JOIN US FOR THE 2026

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event

APRIL 23-26, 2026

About

The Best Weekend All Year

The Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event stands among the most prestigious CCI5* eventing competitions in the world. Held annually on the last weekend in April, this internationally-acclaimed event brings together the top horse-and-rider pairs from across the globe. The competition features a powerhouse lineup of competitions: the CCI5*, the Cosequin® Lexington CCI4*-S, and the Kentucky International CSI5*—representing the highest levels in eventing and show jumping.


In 2025, the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event became the only event in the world, outside of a world championship, to host a CCI5*, CCI4*-S, and CSI5* during the same weekend.  This unique combination delivers an unmatched experience for competitors and spectators alike and firmly cements the event as a standout on the international equestrian calendar.


In addition to world-class competition, the weekend features exclusive shopping, unique attractions, and premium sponsor activations found only at this event.


The 2026 Event Dates are April 23 - 26, 2026. We'll see you there!

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The Latest

News & Updates

October 2, 2025
For Alabama native Jim Graham, eventing has been more than a sport — it’s been a lifelong journey shaped by resilience, opportunity, and a deep love for the horse. With over five decades in the saddle, Jim has worn nearly every hat: international competitor, trainer, FEI judge, mentor, and Technical Delegate. These diverse experiences have shaped him into one of eventing’s most respected voices, blending competitive success with an unwavering commitment to horsemanship.
September 18, 2025
Mary Fike’s name is synonymous with the soul of American eventing. Her fingerprints are found not just on score sheets and start boxes, but on the very fabric of the sport — especially where it matters most: the grassroots. With decades of experience spanning competitor, coach, secretary, organizer, and mentor, Mary has dedicated her life to building a sport that is inclusive, educational, and rooted in true horsemanship.
August 15, 2025
The newest addition to the 2025/2026 Major League Show Jumping event calendar is the Kentucky International CSI5*, hosted at the 2026 Kentucky Three-Day Event.

The Disciplines

An Equestrian Triathlon

The Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is one of the most prestigious equestrian events in the world. It combines dressage, cross-country, and show jumping phases, and the winner of the three-day event is the pair with the lowest combined score.

The Competition is Heating Up

See the 2025 Standings & Latest Results

Results of the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5*-L, the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S, and The Kentucky International CSI5* will be posted as soon as possible concluding each event.

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A couple of phones sitting next to each other on a white background.

download the cross-country app

Explore the Cross-Country Courses

If Cross-Country day is your favorite, you need the Cross Country App! From the app you can explore the 2025 Cross-Country course with photos and video guides. Plus, spectators can find their location on the interactive course and turn on the Venue Guide to see food, arenas, big screens, restrooms and more.

Download the App View the 2025 Courses

Premium Experiences

Clubs & Hospitality

Reserve your spot in one of our four private clubs with spectacular views, food and beverage service, and other benefits that can make your experience more relaxed, comfortable, and memorable. 

Explore Hospitality

Stay Connected

Stay connected to what’s happening at the Kentucky Three-Day Event by following us on social media. If you would like more information or to be added to our email list, click here.

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