The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is proud to announce that Dan Huss and Duane Latimer have been selected as the 2026 recipients of the prestigious Dale Wilkinson Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing their lasting contributions to the sport of reining and the association.
Established in 2007, the award honors individuals whose dedication, leadership, and passion have shaped the future of reining while embodying the values exemplified by Dale Wilkinson, widely regarded as the father of modern-day reining. Recipients are recognized for making a significant impact on the sport, inspiring others, and leaving a legacy that extends far beyond personal success.
The recipients will be formally recognized at Sliders’ Night Out presented by Toyon Ranch during the 2026 Foals R Us NRHA Futurity® & Adequan® North American Affiliate Championships.
Dan Huss
For more than four decades, Dan Huss has been one of reining’s most respected trainers, competitors, educators, and mentors.
After discovering reining through 4-H and breed shows, Huss attended Findlay College in 1979, where he studied under Dale Wilkinson himself. He later joined the faculty at what is now the University of Findlay, spending 19 years helping shape one of the industry’s premier western equestrian programs while coaching judging teams and developing future professionals.
Throughout his competitive career, Huss has earned numerous accomplishments, including the 1987 NRHA Futurity Limited Open Championship, the 2018 World Equestrian Games Team Gold Medal and Individual Silver Medal, the 2021 NRHA Futurity Professionals Tournament Championship, and multiple NRHA coaching honors. His unforgettable bridleless run at the 2018 AQHA World Championship Show, following an equipment malfunction, became one of the sport’s most widely shared moments and introduced countless new fans to reining.
Beyond the arena, Huss has built a reputation as one of the industry’s greatest teachers. His ability to recognize talent, develop horse-and-rider partnerships, and generously share his knowledge has influenced generations of reiners.
“Dan Huss is a name synonymous with excellence within the reining horse industry,” said NRHA Hall of Famer Mike Flarida. “His most notable contribution is his ability to identify and nurture each rider’s talent to reach his or her full potential while sharing his expertise and passion for the sport.”
Duane Latimer
Few professionals have had a broader international impact on reining than Duane Latimer.
Raised in a horse family in Canada, Latimer helped establish reining as a truly international sport through a career spanning more than four decades across North America and Europe. His accomplishments as an NRHA Futurity Champion, NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider, AQHA World Champion, and World Equestrian Games medalist have made him one of the sport’s most accomplished competitors while inspiring horsemen around the world.
Just as significant as his competitive success has been his commitment to developing others. Latimer has mentored countless non professionals, youth riders, trainers, and horse owners, helping shape the careers of many of today’s successful industry leaders. His willingness to share his knowledge, encourage aspiring professionals, and promote exceptional horsemanship has strengthened the reining community for generations.
As one of Canada’s most influential reining professionals, Latimer also played a pivotal role in expanding NRHA’s reach beyond the United States, helping elevate the visibility and credibility of reining on the international stage.
“Duane has promoted the sport over several decades through his accomplishments in the show pen and through the countless people he has mentored,” said NRHA Professional Marc Wagman. “He has always been willing to share his expertise, ideas, and guidance. That’s what makes him such a true ambassador for our sport.”
Honoring a Lasting Legacy
Named for NRHA Hall of Famer Dale Wilkinson, the Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals whose influence transcends competitive accomplishments through leadership, mentorship, innovation, and service to the sport.
Like Wilkinson himself, both Huss and Latimer have dedicated their careers not only to achieving excellence, but to ensuring future generations have the opportunity to do the same.
The Dale Wilkinson Lifetime Achievement Award recipients will be formally recognized on December 2 at Sliders’ Night Out presented by Toyon Ranch during the 2026 Foals R Us NRHA Futurity® & Adequan® North American Affiliate Championships in Oklahoma City, OK. The event benefits the Reining Horse Foundation, the charitable arm of the NRHA. To make a reservation for individual seats or tables, visit reiningfoundation.com/sno
