Revolutionizing Reining: Etalon Equine Genetics Sponsors the NRHA Sire & Dam Program

Menlo Park, CA - Etalon Equine Genetics, a trailblazer in decoding horse DNA for improved horse health, proudly announces its strategic sponsorship of the National Reining Horse Association’s (NRHA) Sire & Dam Program. The NRHA is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting reining horses worldwide.

This dynamic collaboration marks the convergence of two industry titans with a shared mission to reshape equine health, elevate performance standards, and uphold the timeless traditions of western horsemanship through innovation and education.

Etalon Equine Genetics, renowned for its pioneering efforts in animal genetic research, has assembled a formidable team of leading scientists, geneticists, biologists, and tech experts from the heart of Silicon Valley and renowned universities worldwide. Their mission is to equalize access to cutting-edge genetic diagnostics, making them user-friendly and affordable for horse enthusiasts at all levels.

"We're embarking on an exciting journey with the National Reining Horse Association," says Christa Lafayette, CEO of Etalon Equine Genetics. "By merging our genetic expertise with NRHA's unwavering commitment to the reining horse, we're empowering horse owners, trainers, and breeders with invaluable insights to unlock the full potential of equine health and performance."

Etalon’s newest Performance Package is just one of the services included in this sponsorship that offers NRHA members a leg up in maximizing their horses’ potential in the show pen. This genetic testing package provides applicable knowledge about a horse’s inherent strengths and weaknesses related to speed, gait, and temperament. Armed with this knowledge, reining horse breeders, owners, and riders can tailor their breeding decisions and training programs to capitalize on each horse’s natural talents, resulting in improved performance and competitive success.

Founded in 1966, the NRHA and their world-class Sire & Dam Program have long been an industry pillar of excellence, fostering the reining horse's prominence in a family-centric atmosphere while upholding the highest standards of western horsemanship. With its 2024 strategic plan focused on education, growth, and innovation, the NRHA is poised to lead the equestrian world into a new era.

"Etalon has a long history of innovations in the genetics space. We're happy to have a relationship with a sponsor who appreciates our shared interest in innovation and scientific discovery," says Billy Smith, NRHA Commissioner.

In a move aimed at empowering NRHA members, Etalon Equine Genetics will collaborate closely with the association to provide educational resources on equine genetics offering member discounts for genetic testing packages with white glove service included. This synergy between innovation and tradition aligns seamlessly with the NRHA's vision of becoming the preeminent leader in equestrian sports.

"We believe in the ‘horse family’ approach for which the NRHA is known and aspire to work with riders of all ages setting them up for success now and for years to come," enthused Lafayette. “This is a truly unique combination of tech, science, and horsepower; something our kids will understand and leverage far beyond what we can imagine. Together, we'll harness the power of genetics to preserve the rich legacy of the reining horse while propelling it into a future defined by welfare, performance, and unparalleled excellence in horsemanship.”

Etalon Equine Genetics’ sponsorship of the National Reining Horse Association’s Sire & Dam program signals a bold leap forward in the quest for equine excellence, uniting innovation, tradition, and passion in pursuit of a shared vision.

For more information on Etalon Equine Genetics and the NRHA, please visit www.etalondx.com and www.nrha.com.