eager to thank his trainer, Mandy Faust, and Craig and Ginger Schmersal for their support. He also thanked NRHA Corporate Partner Toyon Ranch for paying the entry and judges fees for all the ancillary Rookie classes.
Up next for Taylor is the Inside Slide in Arizona and The Run For A Million. He will also be attending the EMO Championships in Las Vegas and the NSBA World Show with his string of all around horses.

Youth 13 & U nder (1) Champion – Sydney Muehlstaetter & Xtra Voodoo Step

Sydney Muehlstaetter won the first slate of the Youth 13 & Under aboard the 2012 mare, Xtra Voodoo Step.
Xtra Voodoo Step, or “Lola,” is sired by NRHA Twelve Million Dollar Sire Wimpys Little Step and out of Voodoo Chic. Owned by Frederick Christen and bred by Rogers Heaven Sent Ranch, the mare has lifetime earnings of more than $46,000.
“I just started riding her like five months ago. I showed her the first time at the High Roller,” Muehlstaetter said.
Up next for this team will be the second slate of the youth classes on Sunday, followed by Reining By The Bay in July.
Muehlstaetter thanked her parents and her trainer.

Youth 14–18 (1) & Unrestricted Youth (1) Champion – Michelle Fumagalli & Guns N Dreams

With a score of 145, Michelle Fumagalli and Guns N Dreams won the first slate of both the Youth 14-18 and Unrestricted Youth.
The 2015 gelding, sired by Tinker With Guns and out of Brennas Dream, was bred by Loren Booth and is owned by Smoking Roosters PH, LLC.
“Overall, he was just with me, and I didn't have to manage him too much. It was just a matter of showing smart,” Fumagalli said.
Fumagalli and “Blake,” as the gelding is known around the barn, are looking forward to The Run For A Million, where they are qualified in both the Youth and Non Pro divisions.
 “We wanted to qualify, and now we want to win it, obviously,” Fumagalli stated. “I think we can, I mean, he's marked bigger scores, you know, in the 220s. I’m excited.”
Fumagalli thanked her trainer, Dan Huss, his wife, Wendy, and her parents.

Short Stirrup (1) Champion – Avery Roper & Skeet Shooting Spook

Avery Roper and her 2011 gelding, Skeet Shooting Spook, won the first slate of the Short Stirrup with a score of 147.
Owned by Tim Roper and bred by NRHA Two Million Dollar Owner Rosanne Sternberg, the gelding is sired by NRHA Eight Million Dollar Sire Smart Spook and out of Snappy Skeet.
At only ten years old, Roper already has seven years of showing under her belt. She and “Bullet” have had a busy week, showing in the Youth, Green Reiner, and Rookie divisions, which all led up to the Short Stirrup.
Roper was sure to thank her grandpa for the purchase of her horse, her grandma for making great food, her mom and dad for letting her show, both of her aunts for all of their help, her sisters for their support, her uncle for his help, her trainer, Brian Bell, and, of course, Bullet.

June 23 - Schumacher Pilots CS Sailing Gun to Win Non Pro Championship at 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel
After the storms of the day, it was a cool Friday evening, but the competition quickly heated things up at the 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby Derby presented by Markel in the Jim Norrick Arena for the Non Pro Derby Finals.

NRHA Derby Level 4 Non Pro Champion- Gina-Maria Schumacher & CS Sailing Gun

In an astounding show of talent from both horse and rider, Gina-Maria Schumacher won the Level 4 Non Pro Derby with CS Sailing Gun while also placing in the top five with her two other entries, Legendary Whizkey (Whizkey N Diamonds x Legends Lil Squeeze) and Gunin Addy Tude (Gunnatrashya x Miss Lil Addy Tude).
Her smooth run earned a score of 224.5, placing her firmly in the lead by 1.5 points. Her other runs held a tie of third place with a score of 221 and fifth place with a score of 220.5. The Championship came with a big check for $50,000; her other two finishes brought her take for the evening to just under $70,000.
“He was good everywhere,” Schumacher, an NRHA Million Dollar Rider, said of CS Sailing Gun with a smile. “I just couldn’t have asked for anything more.”
CS Sailing Gun is by Gunners Enterprise and out of La Bigia Sailor and was bred and owned by XCS Ranch. He was nominated by CS Ranch, who will be receiving a payout of $2,500.
Schumacher thanked NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider Duane Latimer, her parents, and her whole crew for their help with the accomplishment, although she said it really hadn’t sunk in yet.
Winning an event as large as the NRHA Non Pro Derby is a high point for any rider's career, and for Schumacher and CS Sailing Gun, it’s ending on a high note. CS Sailing Gun will be carrying a new rider from here on out, which makes this moment beyond bittersweet.
“It’s pretty sad, to be honest, because I really love him, but it’s a good way to finish,” Schumacher says.

NRHA Derby Level 3 Non Pro Co-Champion- Samantha Kapu & Chics Get The Chex
Samantha Kapu and Chics Get The Chex started off the Non Pro finals strong as the first draw, and it paid off, as they were co-champions in the Level 3 with a score of 219. The pair also finished seventh in the Level 4, bringing their total earnings for the night to $20,468.
The 2018 stallion, sired by NRHA Nine Million Dollar Stallion Magnum Chic Dream and out of Big Gold Chex, was bred by Garth Hystad and nominated by NRHA Million Dollar Owner Casey Hinton, who will also receive $1,077.
“I just wanted to go in and beat my last score. I was showing against myself- that was my mentality going in, especially being draw number one,” Kapu said. “I just wanted to go in there and make a statement with that first stop.”
Between his phenomenal performance tonight, and his win in the Storybook Stables Amateur class during the Non Pro Preliminaries earlier this week, the stallion has earned some time off.
“He's going to get spoiled, and he'll definitely get a couple of weeks off.” Kapu shared. “We’re going to just trail ride him for a bit.”
Kapu thanked her trainer, NRHA Professional Ashley Kelkenberg, her mother, and her husband for their support.

NRHA Derby Non Pro Level 3 Co-Champion and Level 2 Champion- Rita Clausen & Xtra Kiss Me Again
During the Level 4 Non Pro Finals, Rita Clausen accomplished things many riders only dream about. Aboard Xtra Kiss Me Again, Clausen marked a 219 to win the Level 3 Co-Championship and Level 2 Championship. She also finished as reserve champion in the Youth division and seventh in the Level 4, for total earnings of $35,887. Nominator Silver Spurs Equine will also receive $1,827.
“Camo,” as the 6-year-old gelding is affectionately known, is sired by Boom Shernic and out of SS Kiss Me Kate. Owned by Clay Clausen, Camo has lifetime earnings of more than $64,000. Clausen and Camo have only been a team for two years, having purchased him as a four-year-old from her trainer, NRHA Four Million Dollar Rider Craig Schmersal.
“I was a little uneasy after the prelims because he got hot in the rundown. So I was worried about that. But we worked on him a lot, and so last night, I was feeling confident. I was excited to show,” Clausen said. Her confidence certainly paid off when she and Camo executed a textbook run.
“He turned really good, and he circled amazingly. Like, I can never even imagine circling him better than that,” Clausen said of her run.
Clauson thanked her parents and sisters, her trainer Craig Schmersal, Mandy Faust, and the entire Schmersal team.
NRHA Derby Level 1 Non Pro Champion- Kalicia Walters and Raisinthebar
Kalicia Walters and Raisinthebar won the Level 1 Non Pro Derby Finals with a score of 217. The 2018 mare, by PS Mega Shine Chic and out of Chic In The Bar, owned by Diamond Dub Quarter Horses, has been shown by Walters for two years.
Celebrating in Oklahoma City on Finals night was her family and her trainers, both of whom she thanked for their help getting to this point.
Walters will go home with a payout of $4,750, and Raisnthebar’s nominator, Adh-Mor Ranch, will receive $250.
“This mare needed me to come out with the confidence that I had tonight,” Walters said. “I was able to trust her in her circles and just ask for more than what I have been, and so I'm really proud of her.”
From here, Walters plans to take the mare for a long stretch of shows, attending the Reining By The Bay in California, The Run For A Million, The 100X, and then the High Roller.

NRHA Derby Prime Time & Masters Champion- Michael Garnett & Thundrstruk
With a beautiful run, Michael Garnett and Thundrstruk earned a score of 219 (including handicap) and won both the Prime Time and Masters Championship. The duo also took third in the Level 2 and fifth in the Level 3, for total earnings of $16,684.
Thundrstruk, a six-year-old known in the barn as Herman, is by NRHA Five Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Whiz and out of Flashy Tackie Kac. The talented stallion was bred and nominated by Stanley Coats, who will receive $614
“Sometimes he’ll get a little nervous and excited, but he’s never said ‘No, I’m not going to do that’ about what I ask him,” Garnett said.
Garnett thanked his trainer, NRHA Million Dollar Rider Martin Muehlstatter, and NRHA Million Dollar Rider Kole Price for their help getting them ready for this show.

