Changes Made to NRHA Futurity

NRHA press by: Christa Morris

Following the 2013 National Reining Horse Association Futurity (NRHA), there were several discussions concerning the NRHA Open Futurity go-round schedule, including horses’ progression from the semi-finals, and then on to the finals. The NRHA Board of Directors reviewed extensive historical data and scores, and has approved an alteration to the number of horses that will advance from the first go-round to the semi-finals. In addition, a change was made concerning the start of the first go-round.

First Go-Round to Start One Day Later

The first go-round of the NRHA Futurity has traditionally started on Thanksgiving Day. The Board received numerous comments from open competitors requesting that the first go-round start one day later to allow horses more time to settle in after being transported from home to Oklahoma City. The Board considered this request, along with a detailed study of the performance of horses competing on the first day. Ultimately, the Board approved the first go-round of the NRHA Futurity Open to begin the day after Thanksgiving (November 28, 2014). More information on move-in scheduling will be forthcoming at a later date.

Number of Horses Advancing to Semi-Finals Altered

Keeping in mind a schedule that is more beneficial to the health and welfare of the horses entered in the NRHA Futurity, the Board of Directors approved an alternative to the number of horses advancing from the first go-round to the semi-finals, as shown below. The Board considered several years’ data, including past composite scores needed to advance to the finals. The numbers listed below are a better reflection of the performances demonstrated by the horses that ultimately advanced. This change will lessen the number of horses moving on to the semi-finals. However, historical research of recent Futurities has shown that none of the horses outside of the advancing number have made it to the finals. No changes were made to the number of horses that advance from the semi-finals to the finals.

Class: Number Advancing:

Level 4 Open Top 100 horses (plus ties)

Level 3 Open Top 75 horses (plus ties)

Level 2 Open Top 75 horses (plus ties)

Level 1 Open Top 50 horses (plus ties)

All horses qualifying for the semi-final will be placed into the regular draw. If you choose to scratch from the semi-final, you will need to fill out a scratch sheet in the show office prior to the horse’s scheduled draw.

Opportunity Added for the Next Top 20 Scores

After the changes stated above were made, the Board chose to provide an additional opportunity for Level 1 Open riders/horses that just missed qualifying for the semi-finals. They will be given an opportunity to compete and win money in a $2,500-added Category 11 class. The class will be added to the schedule and will be open only to the next 20 Level 1 Open entries that missed the semi-finals. This class is not part of the Futurity, and therefore no nomination or entry fees paid for the Futurity will be applied to the class payouts.

About the NRHA Futurity & Adequan® North American Affiliate Championship Show

As the most elite reining event in the world, 3,000-plus entries vie for more than $2 million in cash and prizes. More than 1,300 horses compete and visitors from nearly 20 countries attend to watch the excitement unfold. During its 10-day run, the show contributes more than $67 million to the overall Oklahoma City economy. Please go to nrhafuturity.com for more information or to download conditions.