On Wednesday, the Novice Horse Open competitors ruled the Adequan^® Arena at the World’s Hottest Reining in Oklahoma City. Competitors vied for trophies and bragging rights in the Novice Horse Non Pro Open Levels 3, 2, and 1. From draw 53, Steve Oullet waited through 124 runs to smile for his win photo as the champion across all levels. The competition continues in the Adequan^® Arena each day of the show, allowing exhibitors of all levels to compete at the prestigious 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel.

NRHA Novice Horse Open Levels 3-1 Slate 1 Champions: TR Ice On Fire and Steve Oullet

2020G (SG Frozen Enterprize x Wallawallawhizagun)	Owner: Sarah Korpela, Aspen, CO
Score: 148.5	Breeder: Tamarack Ranch LLC, Alvarado, TX

“The horse didn’t make the Final in the Non Pro Derby, so the owner, Sarah, gave me a chance to try him out here. I didn’t want to go crazy, but I asked him what he was capable of today, and he was super nice,” Oullet said. “I was not expecting that score before the run, but it was really good. I’ve only ridden him for a month; this was my second time to show him. I can feel how honest he is, and it is definitely exciting because it is not easy to find good-minded horses with heart like this one. I for sure know I can trust him.”

As the dust settles on an exciting day in the Adequan^® Arena, champions like Steve Oullet and TR Ice On Fire remind us what makes the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel so special—the heart, grit, and undeniable talent showcased by horse-and-rider teams of all levels. With more thrilling competition still to come, be sure to follow along as the action continues daily in both the Adequan^® Arena and the OG&E Coliseum. For full schedules, results, and event coverage, visit nrhaderby.com.