NRHA Derby Non Pro Youth Champion- Emma Vanlandingham & SHR Hollywood Kid
The cheering was deafening, and a path was quickly cleared for her parents as they excitedly ran to her at the announcement of the score of 221 that earned Emma Vanlandingham the title of Non Pro Youth Derby Champion.
Vanlandingham rode SHR Hollywood Kid, a 2019 mare by The Kids Gotta Gun, and out of Shinin In Hollywood, owned by NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider Jason Vanlandingham and nominated by NRHA Million Dollar Owner Robert Santagata.
“I couldn’t be more happy with her right now,” Vanlandingham said. “She is an amazing horse, and this is the highest score I’ve ever marked on her.”
Not only did she win the Youth title, Vanlandingham also finished third in the Level 4, for total earnings of $11,947. SHR Hollywood Kid’s nominator, Santagata, will take home $523.
At only 14 years old, Vanlandingham is already a show stopper in the pen, and the crowd in the Jim Norick let her know how impressed they were.
“It’s just so awesome to have everybody as in love with your run as you are, and it's just so cool,” Vanlandingham said regarding the crowd's energy level.
She took the time to thank her parents for supporting and coaching her, as well as Robert (Bob) and Arlene Santagata for selling them the mare.
Competition at the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel continues through Sunday, June 25. For a complete schedule, draws, results, and more, visit NRHADerby.com.

Defreitas Wins Novice Horse Open Ancillary Titles at 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel
The Ancillary competition continued today in the Adequan Arena at the 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel, with the conclusion of the Novice Horse Open classes. Jimmy van der Hoeven, Jorge Puente, and Peter Defreitas took home championships for the second slate, and Defreitas had a clean sweep of the High Point awards for all three levels.

Novice Horse Open Level 1, 2, and 3 High Point, and Level 1 (2) Champion - Peter Defreitas & Keep On Th Sunnyside
Peter DeFreitas and Keep On Th Sunnyside kept up their winning streak from earlier this week by taking home the championship in the second slate of the Level 1 Novice Horse Open and the High Point for all three levels.
Keep On Th Sunnyside, a 2017 mare bred by Double Run Farm, is sired by Shine On Line and out of Conquistadors Sandy. The 6-year-old mare is owned by Carlton and Khris Crowe.
“I thought that she probably even showed a little bit better in some spots than she did the first day,” DeFreitas said. “She turned both directions well, circled well, and ran down the pen and got stopped.”
DeFreitas describes the mare as “consistent,” stating, “She can be a little goofy and stuff, but she seems to fit me. If she’s prepared, she just does her job. She’s pretty simple that way.”
After her success at this show, Keep On Th Sunnyside is getting much-deserved time off before heading to Waco, Texas, for the One Hot Reining show.

Novice Horse Open Level 2 (2) Champion - Jimmy Van der Hoeven & Wimpy Pale Face
Jimmy van der Hoeven and Wimpy Pale Face, a 2017 stallion, won the second slate of the Novice Horse Open Level 2.
“Timmy,” as he is affectionately known, is sired by NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire Pale Face Dunnit and out of Wimpys Lil Doll. Bred by Tim Anderson, the stallion is now owned by Margaret McNamara.
The 6-year-old stallion is a newer addition to Van der Hoeven’s show string, only joining the barn about six weeks ago. A could bobbles in the open preliminaries earlier in the week kept the pair out of the Finals. With the intention of getting Timmy dialed back in before their next show, Van der Hoeven entered the stallion in the Novice Horse Open and was pleased.
“My plan was to go in there and make him at least turn fast, and then I went kind of easier on my circles, just made it comfortable,” explained Van Der Hoeven. “I was gonna see if he stopped better. And he did. It's actually really good. I was happy with him. He's a very sweet horse.”
Next up for Wimpy Pale Face is the APHA World Show in Fort Worth, Texas, where the stallion will be shown in the Open Derby.

Novice Horse Open Level 3 (2) Champion - Jorge Puente & Dual Reality
Jorge Puente and Dual Reality, a 2013 gelding, won the Novice Horse Open Level 3 (2). Dual Reality is by Mister Nicudual and out of Snip O Chex, bred by Cinder Lakes Ranch, with lifetime earnings of $18,377.
“This horse, he just likes his job,” Puente said about Dual Reality. “He’s a big turner, has smooth circles, and he’s just happy about it.”
Between Puente and Dual Reality’s owner, Kristen Suggs-Bohrer, the gelding has been shown every weekend for the last month, but there are no plans for where they’ll be hauling him to next.
Puente was most grateful to his team at home, making it possible for him to be at shows, and to Suggs-Bohrer for providing him the opportunity to ride the gelding.

June 22 - Taylor Zimmerman Wins Invitational Freestyle presented by OKCVB

In the second annual $20,000-added Freestyle Reining presented by Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau held at the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel, 12 creative and captivating runs were performed by riders of all levels. The exciting evening started on a celebratory note when the Level 4 Non Pro Finalists were introduced, setting the tone of impressive riding and friendly competition.

Photo by NRHA Media and Chelsea Schneider Media

From patriotic tributes to rocking choreography, the Thursday night crowd was entertained. Then, competition heated up.
For Taylor Zimmerman, every hour spent in the saddle with the horse she grew up with, Its All About Ruf, has been golden. As a tribute to their time together, they performed to JVKE’s Golden Hour.
Its All About Ruf, who she calls TJ, is a 2016 stallion by NRHA Million Dollar Sire Not Ruf At All and out of Dun Pretty Nifty, with a lifetime earnings of $88,081. 

With as much as TJ has already given Zimmerman, he took it to the next level with a ride that earned a score of 230.5 and the Championship of the Invitational Freestyle. This score is currently the highest score marked at the Derby this year.
This year's freestyle reining had $20,000 of added prize money presented by the OKCVB.  Zimmerman plans to donate a portion of her $6,280 in winnings to longtime friend of the reining industry, Jennifer Reynolds.
“This is such a special event, and she’s just a special person. It’s important to recognize the people in our industry going through a hard time and support them, so I just wanted to do this for her,” Zimmerman said.
The performance featured Zimmerman in a white jumpsuit with gold decorations, and TJ was decked out with gold tinsel in his mane and tail, along with meticulously placed sparkly stars along his hind end.
Although Zimmerman ending up with TJ as her show horse was a lucky accident, it resulted in several great years, leading up to tonight's freestyle run being one of their last competitions together.
“He fell into my hands, and we’ve been a pair ever since,” Zimmerman said. “This is our last big event together, but he’ll be with me forever.”
For a schedule, results, news, and more, visit NRHADerby.com.

Ancillary Novice Horse Non Pro Titles Awarded at 6666 Derby presented by Markel
The Novice Horse Non Pro classes wrapped up today in the Adequan® Arena at the 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel on Thursday, June 22. After 108 entries spread across three levels, and a run-off tiebreaker in the Level 2, Sarah Grace McNally and Kary Key came home with class wins, while Alicia Rapp and Melissa Wigen took home high-point buckles.

Novice Horse Non Pro Level 1 & 2 High Point - Alicia Rapp & CS Just Viintage
Alicia Rapp and CS Just Viintage, a 2019 mare, won the High Point for both the Novice Horse Non Pro Level 1 and Level 2 at the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel.
CS Just Viintage, or “Missy,” as she is affectionately known, is sired by Platinum Vintage and out of Snow Town and was bred by XCS Ranch, LLC.
With this only being their second time in the show pen together, Rapp is very pleased with Missy’s performance this week. “She's proven to me here that she wants to be a show horse, so it's been a great experience,” Rapp explained.
“I tried to step her up a little bit today just to see if she would hang with me. And she did… I felt like our circles were really strong, and our stops are getting better and better,” Rapp shared of the pair’s run in the second slate..
Rapp thanked her long-time trainer, Ted Chancey, as well as her equine chiropractor and acupuncturist, Mari Little.

Novice Horse Non Pro Level 1 & 3 (2) Champion - Sarah Grace McNally & Smartys Bea
Sarah McNally and Smartys Bea won the second slate of the Level 1 and Level 3 Novice Horse Non Pro. They were also reserve in the Level 2 after a tie-breaking run-off.
Smartys Bea, a 2017 mare sired by Colonels Smart Spook and out of Bea With a Twist, was bred by Monte Strusiner.
“She's a wonderful horse, under saddle and on the ground,” McNally said. “She really likes to have a job. Under saddle, she is the most consistent and calm and loving horse. My four-year-old daughter does leadline on her at our local shows. She’s a wonderful mare, we love her so much.”
The pair scored their personal high score at this show, with a 72.5 under one of the judges and a 144.5 overall. Up next for this duo is the All Star Reining Stakes in Ocala, Florida.
McNally made a point to thank her trainers, Tricia Tillman and Austin Morris, as well as Bob LaPorta. Most of all, she thanked her mother, who has supported her since her youth career in AQHA, calling her the “best show mom you could ever imagine.”

