A Historic First in Equestrian Sport: 5* Eventing Meets 5* Show Jumping at the Kentucky Horse Park

January 30, 2025

The world of equestrian sports is gearing up for a groundbreaking event in April 2025, as the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5*-L presented by MARS Equestrian™ and the Kentucky International CSI5* presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute come together at the iconic Kentucky Horse Park. This marks the first time in history that two 5* competitions—representing the pinnacle of eventing and showjumping—will be held simultaneously at the same venue. With unparalleled levels of skill, elegance, and excitement, this dual event promises to be a spectacular celebration of equestrian excellence.


Let’s dive into what makes these 5* competitions so extraordinary, why their convergence is monumental, and what spectators can expect from this unprecedented equestrian showcase.

The Significance of 5* Equestrian Competitions

In equestrian sports, 5* competitions represent the highest level of difficulty, prestige, and achievement. These events are reserved for elite athletes who have honed their skills and demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication.

  • 5* Eventing (Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5*-L): Often referred to as an "equestrian triathlon," Eventing combines dressage, cross-country, and showjumping into a single competition to result in a single overall score. Riders and horses must excel across these three disciplines, showcasing precision, endurance, and courage.
  • 5* Showjumping (Kentucky International CSI5*): Showjumping focuses on agility, speed, and accuracy as horse-and-rider pairs navigate complex courses of towering fences. Courses at this level are designed to test the pair's scope and precision, featuring fences up to 1.60 meters (5'3") in height.

The co-location of these two prestigious competitions offers fans an unprecedented opportunity to witness the best of both events in one venue.

A Venue Steeped in Equestrian Heritage

The Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington is a fitting stage for this historic event. Renowned as a global hub for equestrian sports, the park boasts world-class facilities, including the Rolex Stadium, where  showjumping for both CCI5* and CSI5* will take place, as well as dressage will take place, and expansive cross-country courses designed to challenge even the most experienced eventers.

With its rich history of hosting premier equestrian events, the Kentucky Horse Park provides the perfect setting to showcase the best of 5* competitions. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the Bluegrass State, immerse themselves in the park’s equestrian museums and attractions, and experience the electric atmosphere of high-stakes competition.

Why This Moment Is Monumental

Bringing 5* eventing and 5* showjumping together at the same venue is a testament to the growth and global appeal of equestrian sports. Here’s why this convergence is so significant:

  1. Unifying the Equestrian Community: By hosting these two disciplines side by side, the event fosters a sense of unity and collaboration within the equestrian world. Fans of eventing and showjumping alike will have the chance to explore and appreciate both sports.
  2. Incredible Spectator Experience: From the thrilling cross-country phase of eventing to the nail-biting precision of showjumping, spectators can enjoy a diverse range of equestrian athleticism in one weekend.
  3. Boosting the Sport’s Profile: Combining these two 5* events at a single venue is guaranteed to draw global media attention, elevating the visibility of equestrian sports and inspiring future generations of riders.



Meet the Athletes and Designers

This year’s competitions will feature some of the biggest names in equestrian sports alongside meticulously designed courses that test their mettle.

  • Eventing Stars: Look out for defending champions and rising stars in the eventing world as they take on the challenging terrain of the Kentucky Horse Park. 
  • Showjumping Legends: The Kentucky International CSI5* will draw top show jumpers from around the world, all vying for the prestige and recognition that come with its newly awarded 5* status.
  • Course Designers: The 5* courses for both events are crafted by world-class designers, with Guilherme Jorge (Brazil) leading the way for the Kentucky International and Derek di Grazia (USA) for the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Cross-Country Course. Both are known for technical and visually stunning courses that promise to deliver exciting challenges for the most elite horse and rider duos to tackle.


What to Expect as a Spectator

Attending this dual event is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for equestrian fans. Here’s what you can look forward to:

  1. Thrilling Competition: Witness the world’s best horses and riders perform at the peak of their abilities, from powerful gallops across the cross-country course to perfectly timed jumps in the Rolex Stadium.
  2. Immersive Atmosphere: The Kentucky Horse Park buzzes with energy during these events, with thousands of fans cheering on their favorite athletes.
  3. Family-Friendly Fun: The event offers something for everyone, from exciting equestrian action to shopping, dining, and entertainment options throughout the park.


