2004 NRCHA Derby Slated for July 7-11

Reined Cow Horse Action Returns to Paso Robles

June 21, 2004 - On the heels of the NRCHA Hackamore Classic held at the California Mid-State Fairgrounds in Paso Robles, California, the National Reined Cow Horse Association will return to wine country for its NRCHA Derby July 7-11.

Tagged "Where the Best Go Next" the NRCHA Derby features 4- and 5-year-old cow horses, and gives post futurity horses a further chance for great earnings. They are shown in a snaffle bit, whether or not they have been shown in a bridle elsewhere in their career, which is an exception to the normally strict bridle rule of the National Reined Cow Horse Association.

Last years Derby champion was former NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Open Champion Jon Roeser of Lemoore, Calif. He won the 2003 NRCHA Derby Open Championship on Very Smart Remedy, owned by NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Non Pro Champion, Anne Reynolds. The win, worth $14,200, became the latest chapter in an already outstanding career for the 4-year-old stallion as he had already earned the 2003 NRCHA Hackamore Classic open title – winning every division of competition. Roeser and Very Smart Remedy will attempt to defend their titles when the event begins on July 7.

The strong support of the Paso Robles community was the deciding factor in locating two of the NRCHA's events at the California Mid-State Fair Arena. NRCHA Sponsor Committee Chairman Carol Rose was enthusiastic about the move and praised the Paso Robles business community for its support of the event. She cited Jack and Phoebe Cook, NRCHA Derby and Hackamore Classic Patrons, for their support.

Rose also noted the contribution of Hackamore Classic and NRCHA Derby Sponsors George and Sue Hearst, Golden Hills Auto Center, San Juan Ranch, Paso Robles Inn, Plaza Cleaners/Goforth Equestrian, Lacey Livestock Quarter Horses, Rick Machado and J.B.Dewar, Inc./Ken and Sandy Dewar.

Rose noted, "The facility is wonderful and the Paso Robles area is definitely horse country, loaded with western heritage. It's a great place to showcase the reined cow horses."

Mid-State Fair to Host Barbecue

According to its Executive Director Vivian Sayler, the California Mid-State Fair will host a complimentary Barbecue on Friday of NRCHA Derby week in Paso Robles. Set to begin at 6 pm on July 9, the event is free for all exhibitors, guests and sponsors.

The festivities will take place in "The Barn' located next to the arena on the fairgrounds.

National Reined Cow Horse Association President Benny Guitron commented. The support from the Mid-State Fair management and staff has been tremendous. The facility is exceptional and we're very glad to be associated with the California Mid-State Fair facility and the community of Paso Robles.