With a combination of record-breaking memberships and more NRHA-approved shows than at any other time in its more than 40-year history, the National Reining Horse Association continues the phenomenal growth trend of recent years. At the end of 2006, NRHA had 14,157 members as compared with today’s 15,265, an increase of more than 1,000 members at this time.

Of the 15,265 members worldwide, the United States continues to register the largest number – 10,666 members. Ahead of the other states number-wise is Texas with 1,298 members, while California is close behind with 1196, Colorado is next with 727 members followed by Ohio, the birthplace of the association, with 480 members. Finally, rounding out the top five is Arizona with 439.

Canadian provinces have 1101 members with Alberta topping the list with 292 members. Ontario and Quebec have 227 and 233, respectively. Internationally, there are 3,498 NRHA members. Germany (575) and Italy (523), two countries with a long reining history, exceed Switzerland and Australia’s 289-member roster. Austria (257) and The Netherlands (245) are next in line.

Hand and hand with the increase in members, show approvals have experienced explosive growth. In 2006, NRHA approved 660 shows. In 2007, 711 shows have been approved worldwide. The United States sought approval of 464 shows, while Canadian approvals grew by 10, from 90 to 100. International shows grew by 14, from 133 to 147.

The National Reining Horse Association’s growth is indicative of the ever-increasing popularity of the sport of Reining worldwide.