Think you know a +1 stop when you see one? How quickly can you spot a penalty? You can put your reining knowledge to the test from the judge’s perspective.
The NRHA Collegiate & Youth Reining Judging Contest returns to the 2026 Foals R Us NRHA Futurity & Adequan® North American Affiliate Championship—giving youth an opportunity to sharpen their eye, learn more about how reining is judged, and compete as a team.
Contestants will evaluate reining runs, take a penalty clip test, and complete a written test based on NRHA judging materials. Along the way, they’ll gain a better understanding of what judges see—and why the score ends up where it does.
NRHyA is encouraging more youth to take advantage of the opportunity to compete in the judging contest. NRHA Affiliates and NRHA Professionals are invited to identify four youth, build a team and bring them to Oklahoma City. Teams can be organized through an NRHA Affiliate, individual barn, 4-H or FFA program. Already judging horses through 4-H or FFA? Put those skills to work in reining.
“I have been competing in the NRHA Judging Contest with my FFA team for the last two years. It was the best experience. Last year, I took home the first-place spot. Spending time with my friends and learning as well as doing what I love has been so much fun,” said Ireland Lawler, 2026-2027 NRHyA historian. “I’d like to encourage more youth reiners to invite anyone who’s interested to do this contest. It is truly the best experience, and it can even turn into something you do in college.”
Today’s youth judging contestants can become tomorrow’s collegiate and NRHA judges. Build your team. Study up. Then see how your scores stack up. There are awards for champion and reserve teams and individuals.
QUICK FACTS
WHO: The Youth division is for ages 13–18
TEAMS: Four members recommended; three may compete
ENTRY: $25 per contestant
WHEN: Nov. 30–Dec. 1
WHERE: Foals R Us NRHA Futurity, Oklahoma City
ENTRY DEADLINE: Nov. 9 LATE ENTRY DEADLINE: Nov. 16
WHO CAN FORM A YOUTH TEAM: NRHA Affiliates, barns, 4-H and FFA programs
INDIVIDUALS: Individual entries are also accepted
RESOURCES, DETAILS AND ENTRY FORM: nhjtca.org
