Cow Horse Turns It Up A Notch

For five days in March, Geurie became the heart of cow horse as competitors from across the country converged for the NRCHAA Equifund National Finals, Futurity and Derby, the premier event on the National Reined Cow Horse Association Australia calendar. The championship brought together the sport’s leading professionals, non-pros, breeders, owners and emerging talent, showcasing not only the highest level of competition but also the strength and direction of the industry itself.

More than a national championship, Geurie offered a snapshot of where Australian cow horse stands today. Across the Futurity, Derby and Cow Horse divisions, spectators witnessed a blend of seasoned experience and rising talent, with every class carrying its own story and every run contributing to an increasingly competitive standard.

While championship events are ultimately remembered for their winners, Geurie was equally defined by the moments that unfolded along the way.

The Open Cow Horse and Open Non Pro Cow Horse classes delivered some of the most exciting competition of the week. Run after run, the standard continued to climb as competitors pushed each other to new heights. Quality performances were backed up by equally impressive runs, creating an atmosphere where no lead felt secure and every score mattered. It was the sort of competition that kept riders studying the scoreboard and spectators glued to the arena fence, knowing the next run could change everything.

One of the most talked-about moments of the event came courtesy of Daniel Gorman and FNI Lunar Eclipse. Midway through his fence work, Gorman’s Romal reins broke, a situation that could easily have derailed an otherwise polished performance. Instead, horse and rider carried on seemingly unfazed. Many onlookers did not immediately realise that one side of the rein was no longer attached as Gorman completed his circles to finalise the run. It was an impressive display of composure, horsemanship and trust between horse and rider, and one of those rare moments that reminded everyone why cow horse remains such a respected test of practical horsemanship.

While experienced competitors were showcasing their skills under pressure, the future of Australian cow horse was making its own statement.

Junior rider Ellie McNaughton captured the Non Pro Futurity aboard Scoobie, producing one of the standout achievements of the week. In a division often contested by riders with significantly more years of competition experience, Ellie McNaughton’s victory was a powerful reminder that talent, dedication and good horsemanship continue to create opportunities regardless of age.

The Derby divisions produced some of the week’s most memorable storylines. Husband and wife team Mitch and Steph Dunnachie shared the winner’s spotlight, with Mitch securing the Open Derby title while Steph claimed victory in the Limited Derby. Their dual success reflected the family centred nature of the cow horse community. Behind every successful run lies countless hours of preparation, training, travel and support, making their shared achievement all the more rewarding.

The Derby also shone a spotlight on the quality of mares being produced and campaigned within cow horse programs. Thanks to the support of Solo Select and Healey Quarter Horses, Megan Hensley was awarded a service fee to Hesa Dual Bet for recording the highest aggregate score on a mare throughout the Derby. Riding the outstanding Ourimbah Treasure, Hensley earned the honour against strong competition, recognising not only her performance in the arena but also the value of quality mares within breeding and performance programs. It was a fitting acknowledgement of a mare whose consistency and ability stood out throughout the event.

Beyond the competition arena, Geurie once again demonstrated one of the greatest strengths of Australian cow horse: its community.
National events provide the opportunity for competitors to test themselves against the country’s best, but they also create an environment where knowledge is exchanged, friendships are strengthened and newcomers can learn from experienced horsemen and horsewomen. Around the warm up pen and campgrounds, conversations flowed freely as competitors discussed horses, cattle, training and the season ahead. While championships are won in the arena, much of the value of events like this occurs outside it.

Perhaps the most significant takeaway from the 2026 NRCHAA Equifund National Finals, Futurity and Derby was the depth of talent emerging across every level of the sport. Success came from established professionals, dedicated non-pros, talented juniors and family run programs alike. The diversity of stories reflected a discipline that continues to build momentum while remaining true to its foundations of horsemanship, work ethic and community.

As the final presentations concluded and floats turned towards home, another national championship was added to the history books. Yet the legacy of Geurie will extend beyond trophies and titles. It will be remembered for a junior rider and a Futurity win, a calm response to a broken rein, a husband-and-wife Derby double, an outstanding mare earning special recognition, and a week of competition that consistently raised the bar.

Most importantly, it reinforced a simple fact: Australian cow horse continues to grow, and its future looks exceptionally bright.