Reining Horse Competition

Do you fully understand reining horse competition and what it's all about? Reining was first recognized as a sport in 1949 by the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) and the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). BY 1966 the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) was formed. This association was formed in the US but developed a worldwide membership over time.

Certain rules, patterns and regulations were created that were later adopted in whole or by part by other organizations as well. Reining became an FEI-recognized sport in 2000 and there are now international competitions like the World Equestrian Games which are governed by the FEI and the NRHA.

There are different sanctions and divisions of reining horse competition such as non-pro/amateur, horses in certain age groups, adult riders of certain ages, youth riders and more. Classes are often limited by the experience level of the horse, the rider or both. There are three basic classes of reining competition:

  • National
  • International
  • Freestyle

In national competitions, the rules and regulations as well as judging is usually overseen by the county in which the competition is held. For example, in the US and Canada the National Reining Horse Association (HRHA) is the leader in reining organizations. Sometimes you will also find that breed organizations help sanction their own shows such as reining horse just for Quarter Horses or Appaloosas.

International competitions are typically regulated by the International Federation for the Equestrian Sports (FEI). Because reining is becoming more and more popular around the world, we see more international events than ever before. The sport has spread beyond Europe and into Australia and even Germany. In 2002, the first event was held in Spain.

Freestyle is another type of reining horse competition that allows the rider and horse to incorporate their movements into a 3.5 minute music routine. Often costumes are worn, although they are not required and riders may ride with one, two or no hands or any type of NRHA approved bit. There are also rules allowing props, within certain limits and other show aids.

Freestyle is considered a more fun and creative form of reining and is often judged based on audience applause and reaction.