Plan Your Visit

To make the most of this historic event, plan your visit early. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Dates: April 24-27, 2025
  • Location: Kentucky Horse Park, Lexington, Kentucky
  • Tickets: Tickets are available now at kentuckythreedayevent.com.
  • Hospitality: Hospitality packages, including exclusive seating and catering options, are also available for those seeking a premium experience. Explore hospitality options here.

Looking Ahead to the K3DE & the Kentucky International

As the countdown to April 2025 begins, the excitement surrounding this dual 5* event continues to build. The Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5*-L and the Kentucky International CSI5* represent the pinnacle of equestrian sports, offering fans a rare chance to witness two world-class competitions in one venue.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic moment in equestrian history. Secure your tickets, mark your calendars, and prepare for an unforgettable weekend at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Whether you’re a lifelong equestrian enthusiast or new to the sport, the 2025 dual 5* event is set to be a spectacle unlike any other. From the beauty and athleticism of the horses to the skill and determination of the riders, this event promises to captivate and inspire. We can’t wait to see you there!

Athlete Spotlight: Mia Farley

March 13, 2025
Mia Farley is quickly making a name for herself in the eventing world, and the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event has played a key role in her journey. With grit, determination, and undeniable talent, she’s proven she has what it takes to compete among the best. Farley made her K3DE debut in 2023 aboard BGS Firecracker and showcased her skill in the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S. Back in 2024, Mia entered the Kentucky Horse Park with Phelps, where she impressed with a strong, double clear, CCI5*-L performance and a top-15 finish. Phelps, an 11-year-old Thoroughbred gelding, owned by Olympic gold medalist David O'Connor, was originally acquired for just $1 after a brief racing career. Phelps has defied expectations, progressing through the levels under Farley’s guidance. Farley describes Phelps as having "the biggest heart," attributing their achievements to his determination and their strong partnership. Her steady rise through the ranks hasn’t gone unnoticed. As a former USEF Eventing Emerging Athlete and NAJYRC bronze medalist, Mia has been developing her talent for years, earning respect and admiration along the way. With each competition, she continues to gain experience at the top levels of the sport, and her performances at K3DE have solidified her as one to watch. Will we see Mia Farley back at the Kentucky Horse Park in 2025? Stay tuned for athlete announcements as we get closer to The Best Weekend All Year! Don’t miss a moment—secure your tickets today!

Athlete Spotlight: Bruce & Buck Davidson

March 2, 2025
The father and son duo we all know and love, Bruce & Buck Davidson, are icons in the eventing world, bringing with them immense history and prestige. The two have left a lasting legacy on the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, inspiring generations of riders and elevating the sport to new heights. Bruce Davidson Sr. holds the prestigious record for the most wins at the K3DE, while Bruce (Buck) Davidson Jr. is a celebrated three-time USEF CCI5*L Eventing National Champion.  Bruce Davidson Sr. is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and a four-time world champion. Bruce became the first American rider to win an individual title at the 1974 World Championships and won a gold medal in the team event; he repeated his individual victory at the 1978 World Championships. He dominated the sport for decades and is a true eventing legend. With six victories, he holds the record for the most wins at the Kentucky Three-Day Event. His success at the K3DE has drawn top riders from across the world to Kentucky for The Best Weekend All Year in April. Following his father’s footsteps, Buck Davidson has built an incredible career of his own. Buck represented the U.S. at the 2010 and 2014 World Equestrian Games with Ballynoe Castle RM. Buck made his U.S. team debut at the 1999 Pan American Games, later winning team gold and individual bronze medals at the 2011 Pan American Games. For over two decades, Buck Davidson has been a fan favorite at the K3DE and always delivers a thrilling performance. With a family history of excellence and a deep connection to the Kentucky Three-Day Event, the Davidsons have played a major role in shaping the eventing world. We hope to see Buck again this year at the Kentucky Horse Park to continue the Davidson family legacy. Be there for yourself and watch history unfold at the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS™ Equestrian. Buy your tickets now for a front-row seat to all of the action!
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