Back 2 Basics, Big Show, Big Prizes, Big Fun
Robin Bradford Monthly Editorial
The 2022 Back 2 Basics AQHA Circuit came into the year with a roar, once again cementing itself as the largest AQHA show on the west coast prior to Sun Circuit. This year the show started with 2 clear days but cold winds, then had it’s typical beautiful weather and the exhibitors were enjoying the sunshine.
Held at the first class Murieta Equestrian Center in Rancho Murieta, CA., the 5 day event draws a lot of exhibitors from a large variety of western states & Canada. Professionally managed by TEEM (Total Equine Event Management), the annual event has always experienced large classes providing the opportunity for a lot of AQHA World Show qualifying points up for grabs.
OPEN DERBY
The Dirt & Diamonds NRCHA Derby portion of the show continues to draw increased attention. Since it’s inception the derby has been supported by Dan Perez and his great stallion Brother Jackson, as well as Ken & Ramona Wold. Some of the nation’s top 4- and 5-year-old cow horses competed in this prestigious reined cow horse event.
Each year on the west coast the NRCHA season kicks off with this popular cow horse derby – the Dirt & Diamonds Derby, sanctioned by the NRCHA, is open to all breeds. Reined cow horse is the “Ultimate Triathlon” of the horse competition world, combining cutting, reining and fence work. If you’ve never seen this event, but are a fan of Nascar, it is truly a great spectator sport watching the speed, agility & thrill of these incredible athletes.
Jerry Alvord, NRCHA Representative, reported, “We had some really nice horses competing here again this year. We couldn’t do it without the generous support of our great sponsors Brother Jackson and the Wold family.”
The Dirt & Diamonds Derby Open Champion was Smooth Outta Style, shown by Tucker Robinson for owners Velaquez/Weinhart. This team was last years Reserve Champion and were consistent from the first day closing the deal with a combined score of 439 and taking home the new sculpture trophy, crystal medal, UltraCruz products and a check for $2,632.