From days long ago when cowboys would casually compete with each other to determine whose horse was a better, more willing partner, the sport of Reining has exploded into a multi-million dollar industry world-wide. Reining is the only western discipline to be recognized by the IFE and it was a featured event in the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Kentucky. If you have not seen a Reining Horse run his pattern, you are missing out! Around the world, the premier Reining events are drawing larger and larger crowds. This is partly due to the excitement that Reining provides for the participant and spectator alike.

Reining is a judged event requiring competitors to complete one of 12 approved patterns in an arena. These precise patterns include small slow circles, large fast circles, flying lead changes, roll backs, 360 degree spins done in place, and “the hallmark” of the reining horse, the exciting sliding stops. Often called the "Dressage" of Western events, Reining is the ultimate blend of horse and rider, combining speed and maneuverability through this series of intricate patterns. Reining requires the horse to be responsive and completely in tune with its rider. Cues and commands should not be easily visible. The reining pattern is judged based on how willfully guided the horse responds and its ability to perform the required movements.