The field for the 2026 World’s Greatest Horseman competition by the National Reined Cow Horse Association has narrowed down to 15 competitors, led by top riders Todd Crawford and Chris Dawson with composites of 887. The Finals are set for Saturday, Feb. 28.
About the World’s Greatest Horseman
Established in 1999, the NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman is the pinnacle of reined cow horse competition. The 2026 finalists are ready to compete for this prestigious title during the NRCHA Kalpowar Quarter Horses Celebration of Champions in Fort Worth.
Held at the Will Rogers Coliseum, this $300,000-added event tests horse and rider pairs through four challenging phases—herd work, reined work, steer stopping, and fence work—to determine the ultimate all-around performer.
This year’s Finals feature 15 talented horse-and-rider combinations, showcasing the depth and competitiveness of modern reined cow horse riding.
With each rider limited to one horse and using the same bridle for every phase, the pressure is on. There are no fresh mounts and no room for error on Finals night. This format demands horses that are sharp, honest, and physically prepared from start to finish. This is what makes the title so prestigious and why competition can be anyone’s game once it begins.
Proven Contenders
Corey Cushing | WR Iceman
Three-time champion Corey Cushing returns to the Finals riding WR Iceman, aiming for another victory.
Phillip Ralls | Son of a Mitch
Past champion Phillip Ralls competes on Son Of A Mitch in 2026, aiming for another title.
Todd Crawford | CRC 1942
Todd Crawford rides CRC 1942 in the Finals, sharing the horse with Landri Lisac throughout the Celebration of Champions.
The 2026 World’s Greatest Horseman Finals Field
(Unofficial)
2025 Champion: Erin Taormino
Erin Taormino made history in 2025 by winning the World’s Greatest Horseman title on Hazardouz Material with an impressive composite score of 884.5. Her performance set a high standard for this year’s Finals.
Read the full recap of her win here.