where
Scottsdale, Arizona
what
Cactus Reining Classic
when
March 17–25
The Million Starts Here
Who doesn’t want to hit up sunny Arizona in mid-March to escape the winter doldrums? Plan your trip around the Cactus Reining Classic (cactusreiningclassic.com) and you’ll get to add the excitement of one of reining’s hottest events to your itinerary, including the one and only The Run For A Million Qualifier.
The Facts: $190,000 | Amount of prize money awarded to reiners during the 2022 Cactus Reining Classic. Show managers expect that number to increase in 2023.
Since 2005, reiners and reining fans have traveled from around the country—and now, around the world—for the Cactus Reining. The event will once again be the hub for the single qualifier for The Run For A Million, reining’s richest event and one of the highest-profile shows in history.
This event offers something for every level of reining with an entire slate of National Reining Horse Association-approved classes. Being located in the hot-bed of reining means it’s also a great place to horse-shop for your next mount. With many top barns within a short drive from the WestWorld complex.
New this year: The show has expanded by five days to accommodate the huge increase in entries (almost 3,500 total in 2022). The event also has complete run of the WestWorld facility, which allows for a full-fledged trade show to shop for everything from tack and gear to apparel and more.
Don’t Miss This
explore.
After watching The Cactus Classic events, hop in your car or truck and take a quick drive to cruise down 1. Rio Verde Drive to get a glimpse of some of the most famous Western performance barns in the country. While you’re out that way, continue north to the small town of 2. Cave Creek for great shopping and Western ambiance.
eat.
You don’t have to go far from the WestWorld facility for great, locally recommended dining. If you’re looking for traditional, homestyle Italian, try 3. Sophia’s Kitchen. When you fancy some American fare after a long day at the show, hop over to the DC Ranch location of 4. Liberty Station. You’re almost sure to run into a horse trainer or two enjoying Mexican food and a marg at 5. Jalepeno Inferno.
do.
Visit 6. Old Town Scottsdale for shopping, special events, spa experiences, and more, and while you’re there, check out 7. Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West.
Rub Elbows With the Stars
You’ll want to be sure to stick around for the Celebration of Champions on March 25, following TRFAM qualifier. It will feature a concert, awards presentation, food, and drinks. There, you might meet reining legends you’ve seen on your screen watching The Last Cowboy on TV and win millions in the show pen. And when these big events happen, you never know who might show up from one of Taylor Sheridan’s projects. We can’t guarantee you’ll meet Rip or Kayce, but never say never!
More Events to Check Out
AQHA Versatility Ranch Horse Championships
Reno Snaffle Bit Futurity
NWSS Freestyle Reining
