Katy, Texas - April 18, 2003 - As at most major reining events, the beginning of finals weekend at the National Reining Breeders Classic creates a special excitement.

With record scores needed to qualify for the finals in the open, the elite list of qualifiers will gather this morning for the next step on the way to the NRBC title at the Bridle & Bit Open Draw Reception.

Sponsored by the popular Arizona equine publication, the reception, which begins at 10 am, lends a festive air to the public draw, where each finalist physically draws his slot for the Saturday evening finals. Finalists for the Saturday afternoon Limited and Intermediate division finals will draw as well.

All the activity takes place at the Great Southwest Equestrian Center in Katy, Texas.