Reining: much more than a sport

Reining, among the specialties of American equestrianism, is the queen of them all. The only one to be officially recognized by the FEI, it stands out among other disciplines as the sole “cowboy” presence at the World Equestrian Games (WEG).

Born in the United States, where it can be considered a national sport in certain states, reining has found its European home in Italy. The success of our Italian reining riders is so vast that many have been “recruited” by the top American stables in this discipline. This topic was at the heart of the latest meeting of the Federal Council, which was held on January 31st.

In fact, the Council approved the update to the discipline’s regulations and gave the Federal President, Marco Di Paola, the mandate to renew, on February 15th at the annual assembly of the IRHA (Italian Reining Horse Association), the four-year agreement that started back in 2002. With the renewal in mid-February, the agreement between FISE and IRHA will continue at least until 2028, ensuring a bright future for American equestrian disciplines in Italy.

The IRHA, Italy’s reference association for the American NRHA, and chaired by Eleuterio Arcese, has played a pivotal role in the more than 20 years of collaboration with FISE to develop the reining discipline and has supported the Federation through a long and fruitful sporting journey.

Upcoming Events and Innovations

Looking ahead to 2025, all eyes are on the World Championship, which will take place in Givrins, Switzerland, from July 7-12. It’s an event where Italy will have to defend many titles won in 2023. However, it’s not only the top champions who are highlighted in this ever-growing discipline.

Numerous projects have been launched to cater to amateurs and young riders, with the most awaited one being the “Saggio delle Scuole” (Schools’ Show). Italy is also at the forefront in breeding, as a project in collaboration with MASAF and breed associations is underway to promote the creation of a genealogical book dedicated to the Italian reining horse.

A Way of Life

One of the aspects that has made reining a force to be reckoned with in the equestrian world is that practitioners don’t just do a sport—they embrace a lifestyle, becoming one with it. Anyone who approaches American equestrianism understands this immediately: the horse comes first. It’s not just a tool, but a partner without whom one couldn’t pursue their passion, whether it’s a job or a sport.

The respect and friendship that develops between horse and rider is fundamental and is the most captivating part of this world with its ancient and fascinating roots. Reining was born in Texas in the 19th century, emerging from the work of cowboys who performed various and complex maneuvers on horseback to move, separate, or round up cattle. From this genuine work, reining was born, literally “to guide with the reins,” and it has since spread from the United States to the rest of the world.

Today, reining competitions are held in arenas around the globe, with horses and riders of varying levels and skills. Riders are required to perform “patterns,” or courses where different maneuvers are repeated in different sequences and levels of difficulty. It is up to the judge to determine the winner—the pair with the highest score.

The essential maneuvers in reining include: circles of various sizes and speeds performed at different gaits, the spin—a 360° rotation on the spot, the sliding stop—the dramatic halt that kicks up the arena dust, the back—the reverse, and the rollback—a galloping turn around.

A Winning Bet

For all these reasons, the Federation firmly believes in reining, which continues to grow year after year. More and more centers are specializing in this discipline, and the number of enthusiasts choosing the western lifestyle is steadily increasing.

Reining schools are expanding rapidly, and the goal is to create an ever-broader recreational sector to help the discipline gain more recognition and visibility.

Elena Pecora

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