Reining is a judged event designed to show the athletic ability of a ranch type horse within the confines of a show arena. In National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Competition, contestants are required to run a pre-selected, approved pattern, included in the NRHA Handbook.

Each pattern includes small slow circles, large fast circles, flying lead changes, roll backs over the hocks, 360-degree spins done in place, and exciting sliding stops that are the hallmark of the reining horse.

Cutting is a western-style equestrian competition in which a horse and rider work together before a judge or panel of judges to demonstrate the horse’s athleticism and ability to handle cattle. Competition utilizes a 2+1⁄2 minute performance, called a “run.”

Each contestant is assisted by four helpers and is required to make at least two cuts from the herd, one of which must be a cut from deep inside the herd while the other(s) can be peeled from the edges. Once the selected cow has been driven clear of the herd, the contestant commits the horse by dropping the rein hand to feed slack and give the horse its head.