The 2008 National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Derby took center stage in Oklahoma City, OK, June 23-28 at the Oklahoma State Fair Park. After the entries were completed and purses were tallied, the show exceeded last year’s number in several categories including a solid 4 percent increase in total purse and whopping 31 percent increase in the Non Pro division purse.

In 2007, the NRHA Derby offered $575,800 in purse money, including ancillary classes. This year’s purse broke the $600,000 mark for a 4% increase over last year. The total number of derby and ancillary entries rose from 920 in 2007 to 1,017 in 2008 for an 11% increase.

The 2008 Derby also saw a major increase in youth events. For the first time ever, the Derby played host to the USEF National Youth Reining Championship, as well as the host of the inaugural U.S. North American Young Rider Championship Selection Trial for reining. In addition, youth entries in ancillary classes tripled from 31 in 2007 to 100 in 2008.

The Non Pro Derby showed the most significant expansion in purses and entries. The Non Pro division purse increased from $75,300 in 2007 to nearly $100,000 at this year’s event for a 31 percent increase. The entries in this division grew from 131 to 162 equaling a considerable increase of 24 percent. The Intermediate Non Pro purse also increased 15 percent for a total of $47,000 and a 24 percent increase in entries. In addition, the Limited Non Pro saw a 17 percent increase with a purse of $28,700 and an astounding 37 percent increase in entries this year.

“We are happy to see such increases at the NRHA Derby. It is yet another indicator that shows us the sport of reining is on the rise despite some of the downturns we’ve seen in the economy. We also take a lot of pride in producing a quality show, while providing a fun atmosphere for all competitors and their families,” said NRHA Executive Director Dan Wall.

With more than one-half million dollars awarded, the NRHA Derby runs for one week each summer in Oklahoma City and showcases the world’s best four-, five- and six-year-old reining horses. A family of corporate partners and derby sponsors make this major international reining event possible.