The 20th Annual Cactus Reining Classic brought the Western world’s grit, drama, and high-stakes competition to Scottsdale at WestWorld of Scottsdale.
This elite event, co-owned by Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan and Scottsdale’s own Amanda Brumley, was not only a showcase of world-class horsemanship but also a celebration of cowboy culture at its finest. For those captivated by the Western revival sparked by Sheridan’s storytelling, this was the ultimate opportunity to experience the action up close.
As the sole qualifier for The Run for a Million in Las Vegas this August, the Cactus Reining Classic was a career-defining event for riders competing for a shot at the sport’s most prestigious title and a $1 million grand prize. Unlike traditional equestrian competitions, reining demanded a blend of speed, precision, and technical mastery.
Riders performed a thrilling series of complex maneuvers, including spins, sliding stops, rollbacks, and lead changes, all judged on accuracy, fluidity, and control. Last year, the event was broadcast in 55 countries, drawing a massive audience and solidifying its reputation as one of the premier competitions in Western performance disciplines.
Beyond the arena, attendees had the rare opportunity to see Taylor Sheridan himself, along with stars from The Last Cowboy. With meet-and-greets, autograph signings, and the chance to witness top industry talent in action, the event offered more than just competition—it was a full-scale Western experience
For those looking to embrace the cowboy lifestyle, the event’s Western Experience Marketplace featured a curated selection of high-end Western fashion, handcrafted saddles, fine art, jewelry, home décor, and gourmet ranch-style cuisine. The Cactus Reining Classic was not just for seasoned equestrians; it was an immersive experience designed to showcase Western culture’s heritage, craftsmanship, and excitement.
With an estimated 15,000 attendees, the Cactus Reining Classic has become one of the NRHA’s top 10 events, attracting elite riders, industry leaders, and fans of Western culture worldwide.
As Amanda Brumley noted, the growing influence of stars like Taylor Sheridan is bringing Western performance disciplines into the mainstream, making events like this more popular than ever.
For those who attended in 2025, it was the ultimate Western experience. Admission was free, and with its unique blend of high-stakes competition, Hollywood presence, and Western tradition, the Cactus Reining Classic proved to be an unforgettable celebration of cowboy culture.
