2009 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Set For September 20-October 4 The National Reined Cow Horse Association Snaffle Bit Futurity, slated for September 20 – October 4, will continue its reign as the largest and most elite reined cow horse competition in the world when it converges on the Reno Livestock Events Center in Reno, Nevada. The familiar venue should be bustling with activity throughout the two weeks of intense competition. With $412,000 added, the Futurity and show is expected to pay out over $1 million, as it has for the past four years! Along with that large purse, exhibitors will receive a multitude of treasures. In fact, over 100 beautiful Gist buckles will be awarded, and 15 Bob’s Custom Saddles, along with the signature CR Morrison bronzes and colorful ribbons. Special activities give the Snaffle Bit Futurity a unique feel that makes it much more than just a horse show. Shopping is a priority for many people – and with the NRCHA Corporate Partner and NRCHA Breeder Sponsor Booths situated around the arena concourse, there will be ample opportunity to peruse and purchase. Plus, the Best of the West Trade Show will be set up in the Trade Show Hall just outside the coliseum. The large group of vendors sells everything from western décor, to clothing, to books, to tack, and trailers, plus everything else in between. And if someone needs a big ticket item – like a top bred reined cow horse – then they might just find him at the Snaffle Bit Futurity Horse Sales, sponsored by Markel Insurance Company, held October 1-3. But reined cow horse fans don’t have to shell out the big bucks to take home a fine prospect. They still have a chance to win the Ward Ranch-bred colt, Fresnonic, for just a $10 donation with the NRCHA-Ward Ranch Raffle Colt. The winner will be drawn during the Open Finals on Sunday, October 4, and need not be present to win. The National Reined Cow Horse Association, celebrating its 60th Anniversary in 2009, is the governing body of cow horse competition, is responsible for promoting the sport, insuring high standards of competition and educating members and the public about the history and tradition of the cow horse. Through the support of a Corporate Partner family that includes Wide World of Horses, Markel Insurance Co., John Deere, Adequan®, Bob’s Custom Saddles, Cinch, Inc., Classic Equine, Gist Silversmiths, MD Barns, Platinum Performance, Inc., Nutrena, Quarter Horse News & Performance Horse magazine, the Peppermill Hotel/Resort, Fort Dodge West Nile Innovator, Rios of Mercedes, Merial products ULCERGARD and EQUIOXX, and the Silver Legacy Hotel, the association works to keep the vaquero tradition alive in today’s equine industry. For information on the National Reined Cow Horse Association, call 580-759-4949 or visit the NRCHA Official Web Site at  http://www.nrcha.com/ .