The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) proudly welcomes seven distinguished partners to its growing network of industry leaders dedicated to advancing the sport of reining and the western performance horse community. These new partnerships exemplify the shared values of horsemanship, integrity, and a commitment to the future of the equine industry. They will be attending the 2025 Futurity & Adequan North American Affiliate Championships in Oklahoma City, November 24 to December 6, 2025.
Empire Ranch
Empire Ranch enters this partnership with NRHA as a symbol of quality and forward-thinking leadership in the equine industry. Whether for seasoned reining competitors or devoted horse enthusiasts, Empire Ranch raises horses in a nurturing environment that emphasizes temperament, trainability, and athletic ability. Their breeding program is defined by passion, integrity, and a long-standing commitment to advancing the performance horse industry.
Ixtul Quarter Horses and Noble Equine
Ixtul Quarter Horses, in partnership with Noble Equine, brings a global dimension to the NRHA community. Founded by the Vargas Sánchez family after years of success in the industry, Ixtul operates breeding programs in both Mexico and the United States. The operation is recognized for its use of advanced reproductive technologies and its dedication to producing reining horses with superior conformation, athleticism, and disposition. Together with Noble Equine, Ixtul represents a bridge between tradition and innovation in international reining.
JBJ Ranch
With a breeding program structured around elite genetics, rigorous selection, and technical preparation focused on performance, JBJ Ranch expands its operations and strengthens its presence in the heart of the global Quarter Horse industry. Its new ranch in Texas is born as a direct extension of the philosophy developed in Brazil, where animal welfare, excellence in management, and a long-term vision guide every decision in breeding and herd development. By combining tradition, innovation, and a strategic presence in the world’s leading hub for the breed, the brand reinforces its global vocation and positions itself as a benchmark in the creation of highly competitive horses. This step not only expands borders but also reaffirms JBJ’s commitment to the continuous evolution of equine genetics.
“Partnering with the National Reining Horse Association, a global reference for the Quarter Horse, is fully aligned with JBJ Ranch’s goal of international expansion and the recognition of our genetics. This partnership is a natural step for those committed to continuous evolution and improvement. The NRHA is more than a global showcase: it is a community dedicated to raising the standard of the sport. We are proud to grow alongside those who so masterfully promote reining sport on the world stage.” – FABRÍCIO BATISTA, JBJ RANCH USA.
Morgan Reiners and The Firemen
Morgan Reiners and the acclaimed stallion The Firemen bring dynamic energy and proven success to NRHA. The Firemen, by Inferno Sixty Six and out of Redhot Walla, has earned a reputation as one of the highest-earning young reining horses in history, with record-breaking performances including NRHA Futurity titles. The stallion’s athleticism, charisma, and pedigree position him as a leader of the next generation of reining excellence. Morgan Reiners’ passion for horsemanship and commitment to developing world-class reining prospects exemplify the NRHA’s mission.
Oklahoma Stud
Oklahoma Stud, located in Purcell, Oklahoma, is steeped in Quarter Horse breeding history. The 135-acre ranch sits in the heart of horse country and has been home to some of the most notable stallions in the industry, including Invitation Only, Hot and Blazing, Dash For Perks, and PYC Paint Your Wagon. The facility offers a full range of specialized reproductive services and is known for its exceptional care for stallions, mares, and foals alike.
“Partnering with NRHA allows us to continue Oklahoma Stud’s tradition of excellence, support the equine community, and invest in the future of the industry,” said a representative of Oklahoma Stud. “The legacy lives on.”
Shenandoah Ranch
Shenandoah Ranch, located in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley of California, is dedicated to breeding and raising elite reining and performance horses. The operation combines modern facilities with a hands-on, family-driven approach, creating an environment where horses are developed for success in the arena and beyond. We believe in mare power and we selected mares with priority on their dams and black type pedigree. We are thriving for quality, not quantity; Adding daughters of million dollar producers Wind Her Up Chic , Ruf Lil Dunit , Stop little Sister , Blazing In Black among others, and matched with todays top sires we are hoping for exceptional prospects. Follow the website to see what’s available and coming!
Shining Spark. The sire of yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
$10 Million Sire Shining Spark has led the Western performance horse industry for nearly three decades. His influence reaches every major arena, with offspring winning at the highest levels—including the NRHA Open Level 4 Futurity Champion title. But Shining Spark’s impact doesn’t stop in the arena. He is the undisputed leader as a maternal sire—reigning as the number one maternal grandsire in the cow horse world and number two in reining. His daughters continue to produce the kind of talent that shapes the record books. Behind this legendary sire is the lifelong commitment of Carol Rose, whose dedication kept Shining Spark at the forefront of the breed and built a foundation of excellence still unmatched today. And through modern advancements like the ICSI process, the next generation of Shining Sparks is here—and winning. From proven champions to the future stars now entering the show pen, Shining Spark remains the sire of yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
A Shared Vision for the Future
“The NRHA is proud to welcome these incredible partners to our community,” says Christy Landwehr, NRHA Senior Director of Corporate Relations. “Their dedication to excellence, innovation, and the western performance horse industry strengthens our collective mission—to preserve the heritage of reining while shaping its future.”
