The Expo Square in Tulsa, Oklahoma may be quiet now, but behind the scenes, it is bustling with activity. The National Reining Breeders Classic kicked off last Wednesday as part of an extended schedule that included four futurities to start the event. After four days of competition, Sunday was a day of rest and regrouping, with the main event set to begin in less than 18 hours.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced the NRBC to postpone its original show day in April, and eventually move the event to Tulsa. The Global Reining Sports Group, which owns the Tulsa Reining Classic, graciously acquiesced to loan the dates to the NRBC, resulting in one large super NRBC. To give trainers and owners another option to show their 3-year-old futurity horses, the NRBC Board elected to retain the four futurities that are Tulsa Reining Classic regulars.

 More than 360 futurity horses walked through the gate of the Ford Truck Arena during the four days of competition, paying out an incredible $211,190. As everyone moves their focus from the futurity horses to the Classic, Classic Challenge, ancillary, and Affiliate Regional Championships, last-minute preparations are underway.

Although more than 1,500 stalls were reserved for the event, the numerous arenas scattered across the Expo Square ensure that every exhibitor has plenty of room to get ready. While the NRBC might have a different location, look, and feel, there’s no doubt that the caliber of horses competing in the coming week will be off the charts.

There are many ways to keep up with the Million Dollar Show. The live webcast and live scoring, as well as the schedule, results, and draws, can be accessed at www.NRBC.com. Regular updates are also posted on the NRBC’s Facebook page. You can sign up to receive daily newsletters from the event by clicking here.