The highlight of the year for reined cow horse fans, the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity is back at the Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas. For two weeks, the John Justin Arena is all about 3-year-old cow horses showing off their skills as they compete in herd work, rein work, and fence work, all aiming to make it to the exclusive Finals night. It’s the premier stage for these young horses, and with big payouts and plenty of prestige on the line, the competition is always intense.
Experience the Snaffle Bit Futurity
The Facts
Where
John Justin Arena, Fort Worth, Texas
What
When
Oct. 3-18, 2025
The Show
A far cry from the shows humble beginnings in 1970 where there were only 27 horses competing, the show now boasts hundreds of entries, with competitors and exhibitors traveling from across the world to be part of the excitement. 3-year-olds put their athleticism on full display as they navigate the herd work, rein work, and fence work components of the reined cow horse events.
The highlight of the show takes place on the last day of the event when the top open 3-year-olds go down the fence in front of a roaring crowd. After navigating preliminary qualification rounds, to make it to the Open Finals, horses have to prove their mettle and beat out huge classes of other top athletes.
Western Bloodstock NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Horse Sales
The NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Western Bloodstock Sale offers buyers the chance to shop some of the best cow horse prospects. The sale features everything from yearlings and 2-year-olds to performance horses and broodmares. With the Snaffle Bit Futurity Sale Incentive, horses purchased through the sale are eligible for bonus payouts if they return to the Futurity arena.
Trade Show
With more than 90 trade show vendors, hours of shopping can take place in between watching classes. Grab a new pair of boots or chat with stallion stations about breeding your favorite mare!
Special Events
Costume Leadline – October 11
A fan favorite, the youngest riders get their chance to shine in this adorable costume class. Expect plenty of creativity and crowd cheers.
Buckaroo Class – October 11
The Buckaroo Class gives young and developing riders a chance to compete in a fun, supportive environment. Riders are divided into divisions based on experience, with rules and challenges tailored to each level.
Goat Roping – October 12
Roping skills will be on display in this lighthearted, fast-paced event.
Draw Party – October 14
Celebrate the excitement of the Finals with the official draw party. Open, Intermediate Open, Limited Open
Non Pro & Non Pro Boxing riders find out their draw positions while the crowd gets to share in the anticipation.
Open Finals Block Party, Watch Party, and After Party – October 18
Due to a limited amount of seating available in the John Justin Arena, the excitement of the Open Finals heads out to the Burnett Tandy for hours of entertainment. Kick off Finals with the Block Party, cheer on the riders at the Watch Party, and then close out the Futurity in style at the After Party.
