Oklahoma City, OK - Interest and participation in the National Reining Horse Association has never been greater! The association continues to exhibit phenomenal growth, especially in the areas of membership and approved shows. During its June meeting, the NRHA’s Board of Directors announced a year-to-date increase of 4.5% in memberships for 2006. The Board also announced a significant growth in NRHA approved shows, especially in international venues where there’s been an increase of more than 33% in 2006 vs. 2005.

NRHA, responsible for the promotion and governance of the sport of Reining, is gratified by the increase. “We realize that the growth is indicative of the changes, decisions and leadership role that the NRHA Board of Directors has made to enhance the benefits of NRHA membership over the past several years,” said NRHA Executive Director Dan Wall. “As the governing body of the sport of Reining, NRHA is responsible for the promotion of the sport and ensuring the highest standards of competition. Our current growth and direction go hand in hand with the excitement and enthusiasm surrounding the sport and its Olympic aspirations.”

Reining, acknowledged as the fastest growing equestrian sport in the world, has become the focus for western horsemen and women around the world who, through their collective interest in western riding, have embraced Reining’s aspirations of becoming part of the Olympic equestrian lineup in London, 2012.