Competition is very serious in the show pen, but outside the arena, fun awaits at the Southwest Reining Horse Association Futurity presented by Billingsley Ford.

The show is set for October 16-21 at the Hardy Murphy Coliseum in Ardmore, Okla., and the first social event of the week, the Gunners Special Nite Open Draw Party, happens after the last class of the day on Thursday, October 18. Attendees can enjoy the convivial atmosphere as Open Finalists choose their working order and enjoy drinks and hors d’oeuvres courtesy of Gunners Special Nite, the double gold medal-winning stallion owned by Sarah Willeman of Turnabout Farm. The Draw Party is also the place to bid on the embryo transfer and recipient mare services generously donated by South Farm.

On Friday night, October 19, don’t miss the Back Gate Pizza Party, sponsored by Einsteins Revolution. It is open to everyone, but be prepared: this is no ordinary party. It will be highlighted by the Wacky Hat Contest to benefit Rein In Cancer! Decorate the lid of your choice and make it as crazy and creative as you can. For a $10.00 donation, enter it in the Wacky Hat Contest! The entry judged to be the wackiest hat wins a custom 50x hat, donated by Shorty’s Caboy Hattery and, of course, all of the proceeds support Rein In Cancer.

Often tagged “Where the Best Go First,” the SWRHA Futurity is a must-attend event for reiners. For most, it is the final stop before the National Reining Horse Association Futurity, which begins November 22 in Oklahoma City. It is supported by a group of sponsors led by Billingsley Ford, Winstar Casino, Anderson Bean Boot Company, the South Farm and Jerry Kimmel.

For a detailed schedule and information about the SWRHA Futurity, visit www.SWRHA.com.