Even before the National Reining Breeders Classic (NRBC) began on Tuesday, April 18, the 2006 event was already having an impact at the Great Southwest Equestrian Center in Katy, TX. More than 300 Classic entries arrived in Katy for a chance to compete for $240,000 in guaranteed added money and a total payout over $1 million.

In true NRBC style, decorations went up, along with sponsors' banners, and the show grounds were embellished with flowers and greenery. Trainers and riders from across the United States and Canada showed up and began with warm-ups on Friday, April 14. The arenas saw non-stop action until the show's first Classic entry entered the arena on Tuesday.

The 2006 NRBC will run through April 23, and the show schedule includes the Classic, along with a full slate of National Reining Horse Association-approved ancillary classes with American Quarter Horse Association and American Paint Horse Association classes. The show also includes a $25,000 Open class and an Open and Youth United States Equestrian Federation qualifier.

This event has become famous for providing festivities outside of the arena to compliment its world-class reining. The Reiners Golf Tournament and Texas Hold'em tournament return to this year's event, and are joined by the new To The Nines competition, which awards trainers and barns for their elaborate stall decorations.

The National Reining Breeders Classic is the most successful stallion incentive program in reining history. In just nine years, the NRBC has grown to include over 275 subscribed stallions and more than 18,000 enrolled foals. For information on the NRBC, visit www.nrbc.com or call (580) 759-3939.


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