Born and raised in Ohio, Craig Schmersal followed his passion for horses to become the 3rd all-time leading rider in the National Reining Horse Association.  Craig, a 5-million-dollar money earner, is the only Level 4 Open champion of all five major events: The Run for a Million, The NRHA Futurity, The NRHA Derby, The National Reining Breeders Classic, and The Quarter Horse Congress. Craig was a multiple-time gold and silver medalist for Team USA at the World Equestrian Games in 2002, 2006, and 2010. Craig was also named the 2019 Horseman of the Year.

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Not only is Craig known for his contributions within the arena, but outside of it as well. As an active member of the Judge’s Committee, Schmersal is committed to the industry and continually trying to better it for horses and riders alike. Craig teaches the NRHA Judges School to increase education for judges and riders, as well. Along with educating in this way, he’s also created training videos to help demonstrate techniques for finished horses and futurity prospects and even covers proper tack tips.

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Schmersal also promotes two stallions, NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Pale Face Dunnit (Gunner x Lena Dun It), and No Smoking Required (Gunner x Icing Required), who he showed for most of their careers, further demonstrating his commitment to each aspect of the reining industry, from breeding to showing, at the highest level.

 

Craig currently resides in Scottsdale, AZ with his wife, Ginger, and their 4 kids, Chris, Nick, Brendyn, and Addisyn.