At the Western Derby, increased added money await the 4- and 5-year-old horse and rider pairs, many of which competed at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® when the horses were 3 years old. Horses may be shown in either a snaffle bit or a hackamore in the Western Derby. They are judged in three challenging events: herd work, rein work and fence (cow) work, with a preliminary round of competition to determine who will return for the clean-slate finals. The Western Derby features nine divisions to suit all levels, from million-dollar riders in the Open, entry-level competitors in the Non Pro Limited and Boxing, and every level of competitor in between.
A Western Derby highlight is the Holy Cow Performance Horses CD Survivor Open Bridle Spectacular. The event features many of the industry’s seasoned and successful older horses that are in the bridle vying for $25,000 in added money through herd, rein and cow works. The Intermediate Open Bridle Spectacular has $2,500 added.
In addition to the limited age event and the Spectaculars, a full slate of horse show classes feature added money that totals $52,750. This includes the Open and Non Pro Two Rein Spectaculars, Non Pro Bridle Spectacular, Non Pro Limited Spectacular and two Youth Spectaculars.
The 2024 event is free to the public.
