Twelve accomplished collegiate riders will experience the ultimate catch ride at the 2010 Collegiate Reining Championships at NRHA Derby in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Riders in the championship have proven their abilities in the show ring and qualified to compete against their peers at this national competition.

NRHA selects four riders from a pool of collegiate NRHA members. This year a record number of applicants were evaluated on a number of criteria including NRHA points, earnings and show history. The individuals selected to compete on behalf of NRHA are:

Sarah Locker – University of Georgia

Helen Lauth – South Dakota State University

Lyndsey Jordan – Auburn University

Jesse Gentile – Ohio State University

Four individuals are selected to represent NCAA Varsity Equestrian competitors. The riders are evaluated by a committee of collegiate coaches who recommend the top four Reining athletes. The riders selected to compete on behalf of Varsity Equestrian are:

Maggie Gratny – Texas A&M University

Rebecca McReynolds – New Mexico State University

Diandra St. Hilaire – University of Georgia

Carrie von Uhlit – Texas Christian University

The Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) is represented by the top four placing individuals in Open Reining. This year, the qualifying competition was held in Lexington, Kentucky at the IHSA National Championships. The riders who qualified to compete on behalf of IHSA are:

Jason Romney – Utah State University

Alexandra Jones – Berry College

Kelsey Moody – St. Andrews Presbyterian College

Jillian Staurowsky – University of Deleware

Don’t miss your opportunity to be a part of the excitement. The success of this competition depends on horses being donated for the collegiate riders. Fourteen horses will be needed, one for each of the 12 competitors plus 2 alternate horses. As a thank you, each donated horse’s stall fees will be refunded after the Derby.

“The Collegiate Reining Championship is a showcase for some of the best horses and young riders in the sport of Reining,” said Ollie Griffith, IHSA National Steward and NRHA Judge. “This program gives owners and competitors a chance to highlight their skills on a national level.”

For more information or if you are interested in helping this great cause or know of someone who is, please contact Brian Bendele or Shianne Megel at the NRHA office at 405-946-7400.

NRHA would like to thank the following corporate partners for their support: AdequanR; Arenus, Bob’s Custom Saddles, Cimarron Trailers; Cinder Lakes Ranch and Reproductive Center; Classic Equine; Horse&Rider; John Deere; Kiser Arena Specialists; Markel Insurance Company; MD Barns; Montana Silversmiths; Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau; Pard’s Western Shop; Platinum Performance; Purina Mills; Quarter Horse News; Rios of Mercedes / Anderson Bean Boot Company; Rocky Mountain Clothing Company; SmartPak and Wimpys Little Step, plus NRHA Derby Event Sponsors Shorty’s Caboy Hattery and Flair.

Incorporated in 1966, the National Reining Horse Association is the governing body of the sport of Reining. To learn more about the NRHA, its programs and family of corporate partners, visit www.nrha.com.