The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is unwavering in its commitment to the health and welfare of every horse participating in our events. After continued consultation with the State Veterinarians of Oklahoma and Texas and a careful review of the evolving Equine Herpesvirus (EHV-1) situation, NRHA will delay the start of the NRHA Futurity, with move in to begin on Nov. 27.
This will comply with the scientific guidelines for reducing the risk of EHV, which has a 2-10-day incubation period.
Plans to reschedule this year’s Adequan® North American Affiliate Championships (NAAC) are under way and will be communicated soon. Only Futurity horses will be allowed on the grounds to reduce the risk of exposure and horse concentration.
Current information indicates that the confirmed EHV cases remain linked to a single, non-reining event in Waco, Texas, with no evidence of spread into the reining community or into Oklahoma City. However, NRHA recognizes that the scale and open-entry nature of the NAAC presents additional biosecurity challenges that are not present in the Futurity alone. Limiting the event to Futurity horses only significantly reduces traffic, complexity, and overall risk, strengthening the ability to protect the horses competing.
A one-week delay provides meaningful time for animal health officials to continue tracing, monitoring, and confirming that no secondary cases emerge. This brief pause also gives exhibitors and owners the ability to adjust travel plans and arrive with greater confidence.
The NRHA Futurity is a cornerstone of our sport, and proceeding with this single, controlled event—with enhanced biosecurity protocols—reflects NRHA’s commitment to thoughtful, science-based decision-making. Although postponing the Adequan® NAAC is deeply disappointing, prioritizing horse welfare and providing clarity for our community must come first.
NRHA will continue to monitor the situation closely and communicate any updates promptly.
Futurity horses only will move in on Nov. 27, with classes beginning on Nov. 29. A detailed schedule will follow.
