Key dates in NRHA history, checked against the association’s published milestones.
1966 — NRHA is formed
The National Reining Horse Association was formed in 1966 and incorporated on November 30 of that year.
Checked October 28, 2026. Read the official NRHA source.
1966 — The first NRHA Futurity
The first Futurity took place in Columbus, Ohio. Dale Wilkinson rode Pocorochie Bo to the championship in a field of 24 entries.
Checked October 28, 2026. Read the official NRHA source.
1986 — Oklahoma City and the Hall of Fame
The Futurity moved to Oklahoma City in 1986. NRHA also established its Hall of Fame that year, with Dale Wilkinson as the first inductee.
Checked October 28, 2026. Read the official NRHA source.
2026 — Sixty years of reining
NRHA and its Futurity mark their 60th anniversaries in 2026. The latest Hall of Fame class includes three people and two horses. Meet the 2026 class.
Checked October 28, 2026. Read the official NRHA source.