Novice Horse Non Pro Level 2 (2) Champion - Kary Key & Spookadeous
Kary Key and Spookadeous won the second slate of the ancillary Level 2 Novice Horse Non Pro after a tie-breaking run-off.
Spookadeous is a 2018 stallion, sired by NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Gun, out of Trash N For Chex, and bred by Key and her mother, Pat Fletcher.
“He's five, but he's really just coming into his own this year,” Key said. “We did stuff last year, but he's had such a big change this year. Every day he gets better.”
Not only is Spookadeous becoming a fabulous show horse, but he also has a big personality. “He's always looking for his cookie. This horse works for food. So, for example, if I get back in the aisleway and I don't have cookies for him, I will probably be disowned,” Key explained, laughing.
Key has big goals for this homebred stallion. “I want to make the finals of the major events… we were Level 1 at the NRBC, but I want to be a Level 4 finalist. I think this horse can do it, but I hope I can learn how to do it as well,” she said.
Key thanked her mother, Pat Fletcher, who bred Spookadeous, as well as most of the horses that Key has had in her show string. She also thanked Naike Bell and the entire Brian Bell barn, stating that she is always “striving to be a little Brian Bell” when she shows.

Novice Horse Non Pro Level 3 High Point - Melissa Wigen & Starlight Escalade
Melissa Wigen and Starlight Escalade won the Level 3 Novice Horse Non Pro High Point title.
Starlight Escalade, sired by NRHA Million Dollar Sire Starlights Wrangler out of Escalante Chic, was bred by Adair Reiners, LLC.
Wigen and her 9-year-old gelding, known around the barn as “Rascal,” had a week full of improvements and hard work leading up to this High Point win, coming off a great year in 2022. “We’ve been working on making it correct and working on finesse,” explained Wigen.
As a horse trainer’s wife, Wigen got the advice she needed to hear today, to just go in and have fun, and accomplished just that. The pair also avoided the penalty box, a goal Wigen had after her ride earlier this week.
While her future plans with Rascal are not set in stone, Wigen is excited at the prospect of showing the gelding again on Sunday, as well as in Denver, and potentially the Run For A Million in Las Vegas. This week, she is also excited to cheer on her daughter, Kendall, and her husband, Travis.
Competition continues Friday in the Adequan® Arena with the second slate of the Novice Horse Open classes. It will be followed by the first section of the Toyon Ranch Rookie Free For All. Find draws, results, news, and more at NRHADerby.com.

June 21 - Non Pros Are Finals Bound at the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel

The wait is over, and the Non Pro finalists for the 2023 edition of the 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel have been decided. Over three days, the field of 306 Non Pro entries was whittled down to the crème de le crème who get to compete in Friday’s clean slate finals.

To put it mildly, the preliminary round was the Gina Schumacher Show. The NRHA Million Dollar Rider not only qualified all three of her entries back to the Level 4 Non Pro Finals, but she also finished in the top three spots of the preliminary round.
Schumacher topped the round on CS Sailing Gun (Gunners Enterprise x La Bigia Sailor), nominated by CS Ranch Management, and took second on Legendary Whizkey (Whizkey N Diamonds x Legends Lil Squeeze), nominated by Steven Simon. Schumacher rounded out the top three with Gunin Addy Tude (Gunnatrashya x Miss Lil Addy Tude), nominated by Toyon Ranch.
Still, she didn’t stop there, also topping the Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Non Pro Derby on CS Nifty Sailor (Gotta Nifty Gun x La Bigia Sailor), nominated by CS Ranch Management. The pair also finished in the Top 5 of the Colston Paving Inc. Non Pro Stakes.
Schumacher will compete again on Friday in the clean-slate Finals with the rest of the top 30 from the Non Pro Level 4. Also earning a spot in the Finals will be the top 30 in Non Pro Levels 3-1, the top 20 in the Prime Time Non Pro and Youth Non Pro, and the top 15 in the Masters Non Pro.

For the first time ever, the Level 4 Non Pro Champion will be presented with a check for $50,000 - up from $30,000 in 2022. The other division payouts are as follows:
Level 3 - $20,000
Level 2 - $15,000
Level 1 - $5,000
Prime Time - $5,000
Masters - $2,000
Youth - $2,000
According to NRHA Chief Financial Officer John Foy, the purses for Non Pro Derby Levels 1-4 are, as with the Open, record-breakers for the second year in a row. “It’s back-to-back years of record-breaking purses for those levels, which is cool to see,” he shared. “The other nugget that is great to see is that the combined total added money for both the Open and Non Pro Levels 1-4 exceeded $700,000 for the first time. This year the added money is $720,844, up from $679108 in 2022.”

Unofficially, the scores needed to advance to the Finals are:
Level 4 - 215
Level 3 - 214
Level 2 - 213.5
Level 1 - 209.5
Prime Time - 213.5 (includes handicap)
Masters - 210.5 (includes handicap)
Youth - 209

Winning each division of the Non Pro preliminary round are:
Level 4 – Gina-Maria Schumacher & CS Sailing Gun – 221
Gunners Enterprise x La Bigia Sailor
Nominated by CS Ranch Management, owned by XCS Ranch LLC
Level 3 – Samantha Kapu & Chics Get The Chex – 218Magnum Chic Dream x Big Gold Chex
Bred and Nominated by Casey Hinton, Owned by Samantha Kapu
Level 3, Level 2, & Youth – Rita Clausen & Xtra Kiss Me Again – 218
Boom Shernic x SS Kiss Me Kate
Bred and Nominated by Silver Spurs Equine, Owned by Clay Clausen
Level 1 & Prime Time – Paul Queen & Makendiamonds – 216.5 (219.5 with handicap)
Whizkey N Diamonds x Makeit In Tinseltown
Bred by CDR Farms, Nominated by Carrie Rhodes, Owned by Dorothy Queen
Masters – Jose Vazquez & Snow Guns Last Dream – 218.5
Magnum Chic Dream x Snow Gun
Bred by Andre De Bellefeuille, Nominated by Equine Plus, Owned by Smart Like Juice Inc.
While the preliminary round determined the finalists for Friday, it also determined the champions of the Colston Paving Inc. Non Pro Stakes, the Story Book Stables Amateur, the Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Non Pro Derby, and the American Paint Horse Association Chrome Cash. Those awards were presented following the preliminary round. The winners of those divisions are:
Story Book Stables Amateur – Samantha Kapu & Chics Get The Chex – 218
 Magnum Chic Dream x Big Gold Chex
 Bred and Nominated by Casey Hinton, Owned by Samantha Kapu
Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Non Pro Derby – Gina Schumacher & CS Nifty Sailor – 217.5
Gotta Nifty Gun x La Bigia Sailor
Nominated by CS Ranch Management, Owned by XCS Ranch LLC
Colston Paving, Inc. Non Pro Stakes – Molly Morgenstern & Aphrodites Gotvoodoo
Shiners Voodoo Dr x One Mighty Aphtodite
Bred and Nominated by Double Run Farm, Owned by Molly Morgenstern
Colston Paving, Inc. Non Pro Stakes & APHA Chrome Cash –  Jose Vazquez & Snow Guns Last Dream
Magnum Chic Dream x Snow Gun
Bred by Andre De Bellefeuille, Nominated by Equine Plus, Owned by Smart Like Juice Inc.
The Non Pro Finals will be held Friday, June 23, beginning at 9 a.m. For complete results and other information, visit NRHADerby.com.

Vazquez, Morgenstern, Schumacher, and Kapu Win Early Titles at 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel
Three days of action-packed competition drew to a close Wednesday at the 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel. Not only were the Finalists for the Non Pro Derby determined, the champions of the Colston Paving Inc. Non Pro Stakes, the Story Book Stables Amateur, the Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Non Pro Derby, and the American Paint Horse Association Chrome Cash Incentive were crowned.

