Person · 2015
NRHA Hall of Fame · Inducted 2015
Terry Thompson
2x NRHA Derby Champion · Judge · Judging System Developer · Inducted 2015
Terry Thompson of Aubrey, Texas, earned his first NRHA paycheck in 1977 and spent four decades as one of the sport's most respected competitors, judges, and governance contributors. He was the 1982 and 1985 NRHA Derby Open Champion and a perennial Futurity and Derby finalist. As an NRHA judge and longtime board member, he was instrumental in developing the current NRHA judging system. He also helped promote reining to the Appaloosa Horse Club community, broadening the sport's reach.
Career Highlights
- 1982 and 1985 NRHA Derby Open Champion — first NRHA paycheck in 1977; perennial finalist at the Futurity, Derby, and major regional events for nearly four decades
- Instrumental in developing the current NRHA judging system — served on multiple NRHA committees and the board of directors; approved NRHA judge
- Appaloosa reining pioneer — actively promoted reining within the Appaloosa Horse Club, helping grow the sport beyond the Quarter Horse world
- Aubrey, Texas
Class of 2015