Western Semi-Finals represent the final step for IHSA Western teams and individuals on their quest to compete at Nationals. The IHSA is proud to have the Nationals Reining Horse Association (NRHA) as the official sponsor of the Semi-Finals. Three Semi-Finals are held during the third weekend in March; host sites are contracted a year in advance. Regions are assigned to a respective Semi-Final based upon a number of factors, including participation in hosting a Semi-Final, placement in the prior year’s National Championships, and travel-distance concerns.
Photo by Counting Hoof Beats
Semi-Final assignments are announced prior to the start of the competition year. Regions will send their regional champion Western team, plus the top two individuals in each division. From each Semi-Finals, the top four individuals per division, the top five high point riders, and the top four teams will advance to Nationals.
Areas: 74, 70, 64, 51, 81, 84, 52
Areas: 30, 26, 40, 21, 22, 10, 50
Questions should be directed to your regional president or to Ariel Higgins subject line: Semi-Finals
Patterns used at IHSA Western Semi-Finals and Nationals will come from this list which is updated prior to Semi-Finals. Please report any problems with pattern instruction or graphics to the IHSA Western Committee.
Beginner Patterns Updated 2024
Level 2 and Open HMS Patterns Updated 2024
IHSA RR Scoresheet
Any AQHA Ranch Riding Patterns may be used 1-15