Organizers of The Run For A Million have announced an update to the qualification process for competitors outside North America to compete in the 2026 event, scheduled for August 9-15 at the South Point Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.
In August, TRFAM introduced a two-step qualification process that added a Semi-Final round at the 6666 National Reining Horse Association Derby presented by Markel. The change came after record-breaking entry numbers at TRFAM 2025. While the strong turnout was evidence of the event’s popularity, it also created long days and crowded schedules. To ensure that the riders advancing to TRFAM represent the highest levels of competition and to maintain an exceptional experience for riders and spectators alike, the Semi-Finals were introduced.
For riders outside North America, however, the distance to the NRHA Derby in Oklahoma City presented additional challenges. To balance competitive integrity with accessibility, TRFAM owner Taylor Sheridan made the decision to accept five qualifiers per division, per continent (Non Pro, Rookie 1, Rookie 2, and Youth, if offered) who will advance directly to Las Vegas.
Currently, the Equita Lyon Western Horse Show in France serves as the European qualifying event. Additional qualifying events are expected to be announced in other continents, with the same five-per-division, per-continent maximum applying. If multiple qualifiers are held on one continent, it will be the responsibility of the event organizers and regional representatives to select a Semi-Finals to narrow the field to the five spots that are allocated.
“When we added the Semi-Finals, the goal was to protect the level of competition in Las Vegas and to make qualifying for TRFAM an accomplishment in itself,” explained Cheryl Cody, TRFAM Show Manager. “We also recognize the reality of travel, especially for those outside North America. That’s why this international system was created. It keeps the standards high, while also allowing more riders to participate without the barrier of multiple overseas trips.”
The amended process applies only to competitors outside North America. All North American riders – including those from the United States, Canada, and Mexico – will continue to qualify through the two-step format announced in August, which includes advancing through designated TRFAM Semi-Final Qualifiers and the 2026 NRHA Derby Semi-Finals.
Photos and story courtesy of WorldWide Slide.