Colston Paving Inc. Non Pro Stakes Co-Champion - Molly Morgenstern & Aphrodites Gotvoodoo
Molly Morgenstern and Aphrodites Gotvoodoo were Co-Champions in the Colston Paving Inc. Non-Pro Stakes with a 218.5, earning a check for $10,641.
“I kind of just wanted to press around and see what I had waiting for me,” Morgenstern explained. “Every place in the pen that I checked on her, she was right there and asking me what was next.”
Aphrodites Gotvoodoo, or “Marie,” as she’s known around the barn, was bred and nominated by Double Run Farm. The mare is by NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire Shiners Voodoo Dr and out of One Mighty Aphrodite.
“She has just been a little dynamo,” Morgenstern explained. “She’s very small but has come in with a bigger heart than any other horse that I've ever had the chance to show.”
Morgenstern was very excited to be part of this 4-year-old stakes event. “With a four-year-old, you think you kind of know what you're bringing into the show, but they're certainly not as mature and as dependable as your older guys,” she said.
Morgenstern and Marie are headed into the Non Pro Finals on Friday, June 23. Morgenstern thanked Peter DeFreitas for matching her up with Marie, her friends and family for their support, and Colston Paving for sponsoring the Non Pro Stakes.
Colston Paving Inc. Non Pro Stakes Co-Champion - Jose Vazquez & Snow Guns Last Dream

When NRHA Seven Million Dollar Rider Shawn Flarida suggested Jose Vazquez buy a 4-year-old reiner named Snow Guns Last Dream, Vazquez didn’t hesitate.
That’s because the two NRHA Hall of Famers have teamed up successfully many times before.
“Shawn trained this horse and has trained a bunch for me in the past, including ones I won with at NRBC and here,” Vazquez shared. “He knows what I ride and what I need.”
It appears Flarida was correct, as Vazquez, an NRHA Million Dollar Rider, and Snow Guns Last Dream teamed up to mark a 218.5 in the Non Pro preliminary round of the Derby. That high score not only guaranteed them a spot in the Finals, where the Level 4 Champion will win a guaranteed $50,000, but it also secured the Colston Paving Inc. Non Pro Stakes Co-Championship, worth an impressive $10,641.
“I’m excited and happy right now,” Vazquez said. “Thank you to the Colstons. What they have done by sponsoring this class is unbelievable, and I hope it continues. Without sponsors like them, the shows wouldn’t be what they are now.”
Snow Guns Last Dream is by NRHA Nine Million Dollar Sire Magnum Chic Dream and out of Snow Gun. The 4-year-old gelding was bred by NRHA Million Dollar Owner Andre De Bellefeuille and nominated by Equine Plus.
Flarida trained and showed the flashy gelding, and Vazquez purchased the colt just before the NRBC. For those knowledgeable in the reining industry, it’s a bit of a shock seeing Vazquez compete on a horse that’s unrelated to his NRHA Four Million Dollar Smart Like Juice.
“You can count on one hand the horses I’ve ridden that aren’t related to Juice, but when Shawn talked to me about this horse, there was no way I could pass up the opportunity,” he explained.
Vazquez, who has been in the reining industry for more than 25 years, added, “I have a lot of good people who pick me up, and many who have been with me a long time. Winning is a team effort. Without the team and your family, this is not possible.”

Story Book Stables Amateur Champion – Samantha Kapu & Chics Get The Chex
Samantha Kapu and Chics Get The Chex, a 2018 stallion with lifetime earnings of $15,691, won the Story Book Stables Amateur class with a score of 218, adding to this LTE by $5,533.
After finishing up at the NRHA Derby, Kapu plans to give Chics Get The Chex some time off while she works on nurse practitioner school until she shows him at the High Roller in Las Vegas.
Chics Get The Chex is by NRHA Nine Million Dollar Sire Magnum Chic Dream and out of Big Gold Chex. He was bred and nominated by Casey Hinton.
“Thank you to my mom, my husband, all my family, and my trainer,” Kapu said, smiling proudly.
Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Non Pro Novice Horse Derby Champion - Gina Schumacher & CS Nifty Sailor

Gina Schumacher and CS Nifty Sailor won the Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Non Pro Derby with a score of 217.5. The duo also finished in the top five of the Colston Paving Inc. Non Pro Stakes, bringing their total earnings from the preliminary round to $9,521.
CS Nifty Sailor is a 2019 stallion by Gotta Nifty Gun and out of La Bilgia, owned by XCS Ranch. The lines for CS Nifty Sailor have stayed in Schumacher's family for several generations, making it even more special for her that she was able to bring this gelding to the NRHA Derby.
“I just want all of our homegrown horses to do well, and this one was even more exciting to me because of how special he is,” Schumacher said.
In addition to her win on CS Nifty Sailor, the NRHA Million Dollar Rider qualified all three of her Level 4 entries back to the Non Pro Finals and finished in the top three spots of the preliminary round.
Schumacher topped the round on CS Sailing Gun (Gunners Enterprise x La Bigia Sailor), nominated by CS Ranch Management, and took second on Legendary Whizkey (Whizkey N Diamonds x Legends Lil Squeeze), nominated by Steven Simon. Schumacher rounded out the top three with Gunin Addy Tude (Gunnatrashya x Miss Lil Addy Tude), nominated by Toyon Ranch.
Schumacher took the time to thank everyone working on the show for their work in making the derby possible.
The 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel continues through Sunday, June 25. Find draws, results, and more at NRHADerby.com.

Defreitas, Bell & Gauthier Win Novice Horse Open Titles at 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel
Wednesday was a full day of competition in the Adequan® Arena at the 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel. The first slate of the Novice Horse Open classes was held, with the three levels run concurrently. The 133-entry class proved tough, and in the end, Peter Defreitas, Brian Bell, and Josiane Gauthier rode away with the wins.

Novice Horse Open Level 1 (1) Champion, Level 2 (1) Co-Champion - Peter DeFreitas & Keep On Th Sunnyside
Peter Defreitas and Keep On Th Sunnyside have been the model of consistency this year, but the pair had yet to compete on a run-in pattern.
That changed Wednesday at the NRHA Derby, with Pattern 9 chosen for the first slate of Novice Horse Open classes.
Defreitas and the big-stopping mare delivered, nailing the first stop and executing the rest of the pattern well to earn a 146.5. That score not only won the Novice Horse Open Level 1 but also tied for the win of the Level 2 and was good for the Reserve title in the Level 3.
“I was excited about this because she’s such a big stopper. She really hit that stop, then turned good to the right. Her left turn could have been just a little better, but she circled really well and finished up with good stops,” Defreitas recalled. “Her big lick is running and stopping. I know it doesn’t matter what’s happening because she’s going to stop big.”
Keep On Th Sunnyside is by Shine On Line and out of Conquistadors Sandy. The 6-year-old mare was bred by Double Run Farm and is now owned by Carlton and Khris Crowe.
“I’ve been showing her in the novice horse this year. She’s a very nice and quiet mare, and I’m happy I get to show her. She can get a little fresh, but when it’s time to horse show, she’s all business,” Defreitas said. “As many times as I’ve shown her this year, she seems to just keep getting better.”
Defreitas and Keep On Th Sunnyside will show again this week in the second slate of the Novice Horse Open. “If she keeps doing well, we’re going to keep showing in this division and hope we can win one of the NRHA World titles. Right now, we’re up there, so we’re just going to see what happens,” he said.
Novice Horse Open Level 2 (1) Co-Champion - Brian Bell & Spookadeous

Brian Bell and Spookadeous, a 2018 gelding, won the Novice Horse Open Level 1 (1) with a tie on a score of 146.5. Spookadeous, by NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Gun out of Trash N For Chex, was bred and is owned by Kary Key.
With only a day's notice to prepare to show Spookadeous, Bell, an NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider, focused on getting in tune with the horse, known in the barn as ‘Bruce.’ Known for his large, fast, smooth-as-butter circles, Bruce was a ride that Bell enjoyed.
“I liked having this horse in the barn before I showed him,” Bell said. “But now that I’ve shown him, I like him even more. He was honest, and he played on the team.”
Bell will not be showing Bruce again at the Derby but will be riding in the Open finals and coaching five other riders in the Non Pro finals. He thanked his wife, son, and clients for allowing any of this to be possible.
Novice Horse Open Level 3 (1) Champion - Josiane Gauthier & Xtra Step Doctor

Josiane Gauthier and Xtra Step Doctor won the Novice Horse Open Level 3 (1) with a score of 148.
Xtra Step Doctor is a 2018 stallion by NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire Shiners Voodoo Dr and out of Xtra Ruby Step, bred by Ixtul Quarter Horses. Gauthier had purchased the horse as a two-year-old at the NRHA Futurity and sold him as a three-year-old. Luckily, he ended up back as the horse of one of her clients, Nancy Alford, who allowed her to show him today.
“He’s just got a big heart, big turns, and lots of try, and you just can’t teach a horse to be like that,” Gauthier said.
Gauthier won’t show Xtra Step Doctor again during this year's Derby but is eagerly awaiting other opportunities to be in the pen with him again after previously competing on him at the National Reining Breeders Classic and The Run For The Million Shootout.
She thanked her family, her husband, those helping her care for her horses during the show, and Alford for letting her ride Xtra Step Doctor.
Ancillary action continues Thursday with the second slate of the NRHA Novice Horse Non Pro classes. A complete schedule, results, link to the live webcast, and more can be found at NRHADerby.com.

June 20 - Gina-Maria Schumacher Leads Non Pro Preliminaries at 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel

The Non Pro preliminary round of the 2023 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel continued today, with 104 exhibitors competing for their spot in the finals.

Gina-Maria Schumacher & CS Sailing Gun. Photo by NRHA by Chelsea Schneider Media

The top 30 in the Non Pro Levels 4-1, the top 20 in the Prime Time Non Pro and Youth Non Pro, and the top 15 in the Masters Non Pro will advance to the clean-slate finals on Friday, June 23, in the Jim Norick Arena.
The draw for the finals will take place during the Platinum Performance Non Pro Draw and Welcome Party on Wednesday, June 21, at 6:30 p.m. in the Centennial Building. This welcome party also features Reiners Rope, a fundraiser that benefits the Reining Horse Foundation Dale Wilkinson Memorial Crisis Fund.
The preliminary round determines who will compete in the clean-slate finals on Friday, June 23, and decides the champions of the $15,000-added Story Book Stables Amateur, the $10,000-added Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Non Pro Novice Horse Derby, the $50,000-added Colston Paving, Inc. Non Pro Stakes, and the American Paint Horse Association Non Pro Chrome Cash.
Beginning in 2023, the added money in already-lucrative Colston Paving Inc. Non Pro Stakes is added to by NRHA, increasing from $20,000 to an incredible $50,000!

