PLEASE 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 5* eventing competitions in the world — a can’t-miss stop on the international eventing calendar. Held annually on the last weekend in April in Lexington, Kentucky, this internationally acclaimed event brings together the top horse-and-rider pairs from across the globe. In addition to world-class competition, the weekend features exclusive shopping, unique attractions, and premium sponsor activations found only at this event.


The excitement doesn’t stop there — running concurrently are the Cosequin® Lexington CCI4* and the Kentucky International CSI5* presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, turning one weekend into a triple showcase of elite equestrian sport.


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


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The Latest

News & Updates

Vanessa Coleman Named Chief Competition and Operating Officer of Equestrian Events, Inc.

June 19, 2025
The Board of Directors of Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI), a non-profit, charitable organization that supports the development of equestrian sports by staging sporting events at the highest level, is thrilled to announce the naming of Vanessa Coleman to the position of Chief Competition and Operating Officer.

Meet the 2025 Champions of the Kentucky Three-Day Event

May 5, 2025
Each spring, the rolling hills of the Kentucky Horse Park come alive with world-class sport, vibrant crowds, and an undeniable electric energy. The 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™ delivered on every front, with fierce competition, unforgettable performances, and emotional victories. From eventing legends to Olympic athletes, this year’s champions delivered standout performances on one of the world’s most iconic eventing stages. Here’s a look back at the remarkable riders and horses, who topped the podium.

Inside Kentucky: The Kentucky Review Show

April 29, 2025
The first five-star of the year is done and dusted — and Michael Jung has officially made history. In this episode, Nicole Brown is joined by Diarmuid Byrne and Annie Bishop to break down all the big stories from the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event: Mickey’s record fifth Kentucky title, Boyd Martin’s epic weekend with three in the top seven, Harry Meade’s masterclass across the country, and a few warm and fuzzy moments that reminded us why we love this sport. From dressage dominance to that one early rail that gave us 15 seconds of jeopardy, they cover it all — plus, they take a look at the shifting US eventing landscape, future stars to watch, and why Kentucky just hits differently. Whether you were there soaking it in or following from home, this is your full wrap-up of an unforgettable weekend. Highlights : Michael Jung's historic fifth Kentucky win with fischerChipmunk FRH Boyd Martin's standout performance with three horses inside the top seven Harry Meade’s cross-country masterclass and a big weekend for Et Hop du Matz and Graffenacht Big moments for the US eventing team — and where the strength lies heading into a massive year Future stars to watch (including a few who might just steal the show in 2026 and beyond) Guests : Nicole Brown — Our host for the show, keeping the conversation moving with expert insights and all the key moments you need to know. Diarmuid Byrne — EquiRatings co-founder, bringing sharp analysis, big-picture context, and a look at what it all means for the world rankings. Annie Bishop — US eventing insider and producer, offering standout stories, and plenty of inside scoop from the heart of the action. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Catch up on all of our Inside Kentucky episodes wherever you get your podcasts.

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.

A woman is riding a brown horse on a dirt track.
A person is riding a horse through a puddle in front of a sign that says defender
A man is riding a horse over a jump in front of a crowd.

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.