Reining takes the spotlight this June at the Cowtown Reining Classic in Fort Worth

The Cowtown Reining Classic returns to Fort Worth, Texas, with more than $100,000 in added money. Held alongside the American Paint Horse Association World Championship Show, it’s the richest NRHA-approved Paint and all-breed reining event. Hosted in the Covered Pavilion at the Will Rogers Memorial Center, this high-stakes competition draws top riders and elite horses, and features can’t-miss runs in one of reining’s most exciting arenas.

where

Fort Worth, Texas

what

Cowtown Reining Classic

With $100,500 added, the Cowtown Reining Classic offers $85,000 for NRHA-approved Paint-only classes and $15,000 for all-breed entries. Key events include The Run For A Million Non-Pro and Rookie Level 1 & 2 Qualifier and APHA World Championship reining classes. Plus the event offers a full slate of NRHA sweepstakes classes, including 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-, 7-, and 8-year-old divisions for both open and non-pro riders. New in 2025 is the Two Ravens Foundation Veterans Slide on June 25, where military veterans compete in a reining exhibition honoring their service. All reining classes will be held in the Covered Pavilion while the Will Rogers Coliseum is under renovation, and fans who can’t attend the event in person can livestream every run from anywhere (apha.com).

The Facts: $100K

The purse makes the event the world’s richest NRHA-approved Paint Horse reining.

Don’t Miss This in Fort Worth

explore.

Come for the Cowtown Reining Classic and stay for the 1. The APHA World Show. With a field of beautiful and talented Paint Horses taking center stage, you can also catch horses of various breeds shining in all-breed classes. When you’re finished watching your favorite class, check out the 2. World of Color Gift Show for all your Western wear, tack, and souvenir needs.

eat.

When you’re ready for a night on the town, and hungry for a real Western meal, check out 3. Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse to indulge in a fine steak that is cooked to perfection. Or get your outdoor patio fix at  4. Woodshed Smokehouse for a river view and good food. 

do.

Experience the charm of the Old West at 5. Stockyard Stables where you can enjoy a 45-minute trail ride along the Trinity River, down the historic Old Chisholm Trail. 

Check out more events here.

Making History

The Cowtown Reining Classic is hosted in Fort Worth, Texas, a town affectionally nicknamed Cowtown for it’s historical importance as a main hub for the cattle industry. The city’s location along the Chisholm Trail started its reputation as a central point for cowboys and cattlemen alike.