The current high scores across the many divisions of the Non Pro preliminaries are:
Level 4 – Gina-Maria Schumacher & CS Sailing Gun – 221
Gunners Enterprise x La Bigia Sailor
Nominated by CS Ranch Management, owned by XCS Ranch LLC
Level 3 – Samantha Kapu & Chics Get The Chex – 218
Magnum Chic Dream x Big Gold Chex
Bred and Nominated by Casey Hinton, Owned by Samantha Kapu
Level 3, Level 2, & Youth – Rita Clausen & Xtra Kiss Me Again – 218
Boom Shernic x SS Kiss Me Kate
Bred and Nominated by Silver Spurs Equine, Owned by Clay Clausen
Level 1 – Lindsay Baar & Light Me Up Joe – 216
Lil Joe Cash x Light Attack
Bred and Nominated by Devin Warren, Owned by Lorri Petersen
Level 1 – Allana Vernon & Moonshiine – 216
Shine Chic Shine x Lena Dun It
Bred and Nominated by Stacey Huska, Owned by White River Ag Products Inc
Level 1 & Prime Time – Dana Pastorino & Hesa Rockin Whiz – 216 (219 with handicap)
Topsail Whiz x A Bueno Poco Dunit
Bred & Nominated by Roxanne Koepsell, Owned by Pastorino Hay & Ranch Supply, Inc
Masters – Jose Vazquez & Snow Guns Last Dream – 218.5
Magnum Chic Dream x Snow Gun
Bred by Andre De Bellefeuille, Nominated by Equine Plus, Owned by Smart Like Juice Inc.

Currently leading the Story Book Stables Amateur, the Colston Paving, Inc. Non Pro Stakes, and the Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Non Pro Derby, which will be awarded following the second section of the preliminary round on Wednesday, are:
Story Book Stables Amateur – Samantha Kapu & Chics Get The Chex – 218
Magnum Chic Dream x Big Gold Chex
Bred and Nominated by Casey Hinton, Owned by Samantha Kapu
Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Non Pro Derby – Gina Schumacher & CS Nifty Sailor – 217.5
Gotta Nifty Gun x La Bigia Sailor
Nominated by CS Ranch Management, Owned by XCS Ranch LLC
Colston Paving, Inc. Non Pro Stakes – Molly Morgenstern & Aphrodites Gotvoodoo
Shiners Voodoo Dr x One Mighty Aphtodite
Bred and Nominated by Double Run Farm, Owned by Molly Morgenstern
Colston Paving, Inc. Non Pro Stakes & APHA Chrome Cash –  Jose Vazquez & Snow Guns Last Dream
Magnum Chic Dream x Snow Gun
Bred by Andre De Bellefeuille, Nominated by Equine Plus, Owned by Smart Like Juice Inc.
The Non Pro preliminary competition continues Tuesday. For complete results and other information, visit NRHADerby.com.

Rapp & Hill Win Novice Horse Non Pro Titles at 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel

The horse show action continued in the Adequan® Arena at the National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel. There were 64 entries in the Novice Horse Non Pro classes spread across three levels. In the end, Alicia Rapp and Brogan Hill took home the wins.

Novice Horse Non Pro Level 1 & Level 2 (1) Champion - Alicia Rapp & CS Just Viintage

Alicia Rapp and CS Just Viintage, a 2019 mare, won the first slate of the Level 1 and Level 2 Novice Horse Non Pro at the 6666 Ranch NRHA Derby presented by Markel.
CS Just Viintage, or “Missy” as she’s known around the barn, was bred by XCS Ranch and is by Platinum Vintage and out of Snow Town. Rapp and Missy are a relatively new team- the mare joined Rapp’s family shortly before the 2022 NRHA Futurity.
“She has, so far, been the funnest show horse I have,” Rapp explained. “She really is happy about her job. She goes around with her ears forward and is very princess-like.”
Up next for Rapp and Missy is the second slate of the Novice Horse Non Pro, followed by the All Star Reining Stakes at WEC Ocala in July.
Novice Horse Non Pro Level 3 (1) Champion - Brogan Hill & Quik Draw McGraw

Brogan Hill and Quik Draw McGraw, a 2016 gelding, won the Novice Horse Non Pro Level 3 (1) with a score of 143.5.
Quik Draw McGraw is by HF Mobster and out of Nestle Quik Chic and has over $35,000 in lifetime earnings. Hill has been riding him for several years, earning accolades in the NRHA and a spot on the Fresno University Equestrian Team.
“This horse is just my best friend,” Hill said affectionately.
Hill thanked her parents for making wins like this possible and NRHA Three Million Dollar Rider Casey Deary for matching her with this horse.
Ancillary action continues Wednesday with the first slate of the NRHA Novice Horse Open classes. A complete schedule, results, link to the live webcast, and more can be found at NRHADerby.com.

June 19 - Jose Vazquez & Snow Guns Last Dream Lead Non Pro Preliminaries at the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel

The Non Pro preliminary round of the 2023 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel kicked off on Monday, June 19. Over three days of competition, the 306-entry class will be whittled down. The Top 30 in the Non Pro Levels 4-1, the top 20 in the Prime Time Non Pro and Youth Non Pro, and the top 15 in the Masters Non Pro will advance to the clean-slate finals on Friday.

The draw for the finals will be decided during the Platinum Performance Non Pro Draw and Welcome Party on Wednesday evening, now held at the Centennial Building to accommodate the expected crowd. This welcome party also features Reiners Rope, a fundraiser that benefits the Reining Horse Foundation Dale Wilkinson Memorial Crisis Fund.
The preliminary round not only determines who will compete in the clean-slate finals on Friday, June 23, it also decides the champions of the $15,000-added Story Book Stables Amateur, the $10,000-added Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Non Pro Novice Horse Derby, the $50,000-added Colston Paving, Inc. Non Pro Stakes, and the American Paint Horse Association Non Pro Chrome Cash. 
As with the Tamarack Ranch Open Stakes, the Colston Paving Inc. Non Pro Stakes was quickly embraced, and in 2023, the NRHA supplemented the added money for the event, elevating from an already impressive $20,000 to $50,000!

The current high scores across the many divisions of the Non Pro preliminaries are:
Level 4, Prime Time, Masters - Jose Vazquez & Snow Guns Last Dream - 218.5
Magnum Chic Dream x Snow Gun
Bred by Andre De Bellefeuille, Nominated by Equine Plus, Owned by Smart Like Juice Inc.
Level 3 - Samantha Kapu & Chics Get The Chex - 218
Magnum Chic Dream x Big Gold Chex
Bred and Nominated by Casey Hinton, Owned by Samantha Kapu
Level 2 - Don Bell & Makin A Little Trash - 217
Gunnatrashya x Xtra Voodoo Dora
Bred and Nominated by Kathy Loudamy, Owned by Joetta Bell
Level 1 - Kaitlyn Baker & Gunna Be Hermoso - 213.5
Gunnatrashya x Hermosa Dun It
Bred and Nominated by Gerardo Alanis, Owned by Kaitlyn Baker
Youth - Mason McDowell & Xtra Fugged About It - 212.5
HF Mobster x Lenas Whizabelle
Bred and Nominated by Silver Spurs Equine, Owned by Mason McDowell

Currently leading the Story Book Stables Amateur, the Colston Paving, Inc. Non Pro Stakes, and the Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Non Pro Derby, which will be awarded following the second section of the preliminary round on Wednesday, are:
Story Book Stables Amateur – Samantha Kapu & Chics Get The Chex - 218
Magnum Chic Dream x Big Gold Chex
Bred and Nominated by Casey Hinton, Owned by Samantha Kapu
Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Non Pro Derby – Gina Schumacher & CS Nifty Sailor - 217.5
Gotta Nifty Gun x La Bigia Sailor
Nominated by CS Ranch Management, Owned by XCS Ranch LLC
Colston Paving, Inc. Non Pro Stakes & APHA Chrome Cash –  Jose Vazquez & Snow Guns Last Dream
Magnum Chic Dream x Snow Gun
Bred by Andre De Bellefeuille, Nominated by Equine Plus, Owned by Smart Like Juice Inc.
The Non Pro preliminary competition continues Tuesday. For complete results and other information, visit NRHADerby.com.

Ancillary Competition Continues at 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel

The horse show action continued in the Adequan® Arena at the 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel. Monday started with the second slate of the Intermediate Open, Limited Open, and Rookie Professional, then wrapped up with the second slate of the Limited Non Pro.
High point titles were also awarded, with the winners presented with buckles from NRHA Platinum Event Sponsor Montana Silversmiths.

