The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) proudly presents the 2008 NRHA Derby at Oklahoma State Fair Park June 23-28. The Derby is one of two major events presented by NRHA each year in Oklahoma City. It is the association’s premiere event for the world’s best four-, five-, and six-year-old reining horses, their exhibitors, and their owners.

The 2008 NRHA Derby is a great experience for all horse lovers. Bring the whole family for plenty of reining excitement with free admission Monday, June 23, through Wednesday, June 26. The competitions start at 8 a.m. each morning in the Oklahoma State Fair Coliseum and continue into the evening in Arena 6. Both sections of the $30,000 added Non Pro Derby and the first section of the $80,000 Open Derby take center stage during the first three days of the event.

In addition, U.S. military personnel are invited to attend any of the reining performances free of charge for the entire week. Military personnel and up to six family members can receive free admission by presenting a valid active-duty military or service identification. Any active duty, reservist, or National Guardsman is entitled to free admission.

The show also offers many activities outside of the show ring. Spectators at the Derby will be treated to a shopping extravaganza. The shopper’s paradise includes and array of vendors featuring jewelry, clothing, bronze sculptures, western rugs, tack, cowboy hats and boots - just to name a few. More than 70 vendors will be open weekdays from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. each day. Most vendors will stay open late until the competition ends on Friday and Saturday night.

Rein in Cancer, which focuses attention on raising both dollars and awareness to fight the disease, will also be present at the Derby. The OU Cancer Center is providing free cancer screening certificates and staff to answers questions about this major health concern. Staff are available on Friday, June 27 from Noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday, June 28 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Wide World of Horses booth located in the Coliseum Concourse. Friday is “Think Pink” Day. Everyone attending the Derby is encouraged to wear pink to help spread awareness of the disease. In addition, a cancer survivors’ recognition is scheduled during the opening ceremonies on Friday night at 6:30 p.m.

The Reining Horse Sports Foundation (RHSF) is hosting two parties on Friday with a portion of proceeds going to Rein in Cancer. The Taste of Reining starts at 5 p.m. in the Coliseum Cantina and features the sumptuous fare from six area restaurants. Following the evening finals performance, RHFS kicks off its “Hang Ten” Beach Party in Flamingo Bay located between the Coliseum and Barn 6. Live music from Steve Crossley and the Boots & Bermudas Leg Contest promise to make the event quite entertaining for the whole family. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children. Tickets include admission to both events and can be purchased at the door.

Incorporated in 1966, the National Reining Horse Association is the governing body of the sport of reining. NRHA, with their International Headquarters in Oklahoma City, is responsible for promoting the sport of reining and working to ensure the highest standards of competition. To learn more about the NRHA, its programs and family of corporate partners, visit www.NRHA.com.