BEST WEEKEND BLOG

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!

Boyd Martin is known around the world as one of eventing’s most accomplished riders. A fierce competitor with an impressive career spanning decades, Martin has made his mark on the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event with unforgettable performances and podium finishes. A four-time Olympian (2012, 2016, 2020, 2024) and a key member of multiple U.S. Eventing Teams, Martin has helped secure major victories on the world stage. In 2019, he led Team USA to gold at the Pan American Games. At the Kentucky Three-Day Event, Martin has delivered thrilling performances year after year, earning top finishes in the CCI5*-L and the CCI4*-S. In 2024, he clinched second place at the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S. His past success at the event also includes a second-place finish in 2019 with Tsetserleg, further solidifying his reputation as a K3DE powerhouse.  With an unmatched work ethic and an incredible string of horses, Boyd Martin remains one of the most exciting riders to watch. Stay tuned to see if Boyd and his team will make an appearance at the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event! Don’t miss your chance to see history in the making. Buy your tickets today!

Few names shine as brightly as Will Coleman when it comes to the elite of eventing. With a career filled with record-breaking moments and unforgettable performances, he has become a force to be reckoned with—and his appearances at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event never disappoint. In 2024, Coleman entered the Cosequin® Lexington CCI4-S* with two powerhouse horses: Off the Record and Diabolo. Having already made history in 2021 as the first American to win the CCIO4-S at CHIO Aachen*, Coleman and Off the Record were expected to put in a strong performance—especially after earning silver as part of the U.S. team at the 2022 FEI Eventing World Championship. But at the Cosequin® Lexington CCI4-S*, it was Diabolo who stole the show. Coleman and Diabolo secured a victory then claimed another major win at the Brooke USA CCI4-S*. Meanwhile, Off the Record continued to impress, finishing strong in 3rd place at the Cosequin® Lexington CCI4*-S. Now, all eyes are on Will Coleman as we wait to see if he’ll return to 2025 K3DE. Will he be back at the Kentucky Horse Park this April? If so, which of his incredible horses will he bring to the competition? Secure your tickets to the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event today!

Whether you're a lifelong equestrian enthusiast or someone looking for an unforgettable weekend, the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian is an absolute must on your 2025 calendar. Held in the heart of Kentucky's famed horse country, this annual event offers something for everyone—from thrilling world-class competition to family-friendly activities and a vibrant atmosphere. Here are 10 reasons why the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is a standout experience you won’t want to miss: 1. Witness World-Class Competition The Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is North America’s premier five-star eventing competition, attracting the best riders and horses from around the globe. Watch as equestrian athletes navigate the elegance of dressage, the adrenaline-pumping cross-country course, and the precision of showjumping. It’s a showcase of skill, partnership, and grit you won’t find anywhere else. 2. Meet the Top Equestrian Riders Ever dreamed of meeting your equestrian heroes? The Kentucky Three-Day Event is your chance! Get up close with Olympians and international champions as they compete for top honors. Many riders also participate in autograph sessions, so bring your event program or a keepsake for signing. 3. Enjoy a Beautiful Venue The event takes place at the stunning Kentucky Horse Park , a sprawling, picturesque venue that celebrates the state’s rich equestrian heritage. From rolling green fields to the iconic cross-country course, the park provides a breathtaking backdrop for this world-class competition. 4. Family Fun for All Ages This event isn’t just for equestrian fans—it’s for the whole family! With kid-friendly activities like Kentucky Kids Club and the Defender Junior Drive, even the youngest visitors will be entertained. Parents can relax knowing the event is designed with fun and safety in mind. Plus, kids 12 and under can receive free grounds admission with an adult ticket purchase. Don’t forget to bring the pup! Dogs are allowed to enter the grounds as well. 5. Indulge in Local Food and Beverage Foodies, rejoice! The Kentucky Three-Day Event boasts an incredible lineup of food and beverage vendors offering something for every palette. Stay tuned for this year's list of vendors! 6. Shop Unique Equestrian and Lifestyle Brands With over 160 vendors and artists from all over the world, the International Trade Fair is a shoppers paradise! Equestrian gear and apparel, custom jewelry, handmade leather items, supplements, sweet treats for you and your horse, the list goes on and on. You really will find something for everyone! 7. Immerse Yourself in Kentucky Culture Kentucky is synonymous with horses, bourbon, and hospitality, and this event offers all three in abundance. Take time to explore the surrounding Lexington area, known as the Horse Capital of the World, and discover its rich history, vibrant dining scene, and scenic beauty. 8. Experience the Thrill of Cross-Country Day If there’s one day not to miss, it’s Cross-Country Day. Watch as riders tackle one of the most challenging courses in the world, featuring massive obstacles and breathtaking gallops. The electric energy of the crowd cheering on competitors is a spectacle in itself. 9. Engage with Equestrian Experts From educational demonstrations to panel discussions, the event offers numerous opportunities to learn more about the sport and its stars. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or new to the scene, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the art and science of eventing. 10. Create Lifelong Memories The Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event isn’t just a competition—it’s an experience. Whether it’s your first time attending or an annual tradition, the sights, sounds, and camaraderie of this event will leave you with memories to cherish for years to come. Get Your Tickets Today! With so much to offer, it’s no surprise that the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is a bucket-list experience for equestrian fans and adventure seekers alike. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this iconic event in 2025. Tickets are available now, so reserve your spot and join us for an unforgettable weekend in Kentucky horse country!

When it comes to show jumping’s elite, Conor Swail has cemented his place among the best. Hailing from Ireland and currently ranked in the top 10 of the Longines Jumping Rankings, Swail’s 2024 victory at the Kentucky Invitational CSI4* presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute remains one of the most thrilling moments in recent equestrian history. A Night to Remember at Kentucky With a crowd of over 10,700 fans packed into Rolex Stadium, the atmosphere on the night of the 2024 Kentucky Invitational was electric. Thirty-eight horse-and-rider pairs tackled Guilherme Jorge’s first-round course, a challenging design with 13 numbered jumps and 16 jumping efforts that tested precision, speed, and partnership. As the competition narrowed, only six pairs advanced to the jump-off, where Swail and his talented 11-year-old Holsteiner gelding, Casturano, delivered a breathtaking performance. Cantering into the ring as the second-to-last pair, they delivered a flawless, double-clear round in a blistering 40.960 seconds, seizing the lead and claiming victory over an elite international field. Reflecting on his rising star Casturano, Swail said: "I've had him for around a year. The horse jumps clear after clear after clear, and the confidence you get from jumping a horse with so much ability and how much he's grown over the last year—it’s incredible. If he keeps doing what he's doing, I think he'll end up one of the best horses in the world. I'm so lucky to have him, and I'm looking forward to what's coming next with him." Of course, Swail’s four-legged partner wasn’t the only one there to celebrate—the ever-present Ralph, Swail’s loyal dog, added to the charm of the champion’s victory lap. 

If you’re new to show jumping or just curious about what makes the Kentucky International CSI5* so exciting, you’re in the right place.

Yasmin Ingham had a stellar performance with a third-place finish in 2024. In this Athlete Spotlight, we recap how it happened.

Tom McEwen took home silver at the 2024 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event. In this Athlete Spotlight, we're reliving the moment and seeing where Tom and Dubs have gone since.