Intermediate Open (2) Champion - Markus Gebert & MAQ Voodoo Doll
Markus Gebert of Germany won the second slate of the Intermediate Open aboard MAQ Voodoo Doll, a 2019 mare owned by Iris Austin.
MAQ Voodoo Doll, or “Frenchie,” as she’s known around the barn, is sired by NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire Shiners Voodoo Dr and out of Gunners Doll. She was bred by La Maqueline and was shipped to the United States as a yearling.
Markus and Frenchie are a new team- in fact, Markus just started riding the mare two weeks ago. He and his family came to the United States so his son, Emanuel, could compete at the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel and qualify for the Run For The Million. That plan left Markus without a horse to show. However, the mare’s owner, Iris, has known the Gebert family for over a decade and was happy to have Markus show Frenchie.
Iris explained, “She was supposed to be my Derby horse. I’m an open rider also, but I’m swamped with ranch riders, and since Markus had nothing to show, I told him to just take her so she has something today.”
Markus made a point to thank Iris, his family, and everybody at home in Germany for their support.

Limited Open (2) Co-Champion - Yali Avraham & Alpha Taris Chic
Yali Avraham and Alpha Taris Chic won the Limited Open (2) in a three-way tie with a score of 140.5. Alpha Taris Chic, a 2018 gelding owned by Jordan Wright Du Plessis, is by Wimpy Chic and out of Taris Attraction.
“He was just a good horse to show,” Avraham said. “It was very fun.”
Avraham thanked Jordan Wright Du Plessis for letting her ride Alpha Taris Chic and Gunny Matheson for his coaching.
Limited Open (2) Co-Champion - Janina Gauthier & Smart N Up

Janina Gauthier and Smart N Up won the Limited Open (2) in a three-way tie with a score of 140.5
“I'm super excited,” Gauthier said. “I have not been in the show pen for almost eight years now, so to be back at it and be here is definitely amazing.”
Smart N Up is a 2018 mare by NRHA Eight Million Sire Smart Spook and out of Ruffle Me Up. She was bred by Rosanne Sternberg and owned by Eileen Crane. Gauthier will show her two more times throughout the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel.
Gauthier thanked her husband and his team at Jonathan Gauthier Performance Horses for supporting her in this opportunity to be in the show pen.
Limited Open (2) Co-Champion - Luca Cozzo & Pretty With A Twist

Luca Cozzo and Pretty With A Twist won the Limited Open (2) in a three-way tie with a score of 140.5.
Pretty With A Twist is a 2019 mare by NRHA Five Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Whiz out of Make It With A Twist, owned by Brianne Forrest.
“I just put my hand down, said whoa, and let her do the rest,” Cozzo said regarding his high-scoring stops.
Cozzo will show Pretty With A Twist again throughout the duration of the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel and is excited to continue watching this mare mature in the show pen. He graciously thanked Kole Price for his help and support throughout both at the show and at home.

Intermediate & Limited Open High Point - Fabricio Suris Da Silveira & Spooks Gotta Juice
Fabricio Suris Da Silviera and 2019 stallion Spooks Gotta Juice won the high point for the Intermediate and Limited Open Classes.
Spooks Gotta Juice is by NRHA Five Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Whiz and out of Shiner Like Juice. He was bred and is owned by NRHA Two Million Dollar Owner Smart Like Juice Inc.
Rookie Professional High Point and (2) Champion - Lucas Gayoto Ocanha & Xtra Magic Doctor

Lucas Gayoto Ocanha won the Rookie Pro's second slate and the Rookie Pro High Point aboard Xtra Magic Doctor.
This 2014 stallion, known around the barn as “Magic Mike,” is owned by Eric Mendrysa and has lifetime earnings of over $60,000. Bred by Cache Performance Horses, LLC, Magic Mike is by Three Million Dollar Sire Shiners Voodoo Dr and out of Aleena Starlight.
This was only Lucas’s third time to show Magic Mike, an opportunity he is very thankful for, “I have to say thank you to Eric and Trevor for the opportunity to show this horse. He’s a fun horse… a big stopper, big turn, big circle…and he improved a lot from the first round.”
Today’s wins are just adding to this horse’s success so far at the Derby - he won the Rookie Level 2 yesterday with his owner, Eric.

Limited Non Pro High Point - Adele Cunningham & KB Bucks N Guns
Adele Cunningham and KB Bucks N Guns won the Limited Non Pro High Point, placing first in the Limited Non Pro (1) and reserve in the Limited Non Pro (2).
KB Bucks N Guns, a 2014 gelding owned by Kaylene Cunningham and bred by Koen Brutsaert, is sired by NRHA 13 Million Dollar Sire Gunner and out of Smart Whizzin Jenny.
“He was a little more fired up today,” Cunningham said regarding KB Bucks N Guns. “He was just ready to go out there and do his job.”
Cunningham gave a special thanks to the Tishman barn, her parents, and her sister for allowing her the opportunity to ride KB Bucks N Guns.

Limited Non Pro (2) Champion - Jenna Ratke & Rio One Step Closer
Jenna Ratke won the second slate of the Limited Non Pro today on her 2012 gelding, Rio One Step Closer.
The 11-year-old gelding, sired by NRHA 12 Million Dollar Sire Wimpys Little Step out of Miss Remi Chic, has over $17,000 in lifetime earnings. “Rio” and Jenna have had quite a bit of success since becoming a team in 2019, including winning the 2022 14-18 Youth World Championship. However, this was their first win at the Derby, but they’ve been in the Top 5 and Top 10 in the past.
“He's really surprised me, like he's 11 this year. I was not expecting this at all from him,” explained Jenna. “I'm very happy that he's still with me here.”
This talented duo still has a couple more runs this week, then they are on to the Central Ohio Reining Horse Association show in Findlay, Ohio, in a couple of weeks. Jenna made a point to thank her mom, as well as Jesse and Stephanie Gentile, for their support & guidance.

Ancillary action continues Tuesday with the first slate of the NRHA Novice Horse Non Pro classes. A complete schedule, results, link to the live webcast, and more can be found at NRHADerby.com

June 18 - Open Finalists Decided for 2023 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel

The Open preliminary round of the 2023 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel is in the books. In 2022, it was a clean sweep for record-breaking Open Levels 1-4 payouts. With this year’s numbers finalized, the 2023 event once again broke records in all four levels!

Jason Vanlandingham & Gunnabebigtime. Photo by NRHA / Chelsea Schneider Media.

The Level 4 also saw record entries with 280, surpassing the previous record of 270 set in 2022. The Level 2 Open and the Tamarack Ranch Open Stakes also had record entry numbers. Total entries across all levels and divisions reached 951, and the total payout for the Open Derby divisions rose to $906,136 - a 14 percent increase!
The large field of competitors was narrowed down to the top 30 in the Open Levels 4, 3, 2, and 1. Those entries advanced to the clean-slate finals, which will be held Saturday, June 24. The Open preliminaries also decided the champions of the $110,000-added Tamarack Ranch Open 4-Year-Old Stakes, the $15,000-added Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Open Derby, and the Open Prime Time.

Unofficially the bubble for advancing to the finals is:
Level 4 – 220
Level 3 – 217.5
Level 2 - 214.5
Level 1 - 209

Winning each division of the Open preliminaries were:
Level 4 – Jason Vanlandingham & Gunnabebigtime (Gunnatrashya x Big Time Jazzy) - 227.5
Owner & Nominator: Tami Nelson
Level 3 – Dany Tremblay & All Guns On Crush (PS Mega Shine Chic x All Guns On Deck) - 223
Owner: Fred Tremblay, Nominator: Adh-Mor Ranch
Level 2 - Gabriel Diano & Gunna Bet My Boon (Gunnatrashya x Flo N Blu Boon) - 220
Owner: Cabana RT La Aurora, Breeder & Nominator: Alpha Quarter Horses, LLC
Level 1 – Sumer Opinker & Always A Magnum (Magnum Chic Dream x Always A Dunit) - 216
Owner: Pamela Williams, Breeder: Petska Trinity Equine, LLC, Nominator: Jeffery Petska
Level 1 – Santiago Cilleruelo & Flinn Gunna Mark Ya (In Like Flinn x ARC Gunna Mark Ya) - 216
Owner: Justice Performance Horses, Breeder: Jody Puno, Nominator: Neiberger Performance Horses
Level 1 – Abby Kampmann & Lylith (A Sparkling Vintage x Dun It Got Lucky) - 216
Owner: Slide or Die LLC, Breeder: Cade McCutcheon, Nominator: Roxanne Koepsell
Tamarack Ranch Open 4-Year-Old  Stakes & Open Prime Time – Shawn Flarida & Andiamoe (Gunnatrashya x Wimpys Little Chic) - 226.5 
Owner, Breeder, & Nominator: Arcese Quarter Horses USA
Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Open Derby – Craig Schmersal & Rootin Tootin Nite (Gunners Special Nite x West Coast Bay) - 221.5 Owner: Wendy Elkins, Nominator: Linda Campbell
Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Open Derby – Fernando Salgado & Swooon (Spooks Gotta Whiz x Sheza Smart Wimpy) - 221.5
Owner: Coma Ranch, Breeder & Nominator: Loren Booth

The draw for the Open finals will be decided during the Platinum Performance Open Draw Party on Thursday, June 22, at 10 a.m. The Draw Party, open to everyone, will be held in the Platinum Zone in the Sale Arena.
Be sure to purchase tickets to cheer on your favorite finalists on Saturday, June 24, at 5 p.m.
Complete results, draws, news, and more can be found at NRHADerby.com.

