NATIONAL Cutting Horse Association officials believe their annual NCHA Futu­rity could expand even further next year.

Earlier this year the annual futurity expanded to 11 days and proved a major success, turning over some $2.5million and generating an estimated S1.2million for Tamworth's economy.

"We were nine days in 2008, expanded to 11 this year and have an opportunity to expand even further to 12 days or more after the popularity this year," NCHA events manager Glenn Morgan said.

He and NCHA marketing and sponsorship manager Nicky Smith were at Wood-ley's Motors this week taking charge of a new Hyundai Tucson from the local car dealer.

Smith said the NCHA was "absolutely delighted" to have Woodley's Motors on board for a second 12-month term.

"We have built a very strong partner­ship over the last 12 months, with both parties reaping the benefits of the relation­ship," she said.

Morgan said it was particularly good to have a local firm on board as a major sponsor.

This year's NCHA Futurity also secured television coverage of the futurity final for the first time, as well as live coverage on the web.

"We had over 19,000 different views on the web ranging all over the globe in coun­tries such as France and Brazil," Morgan said.

The 2010 NCHA Futurity will be held from May 27 to June 6 at this stage, with the ability to add to that time frame.

"The interest and support in cutting continues to grow," Smith said.

"We are so pleased Woodley's Motors and other valued partners (of which there are 54) will again be able to share in the excitement and revenue the NCHA Futu­rity brings to Tamworth every year."