OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (Friday, January 25, 2002) – During its January session, the National Reining Horse Association Executive Board made the decision to expand the NRHA Derby from a four-day event to six days.

Originally scheduled for May 15-18, the 2002 Derby will begin on May 14 and run through May 19. According to NRHA Director of Operations and Events Management Chris Potter, the Derby had simply grown past the boundaries of the old time frame. "With the growth of the event and the increased amount of entries, it became evident that we needed to do something in order to maintain a workable schedule for exhibitors and fans."

Besides a full slate of ancillary classes and the headline 4 and 5-year-old competition, the Derby hosts the United States Equestrian Team Reining Championship Semi Finals. On Saturday, May 18, the Derby Spotlight Sale takes place, as well.

Also, beginning with the 2002 event, the Collegiate Reining National Championships will be held during the NRHA Derby.

A full western trade show is another highlight for Derby attendees, as is the Annual NRHA World Championship Awards Banquet.