Flarida, Schmersal, and Salgado End Open Prelims with Championships at 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel

The Open preliminary round of the 2023 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel came to a close Sunday, June 18. While the finalists are celebrating the chance to compete for big money on Saturday, a few are already counting their money from titles awarded during the preliminary round.
Shawn Flarida won the Tamarack Ranch Open 4-Year-Old Stakes, while Craig Schmersal and Fernando Salgado tied for top honors in the Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Open Derby.
Craig Schmersal and Fernando Salgado Tie to Win Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Open Derby

Craig Schmersal and Fernando Salgado tied with a score of 221.5 to win the $15,000-added Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Open Derby. Schmersal rode Rootin Tootin Nite, while Salgado rode Swooon.
“He turned really great; he circled really cute,” Schmersal, an NRHA Four Million Dollar Rider, said. “He’s the kind of horse you find yourself rooting for just cause he’s so cute, you just wanna take him home.”
Rootin Tootin Nite is by NRHA Five Million Dollar Sire Gunners Special Nite and out of West Coast Bay. The 2018 stallion is owned by Wendy Elkins and was nominated by Lidna Campbell.
Swooon is by NRHA Five Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Whiz and out of Sheza Smart Wimpy. The 5-year-old stallion is owned by Coma Ranch LLC and was bred and nominated by Loren Booth.
Although Salgado, an NRHA Million Dollar Rider, says he has had repeated bad luck with this horse, that changed today. “I showed him last year in the Futurity and I had some really good runs, but something always happened, so he never won a dollar until today,” Salgado said. “But he’s still one of my most favorite horses ever.”
Both the riders took the time to thank their family and staff for their dedication and hard work and to Clark’s Pump-N-Shop for making this class possible.

Shawn Flarida Wins the Tamarack Ranch Open 4-Year-Old Stakes, Open Prime Time, and APHA Open Chrome Cash

With a score of 226.5, Shawn Flarida and Andiamoe had a sweeping win of the Open Prime Time, Open Chrome Cash, and the Tamarack Ranch Open 4-Year-Old Stakes.
Andiamoe, by NRHA Nine Million Dollar Sire Gunnatrashya and out of NRHA Million Dollar Dam Wimpys Little Chic, is a special mare for Flarida. Her family has contributed greatly to his $7 million career, as he has previously won the NRHA Futurity on her, her sire, her dam, and her grandsire.
“My confidence in this mare has never wavered. It wouldn’t waver at any point,” Flarida said. “She’s so confident; she’s so good. If she was a human being, she’d show up a half hour early and stay a half hour late; it’s just who she is.”
The Stakes, open to 4-year-old horses only, debuted in 2021, and the support of the division was soon evident. Tamarack Ranch immediately jumped at the chance to sponsor the $40,000-added Level 4 Open Stakes.
Recognizing the popularity of the 4-year-old Stakes division and to support its longevity, the NRHA Board decided to add an additional $100,000 (to the Open and Non Pro divisions) beginning in 2023, bringing the total added money of the Tamarack Ranch Open Stakes to $110,000. To learn more about the 4-Year-Old nomination program and NRHA’s investment in the future of this group of horses, visit here.
Flarida took time to thank Tamarack Ranch for their support of riders who are entered on younger horses. “Gabe Hutchins from Tamarack, he’s already come by and given me a hug. They’ve done such a great job,” Flarida said. “They’ve just changed the sport.”
The payout for the Tamarack Ranch Open Stakes paid well and deep - to 15th place!

$110,000-added Tamarack Ranch Open Stakes Placings
1. Shawn Flarida and Andiamoe, $30,989.08
2. Andrea Fappani and Mic Dropp, $18,862.92
3. Cade McCutcheon and Trashya Quik, $14,147.19
4. Arno Honstetter and Shine Whiz Jewels, $12,126.16
5. Gabriel Borges and 007, $10.105.145
5. Fernando Salgado and Swooon, $10.105.145
7. Gennardo Lendi and Stepin Out Gunnin, $7,410.43
7. Craig Schmersal and Enterprizingattitude, $7,410.43
9. Craig Schmersal and Revolver 45, $4,378.89
9. Jason Vanlandingham and Shinetime Spook, $4,378.89
9. Jason Vanlandingham and Rufalicious, $4,378.89
9. Duane Latimer and CS Especially Moody, $4,378.89
13. Cade McCutcheon and Lost In The Trash, $2,357.87
13. Rodrigo Nieves and Spook Lil Whiz, $2,357.87
15. Abby Lengel and Bringnthaheat, $1,347.36

First High Point Championships Awarded at 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel
As the weekend came to a close at the 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel,  the Adequan® Arena saw more than 110 runs in the ancillary Classic Equine Green Reiner and Toyon Rookie Free-For-All classes. NRHA Corporate Partner Toyon Ranch has long been a supporter of the Rookie program and, at the NRHA Derby, has generously paid the entry fees for all Rookie contestants.
In addition to the great prizes presented in the Adequan® Arena, exhibitors have a chance to win high-point buckles made by NRHA Corporate Partner Montana Silversmiths. The first High Point championships were awarded Sunday morning.

Classic Equine Green Reiner Level 1 (2) and High Point - Cody Bell & Smart Chicago Spook
Cody Bell and Smart Chicago Spook, a 2014 gelding owned by Thomas Tucker, won the Classic Equine Green Reiner Level 1 (2) and High Point with a score of 140.5.
Smart Chicago Spook, bred by Bob Loomis, is by NRHA Five Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Whiz and out of Smart Chicago Lena.
In talking about the gelding, Bell shared, “He’s just the best ever. Really a team player of a horse, every time we get out of the stall, he’s just like- let’s do this.”
Bell has been riding Smart Chicago Spook for less than a year and has shown him twice throughout the Derby. During today’s run, Bell focused on his speed during circles and keeping himself calm.
At the end of his winning run, Bell took the time to thank his family and Thomas Tucker.

Classic Equine Green Reiner Level 2 High Point - Morgan Bagnell & My Foolish Dream
Morgan Bagnell and My Foolish Dream, a 2017 mare owned by Morgan’s grandmother, Kathy Bagnell, won the Green Reiner Level 2 High Point.
This win was very special for 17-year-old Morgan, a Rockwall, Texas native, as “Lilly” was bred and raised by her family- she is sired by Nine Million Dollar Sire Magnum Chic Dream and out of Dun Up Sensational.
When asked about her mare, Morgan explained, “She's very special to us; we bred and raised her. It's definitely a very special moment to have her here and share this with our family. I know they're very excited about this. She's a very sweet horse. And she's definitely very deserving of this one. It’s a family affair.”
Morgan added, “Coming into my run today, I just wanted to focus on being smooth and being relaxed and comfortable for her because I know it does help her a lot. I just wanted to make sure that she was having fun…and we did; we had a bunch of fun!”

Classic Equine Green Reiner L2 (2) Champion - Heather Dawn Ronek & Gotta Magic Gun
Heather Ronek and Gotta Magic Gun, a 2016 gelding bred by Misty Valley Performance Horses, won the second slate of the Classic Equine Green Reiner Level 2.
“Steamboat,” as he’s affectionately known around the barn, is sired by Two Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Gun and out of Nu Magic Cash.
Today’s win was exciting for Heather- it was her first class win in the reining events with the gelding and her very first Derby. “This is our first year showing,” remarked Heather, who recently switched to reining from the All Around events. “We're consistently getting a little better and a little better. This is really exciting because we haven't won anything yet as far as classes go, but we were Reserve High Point for Rookie and Green at the Cactus and then High Point Green at the NRBC.”
The next stop after the Derby for this talented duo will be the APHA World Show, where Heather and Steamboat will compete in the Solid Paint Bred Reining events under the guidance of Bud Lyon Performance Horses.

