The 2024 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel is approaching fast, and there are more ways than ever to enter a class customized to you and your horse’s skill level and goals.
In 2023, the event broke records with the highest payout in history—$1.57 million. Exhibitors will not want to miss the fun June 11-23 at the OKC Fairgrounds, as this year’s event offers the most added money to Levels (L) 3, 2, and 1 for both the Open and Non Pro compared to all other derbies!
The guaranteed payouts for champions are:
- L4 Open – $100,000
- L3 Open – $35,000
- L2 Open – $20,000
- L1 Open – $10,000
- Prime Time Open – $5,000
- L4 Non Pro – $50,000
- L3 Non Pro – $20,000
- L2 Non Pro – $15,000
- L1 Non Pro – $5,000
- Prime Time Non Pro – $5,000
- Youth Non Pro – $2,000
- Masters Non Pro – $2,000
Enter the Highest Added Money 4-year-old Stakes
NRHA proudly offers the 4-year-old Stakes featuring the highest added money open aged event, not restricted by nomination, stallion etc.
To recognize the popularity of the 4-year-old Stakes division and to support its longevity, the NRHA Board added an additional $100,000 beginning in 2023, bringing the total added money of the Tamarack Ranch Open Stakes to $110,000 and $50,000 in the Colston Paving Inc. Non Pro Stakes.
Novice Horse Opportunities
Rick Clark and his brother Brent are the naming sponsors of the Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Open and Non Pro Novice Horse divisions, which are open to horses who have won less than $10,000 as of May 1. The Open division boasts $15,000 in added money, while the Non Pro features $10,000.
$15,000-Added Amateur Division
Non Pros eligible for L1 or L2 who have earned less than $100,000 and meet the full criteria are eligible for the $15,000 Elementa Amateur Division. View the Amateur Derby eligibility criteria here.
8 & Up Maturity
There will be an Open 8 & Up Maturity with $10,000 added to the Level 4 and $5,000 added to the Level 2. In the Non Pro, there is $15,000 added split across L1-4.
Rookies Compete for Free
Did you know the Toyon Ranch Rookie Free-For-All is happening at the Derby? NRHA Corporate Partner Toyon Ranch is paying all Rookie entry and judges fees! We can’t wait to see you in OKC.
$20,000-added Freestyle Reining presented by Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau
Have you watched this exciting competition from the stands and wanted to join the fun? Those interested in competing can send inquiries to Cheryl Cody at cheryl@pro-management-inc.com and include a video of any past freestyle performances.
$3,500-Added Para Reining Championship
The Para-Reining Championship, sponsored by Dechra and NRHA Corporate Partner Hart Trailers, will be held on Thursday, June 20, at the Jim Norick Arena after the Invitational Freestyle. The championship will include classes for grades two, three, four, and five. Find more information and the entry form here.
High Point Buckle Awards
High-point titles are among the many honors bestowed at the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel in June. The winners are crowned based on points awarded by their placings in two ancillary slates. Those with the highest point total receive a buckle crafted by show sponsor Montana Silversmiths to commemorate their success.
APHA Chrome Cash
Open and Non Pro competitors have an opportunity to enter the American Paint Horse Association’s Chrome Cash with $2,500 added to each division. The entry form can be found here.
6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel Entries & Reservations
2024 NRHA Derby entries are due in office by May 15, and Ancillary entries are due in office by June 1. Stall Reservation Forms are due in office by May 16. To submit entries and reservations, visit nrhaderby.com/forms.
Founded in 1966, the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion of the reining horse in a fun-filled, family atmosphere. NRHA’s mission is to promote the reining horse worldwide while celebrating and advancing the finest traditions of Western horsemanship. To learn more about NRHA, how to join, or to become a fan, visit nrha.com.
Media Contact:
Haley Carmen
Sr. Director of Communications
National Reining Horse Association
hcarmen@nrha.com
(405) 946-7400 x 102
Image available on request