Sunday’s slate in the Adequan® Arena showcased the rising talent in Classic Equine Green Reiner and Rookie divisions. These classes provide a welcoming and competitive environment for those new to the sport, offering an unforgettable experience in the same arena as some of reining’s greatest. With determination, heart, and the support of the NRHA community behind them, these riders are proving that every great journey starts with a first spin.
Learn more about how to start your reining journey with Entry Level classes at nrha.com/entrylevel.
Classic Equine Green Reiner Levels 1 and 2 Co-Champions: Angel Baer and Whiz Wound Up
| 2017G (Walla Walla Whiz x Wound Up Wimp) | Owner: Steven Deskin, Dallas, TX |
| Score: 140.5 | Breeder: Carl Lambert, Hempstead, TX |
“This was my third time showing him [Whiz Wound Up],” Baer said. “I’ve connected with him a lot, and I am very excited for what’s next.”
Classic Equine Green Reiner Levels 1 and 2 Co-Champions: Vivian Bives and Fridee Spook
| 2015G (Smart Spook x Dun It Fri Dee Nite) | Owner: Vivian Bives, Austin, TX |
| Score: 140.5 | Breeder: Rosanne Sternberg, Aubrey, TX |
“I am surrounded by some really good people,” said Bives. “I have been given a lot of amazing opportunities, specifically by my mom, to be able to have this horse. He is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of horse for me.”
Rookie Levels 1 and 2 Champions: Hallie Blair and Spookneedsacocktail
| 2014G (Wimpyneedsacocktail x Snap Crackle Spook) | Owner: Hallie A Blair |
| Score: 144.5 | Breeder: Leonardo Guimaraes |
“I’m just so proud of him and everything that we have done together; a win like this really means a lot to us,” said Blair. “There’s always something to work on, so we’ll definitely be practicing throughout the week.”
Rookie Prime Time Champions: Teresa Roller and Nevver Outta Style
| 2019M (Spooks Gotta Whiz x Do It Different) | Owner: Teresa L Roller |
| Score: 139.5 | Breeder: Cathay Kolsun |
“I haven’t had her that long, maybe about a year, we’re still getting it together, so today is a really good day for us,” Roller said. “She did everything I asked her to do. If anything, there was maybe a pilot error here and there, which was totally on me, but she did great. I love her.”
As the dust settles on an inspiring day in the Adequan® Arena, it’s clear that the future of reining is in talented hands. From first-time competitors to rookies finding their rhythm, today’s champions demonstrated the heart, grit, and sportsmanship that define the NRHA family.
The excitement continues Monday with the highly anticipated ancillary Open, Intermediate Open, and Limited Open classes, as well as the youth-focused 13 & Under and 14–18 divisions. Make plans to join us as another day of thrilling competition kicks off in the Adequan® Arena.
For schedules, draws, and more event details, visit nrhaderby.com.
