Jordan Larson (Whitesboro, Texas, $2,044,508 NRHA LTE) quickly took the lead in the NRHA Level 4 Open Derby first section of the first go-round with a smoldering 224.5 aboard Steppin On Sparks (Jacs Electric Spark x Mahoganys First Step). Steppin On Sparks is a 2009 stallion with $83,553 NRHA LTE, is owned by HDC Quarter Horses and was nominated by Cinder Lakes Ranch.

The 2015 Northwest Paint Horse Championship returns August 13–16, taking place in conjunction with the Zone 1​ Show in Albany, Oregon. Part of APHA’s pilot Paint Horse Championship program last year, the Northwest Paint Horse Championship was a hit.

On Sunday at the The Little Buckeye, competitors will receive the Fold and Go Barn. On Friday at the Buckeye Classic, they will receive the Giant Plush Zebra. Finally, on Sunday at the Buckeye Classic, exhibitors will receive the Stamp Set and Water Wow.

Seventeen-year-old Genevieve Shifrin (Basalt, Colo., $51,857 NRHA LTE) has taken the lead in the NRHA Level 4 Non Pro Derby second section of the first go-round of the derby as well as Level 3 and Youth with a smoldering 218 aboard Bella Juice (Smart Like Juice x Bella Conquistador). Shifrin and Bella Juice have made for a tough pair to beat as they won the NRHA Youth Non-Pro Derby 2014. Bella Juice is a 2009 mare with $27,154 NRHA LTE and is owned and nominated by Cache Performance Horses LLC.