HI FORM WATER WHEEL
REINING CLASSIC 2026
The Hi Form Water Wheel Reining Classic is set to be one of the largest reining events in the country, bringing together top riders, outstanding horses, and exciting competition.
The 2026 program features major highlights including the $3,000 L4 Open Futurity, $5,500 L4 Open Derby, and $2,000 Open, along with the prestigious Run For A Million Qualifiers and the popular Beginner Super Challenge.
With opportunities for riders across multiple levels and thrilling reining action throughout the event, it promises to be a standout show on the Australian reining calendar.
Entries open in March – don’t miss your chance to be part of the action!
THE RUN FOR A MILLION QUALIFIER
BEGINNER SUPER CHALLENGE
The Run For A Million Qualifier at the Hi Form Water Wheel Reining Classic offers eligible Non Pro, Rookie, and Youth riders a unique opportunity to secure their place on one of the biggest stages in the sport. Held right here in Australia, this exciting qualifier allows competitors to pursue their dream of competing at the prestigious The Run for a Million finals in Las Vegas.
The qualifier will be run concurrently with the corresponding Water Wheel Reining Classic classes, meaning riders compete within their usual divisions while also being eligible for qualification if they have entered the Run For A Million qualifier. The top five riders from each division — Non Pro, Rookie, and Youth — will earn qualification to compete at the finals.
Those successful riders will advance to the The Run for a Million finals, taking place in Las Vegas from 9–16 August 2026, where they will represent Australia among the world’s best reining competitors in this internationally celebrated event.
To find out more about the event and what awaits qualifiers in Las Vegas, visit https://therunforamillion.com/
The Water Wheel Reining Classic Beginner Super Challenge, proudly sponsored by Domain & Co, is a fantastic feature of this year’s event, designed especially for riders starting their journey in the sport of Reining. This division provides a welcoming and supportive environment where beginner competitors can gain valuable show experience while showcasing the skills and progress they have worked hard to develop.
The competition will be run over two go-rounds during the week, with scores from these rounds determining the finalists. The top ten competitors, plus ties, will advance to the Beginner Super Challenge Final, held on the final day of the Water Wheel Reining Classic, creating an exciting conclusion for riders, supporters, and spectators alike.
The Beginner Super Challenge celebrates the dedication and effort of new riders, with trophy rugs, sashes, and a range of prizes up for grabs. It’s a wonderful opportunity for beginner competitors to step into the spotlight, build confidence in the show pen, and be recognised for their commitment to learning and participating in this exciting discipline.
The Water Wheel Reining Classic Beginner Super Challenge conditions will be available soon!