Toyon Ranch Rookie Free-For-All Level 1 & Prime Time Rookie (1) Champion - Kent Ray Taylor & Xtra Wimpys Catalyst
Kent Ray Taylor and Xtra Wimpys Catalyst, a 2015 stallion bred by Milholland Training Inc, won the first slate of both the Toyon Ranch Rookie Level 1 & Prime Time Rookie with a 140.5.
The eye-catching black stallion, known around the barn as “Zorro,” is sired by NRHA 12 Million Dollar Sire Wimpys Little Step and out of Im Not Blonde, and has over $61,000 in lifetime earnings.
Kent describes Zorro as his “heart horse,” stating, “I love him; he does whatever you want him to do, he’s super easy, and he’s beautiful. He’s always ready for me. So if there's a good run in there, it's because he's ready, and I’m ready. When there's a bad run, it's because he's ready and I'm not.”
Kent made a point to thank the whole Schmersal team… especially Mandy, who always makes sure Zorro is ready for him. He also thanked Toyon Ranch for sponsoring the class.
“I absolutely thank Toyon Ranch for all they do. They also sponsored classes for us at the NRBC,” he said. “It takes a lot to do that, and sometimes the sponsors don’t get thanked for that (support).”

Toyon Ranch Rookie Free-For-All Level 2 (1) Champion - Eric Mendrysa & Xtra Magic Doctor
Eric Mendrysa and Xtra Magic Doctor, a 2014 stallion bred by Cache Performance Horses LLC, won the first slate of the Toyon Ranch Level 2 Rookie with a 141.
The talented stallion, known around the barn as “Magic Mike,” is by NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire Shiners Voodoo Dr and out of Aleena Starlight. He had lifetime earnings of over $60,000 before Eric purchased him just one month ago. “I just bought him from Janice Laney,” Eric explained. “I've been hounding her for a while trying to get him bought. She finally agreed to it.”
In their short time together, the duo has already had quite a bit of success. “I took him to the Redbud and got him qualified for the AQHA World Show and showed him in some ranch riding,” he said. “This is only our second time showing. He's a really good confidence booster and really, really fun for us to show.”
Eric plans to utilize his new teammate to gain confidence for his derby horse and to continue to show at AQHA shows in Reining and Ranch Riding events. He made a point to thank Trevor Dare, Laura Dare, and the whole Dare team for cheering him on, Janice Laney for selling him “Magic Mike,” and Toyon Ranch for sponsoring the rookie classes at the NRHA Derby.  

Ancillary action continues Monday with the second slate of the NRHA Intermediate Open, Limited Open, Rookie Professional, and Limited Non Pro classes. A complete schedule, results, link to the live webcast, and more can be found at NRHADerby.com.

June 17 -Best Shine & Jason Vanlandingham Maintain Lead in the Open Preliminaries at the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel

The second section of the Open preliminary round of the 2023 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel took place Saturday, June 17. After 104 rides in the Jim Norick Coliseum, there was little change to the leaderboard.
The clean-slate Finals will be held on Saturday, June 24 at the OKC Fairgrounds. It will be an action-packed event with the largest check in Derby history- $100,000- being presented to the Open Champion.

Jason Vanlandingham & Best Shine - Photo by NRHA / Waltenberry Photography

The Open preliminary rounds will wrap up tomorrow, Sunday, June 18, with the final 99 draws. The current high scores in Levels 4-1 are:
Level 4 – Jason Vanlandingham & Best Shine – 227
(Shine Chic Shine x Best Stop) 
Owner: Robert Santagata, Breeder & Nominator: Wagman Ranch Inc
Level 3 – Dany Tremblay & All Guns On Crush – 223
(PS Mega Shine Chic x All Guns On Deck)
Owner: Fred Tremblay, Nominator: Adh-Mor Ranch
Level 2 – Gabriel Diano & Gunna Bet My Boon – 220
(Gunnatrashya x Flo N Blu Boon)
Owner: Cabana RT La Aurora, Breeder & Nominator: Alpha Quarter Horses, LLC
Level 1 – Sumer Opinker & Always A Magnum – 216
(Magnum Chic Dream x Always A Dunit)
Owner: Pamela Williams, Breeder: Petska Trinity Equine, LLC, Nominator: Jeffery Petska
Level 1 – Santiago Cilleruelo & Flinn Gunna Mark Ya – 216
(In Like Flinn x ARC Gunna Mark Ya)
Owner: Justice Performance Horses, Breeder: Jody Puno, Nominator: Neiberger Performance Horses
The preliminary rounds not only determine who returns to the Finals- they also decide the champions of the $110,000-added Tamarack Ranch Open 4-Year-Old Stakes and the $15,000-added Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Open Derby. The winners of these events, along with the Open Prime Time and the American Paint Horse Association’s Open Chrome Cash, will be announced at the conclusion of the preliminary rounds tomorrow.

The current leaders for these divisions are:
Tamarack Ranch Open 4-Year-Old Open Stakes – Cade McCutcheon & Trashya Quik – 223
(Gunnatrashya x Nestle Quik Chic)
Owner: Vaughn Zimmerman, Breeder & Nominator: William Newman, Jr
Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Open Derby – Craig Schmersal & Rootin Tootin Nite – 221.5
(Gunners Special Nite x West Coast Bay)
Owner: Wendy Elkins, Nominator: Linda Campbell
Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Open Derby – Fernando Salgado & Swooon – 221.5
(Spooks Gotta Whiz x Sheza Smart Wimpy)
Owner: Coma Ranch, Breeder & Nominator: Loren Booth
Open Prime Time: Matthew McDowell & Xtra Voodoo Dr – 221 (includes handicap)
(Shiners Voodoo Dr x Wound Up Wimp)
Owner: Mona Bodaness, Breeder & Nominator: Silver Spurs Equine
Open Chrome Cash: Trevor Elliot Dare & Gangsta Sixtysix – 223.5
(Inferno Sixty Six x Rush N Cat)
Owner: Julio Mora Hernandez, Breeder: Lorenzo Lotti, Nominator: Slide or Die LLC
The top 30 (plus ties) in the Open Levels 4-1 will advance to the clean-slate finals on Saturday, June 24. The draw for the Finals will be decided at the Platinum Performance Open Draw Party on Friday, Saturday 23, at 10 a.m.

June 16 - The first section of the Open preliminary round of the 2023 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel took place today, with 101 of the 308 Open Derby entries vying for their spot in the finals.

The clean-slate Finals will be held on Saturday, June 24, in the Jim Norick Arena of the OKC Fairgrounds. This year’s Finals will be particularly exciting, as the Level 4 Open Champion will take home a check for $100,000- the largest payout in Derby history. The Level 3 Open Champion will receive $35,000, the Level 2 $20,000, and the Level 1 $10,000.

Jason Vanlandingham & Best Shine - Photo by NRHA | Chelsea Schneider Media

The Open preliminary rounds will run through Sunday, June 18, with more than 100 entries each day. The current high scores across the divisions of the Open preliminaries are:
Level 4 – Jason Vanlandingham & Best Shine – 227
(Shine Chic Shine x Best Stop)
Owner: Robert Santagata, Breeder & Nominator: Wagman Ranch Inc
Level 3 – Dany Tremblay & All Guns On Crush – 223
(PS Mega Shine Chic x All Guns On Deck)
Owner: Fred Tremblay, Nominator: Adh-Mor Ranch
Level 2 – Gabriel Diano & Gunna Bet My Boon – 220
(Gunnatrashya x Flo N Blu Boon)
Owner: Cabana RT La Aurora, Breeder & Nominator: Alpha Quarter Horses, LLC
Level 1 – Sumer Opinker & Always A Magnum – 216
(Magnum Chic Dream x Always A Dunit)
Owner: Pamela Williams, Breeder: Petsha Trinity Equine, LLC, Nominator: Jeffery Petska

The preliminary rounds not only determine who returns to the Jim Norick for the Finals- they also decide the champions of the $110,000-added Tamarack Ranch Open 4-Year-Old Stakes and the $15,000-added Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Open Derby. The winners of these events, along with the Open Prime Time and the American Paint Horse Association’s Open Chrome Cash, will be announced at the conclusion of the preliminary rounds on Sunday. The current leaders for these events are:
Tamarack Ranch Open 4-Year-Old Open Stakes – Cade McCutcheon & Trashya Quik – 223
(Gunnatrashya x Nestle Quik Chic)
Owner: Vaughn Zimmerman, Breeder & Nominator: William Newman, Jr
Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Novice Horse Open Derby – Gennaro Lendi & Stepin Out Gunnin – 221
(Gunnatrashya x Barbies Stepin Out) 
Owner: Marc & Kathy Gordon, Breeder & Nominator: Marc Gordon
Open Prime Time: Matthew McDowell & Xtra Voodoo Dr – 221 (includes handicap)
(Shiners Voodoo Dr x Wound Up Wimp)
Owner: Mona Bodaness, Breeder & Nominator: Silver Spurs Equine
Open Chrome Cash: Trevor Elliot Dare & Gangsta Sixtysix – 223.5
(Inferno Sixty Six x Rush N Cat)
Owner: Julio Mora Hernandez, Breeder: Lorenzo Lotti, Nominator: Slide or Die LLC
The top 30 (plus ties) in the Open Levels 4-1 will advance to the clean-slate finals on Saturday, June 24. The draw for the Finals will be decided at the Platinum Performance Open Draw Party on Friday, Saturday 23, at 10 a.m.
For complete results and a competition live stream, visit NRHADerby.com.

By NRHA Press Release