The National Reining Horse Association announces that the 2025 Adequan® North American Affiliate Championships (NAAC), postponed due to concerns with the equine herpesvirus (EHV), will be conducted in conjunction with the 2026 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel, scheduled for June 8–21, 2026, in Oklahoma City.
Following the postponement, NRHA reviewed available rescheduling options with consideration for horse welfare, member participation, and operational feasibility. Holding the 2025 Adequan® NAAC during the Derby provides a practical framework that supports participation while using an established event with the capacity, facilities, and infrastructure required for a championship-level competition.
“Conducting the postponed 2025 Adequan® NAAC during the NRHA Derby allows the association to complete the championship in a manner that is consistent with our standards for horse welfare and competitive integrity,” said Billy Smith, NRHA Commissioner. “The Derby offers the scale and resources necessary to accommodate the event appropriately.”
Aligning the Adequan® NAAC with the Derby reduces additional travel and stabling demands, improves scheduling efficiency, and places affiliate qualifiers within one of NRHA’s highest-attended events. NRHA believes this timing is attractive to a broad range of competitors as it coincides with the NRHA Derby—one of the sport’s premier summer events—creating an opportunity for exhibitors to maximize their experience while minimizing logistical challenges. NRHA believes this approach maintains the integrity and recognition of the NAAC while providing a clear path forward following the postponement.
Additional details regarding qualifications, schedules, and entry information will be released in the coming months.
FAQs:
- Q: If my eligibility changes for 2026, will I still be able to show in the class I qualified for in 2025?
A: Yes. Qualifications earned for the 2025 Adequan® NAAC will carry forward to the rescheduled event. For any other classes held at the NRHA Derby, current NRHA eligibility rules will apply. - Q: I qualified for the Youth 14–18 division for 2025, but I will no longer be a Youth member in 2026. Can I still show in the NAAC Youth 14–18 at the postponed event?
A: Yes. You may compete in the Adequan® NAAC Youth 14–18 at the 2026 NRHA Derby. However, you must hold the correct membership type to show as a rider. Associate and General memberships do not meet this requirement.
Additional considerations will be made soon regarding items like the rescheduling of the Unbeetable Feeds Showdowns, possible substitutions of sold horses, etc. Once a determination is made, those details will be announced to the membership.
