Flarida’s quest to become NRHA’s first Six Million Dollar Rider became reality during the Lucas Oil Level 4 Open Futurity Finals. With two horses in the competition, his chances of crossing this historic milestone were high. Flarida’s first run on Garry Ray Smith’s Missin My Tinsel (Hollywoodstinseltown x Dont Miss This) scored a 220, earning him 9th place and $22,287.89. George and Carol Bell’s Mr. Masota Star (Wimpys Little Step x Cee Another Masota) was Flarida’s second ride. A score of 222 ½ fell in 3rd place and earned $73,554.10—pushing his earnings just over $6 million.

Dates are confirmed for June 28 – July 8, 2018, at the extraordinary South Point Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, Nevada. For 2018, an estimated $10,000 will be paid to the winners of the championship classes in addition to the gold, silver and bronze trophies.

With much soul searching, fact-finding, discussion and debate AQHA Region 8 Steering Committee has made the difficult decision, with the input of their respective associations, to discontinue hosting the AQHA Region 8 Championship Horse Show.

“In an effort to help improve our industry, we have formed the Color Choice Futurity program to benefit those breeding, raising and showing Paint, Appaloosa, Palomino, and Buckskin performance horses,” said Jennifer Sheriff. The Color Choice Futurity is strictly for Color Breed horses and are required to be registered with one of the following associations: APHA, ApHC, ABRA, IBHA & PHBA.