NRCHA History

Preserving the Reined Cow Horse Since 1949

The National Reined Cow Horse Association was established in 1949 to preserve the traditions and skills of the working cow horse. Its competition program reflects the vaquero training progression from snaffle bit through hackamore and two-rein to the finished bridle horse.

Signature Championships

NRCHA’s premier events include the Snaffle Bit Futurity, Stallion Stakes, Derby, Hackamore Classic and Celebration of Champions. The World’s Greatest Horseman, first held in 1999, is part of the Celebration of Champions and tests one horse and rider in four events.

Then and Now

Ted Robinson and Katie Starlight won the inaugural WGH in 1999. Jordan Williams and Jaymes Bond won in 2026. Corey Cushing and Russell Dilday share the most rider titles with three apiece.

Official Information

NRCHA’s published headquarters address is 9702 Mineral Wells Highway, Weatherford, Texas 76088. Use the association’s official pages for current event locations, rules, memberships and results.