Flarida’s quest to become NRHA’s first Six Million Dollar Rider became reality during the Lucas Oil Level 4 Open Futurity Finals. With two horses in the competition, his chances of crossing this historic milestone were high. Flarida’s first run on Garry Ray Smith’s Missin My Tinsel (Hollywoodstinseltown x Dont Miss This) scored a 220, earning him 9th place and $22,287.89. George and Carol Bell’s Mr. Masota Star (Wimpys Little Step x Cee Another Masota) was Flarida’s second ride. A score of 222 ½ fell in 3rd place and earned $73,554.10—pushing his earnings just over $6 million.

Dates are confirmed for June 28 – July 8, 2018, at the extraordinary South Point Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, Nevada. For 2018, an estimated $10,000 will be paid to the winners of the championship classes in addition to the gold, silver and bronze trophies.

With much soul searching, fact-finding, discussion and debate AQHA Region 8 Steering Committee has made the difficult decision, with the input of their respective associations, to discontinue hosting the AQHA Region 8 Championship Horse Show.