2026 6666 NRHA Derby® Presented by Markel Non Pro Finals Crown Champions; More Than $650,000 Paid Out Across All Divisions

The 2026 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel concluded its Non Pro competition with standout performances, emotional victories, and record-setting achievements across two sections of finals competition.

This year’s Derby continues to rewrite the record books, and the momentum carried through the Non Pro divisions. With more than $650,000 paid out across all Non Pro divisions, the 2026 event stands as the highest-paying NRHA Derby in history. The record-breaking payouts were matched by unprecedented participation, as Non Pro entries also reached an all-time high, further showcasing the strength and growth of the sport.

When the dust settled, NRHA $2 Million Rider Gina-Maria Schumacher and Take Out The Trash (Gunnatrashya x This Chicsdundreamin) emerged as the Level 4 Non Pro Derby Champions. The pair delivered a commanding run worth a 224.5 to secure the title. Owned by CS Ranch LLC, the 6-year-old stallion was bred and nominated by Judy Box.

After topping the preliminary round with a 222, Tristan Bagby and Spark N Inferno (Inferno Sixty Six x Shiner Light) continued their impressive momentum in the finals, marking a 223.5 to capture the Level 3 Championship. The 7-year-old stallion was nominated by owner and breeder Teresa Wynn.

In Level 2, Lilly Walters piloted Gunna Prosper (Gunnatrashya x Whizen Starlight) to the championship with a score of 218. Owned by Diamond Dub Quarter Horses, the 6-year-old gelding was bred by George King and nominated by Jackson Porath.

Jennifer Vannietvelt secured the Level 1 Championship aboard Krypttonite (Gunners Special Nite x Genuinley Jo) with a score of 217.5. Owned by Vannietvelt, the 4-year-old gelding was bred and nominated by Pondhill Performance Horses.

The Prime Time Championship belonged to Tricia Leone and Alpha Queen (Wimpy Chic x Chexanicki), who posted a strong 219 to earn top honors. The 7-year-old mare was nominated by breeder Alpha Quarter Horses.

In the Masters division, Greg Hall and Dontletheblondfoolya (Pale Face Dunit x Cinnabars Lil Whiz) earned the championship with an impressive 222. Owned by Greg and Mary Anne Hall, the 7-year-old mare was bred and nominated by KR Smith.

Rising to the top of the Youth division, Sarah Rose Jons and Super Inferno (Inferno Sixty Six x Secret Rider) marked a 221.5 to claim the championship. Owned by Sotol Investments LLC, the 5-year-old stallion was bred and nominated by Curt and Cindy Engen. Jons was also reserve champion in the Youth Derby aboard Let Err Rip (Magnum Chic Dream x Gunner Be Custom), another Sotol Investments, LLC entry who was bred and nominated by Rodion Cantacuzene Jr.

From first-time finalists realizing lifelong goals to seasoned competitors adding another title to their résumés, the 2026 NRHA Non Pro Derby Finals showcased the depth of talent, dedication, and excitement that define Non Pro competition. With a historic Non Pro Derby now complete, attention turns to the Open divisions, where even more record purses and elite competition await.

Open Derby Finals action begins tomorrow at 8 a.m. in the OG&E Coliseum.