THE KENTUCKY INTERNATIONAL CSI5*
presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute
Everything you need to know about
The Kentucky International CSI5*
The Kentucky International CSI5* is a premier show jumping competition held each April as part of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event. Originally introduced in 2018 as the Kentucky CSI3* Invitational Grand Prix, it was elevated to CSI5* status in 2025—the highest level in international show jumping. Now running alongside the longstanding CCI5*-L and CCI4*-S, it creates an unparalleled weekend of top-level equestrian sport.
With this elevation, the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event became the only event in the world outside of a World Championship to host a CSI5*, CCI5*-L, and CCI4*-S in the same weekend—cementing its place as a true standout on the global equestrian calendar.
The CSI5* competition unfolds over multiple days, culminating in a
$340,000 Grand Prix on Saturday evening. With thrilling jump-offs, challenging courses, and a high-energy crowd, the show jumping action adds another dynamic layer to an already world-class event.
A 5-Star
Show Jumping Event
Spectator friendly and easy to understand, watch as show jumping tests a horse’s athleticism, agility and tractability while simultaneously testing a rider’s precision, accuracy and responsiveness.
Check here for
The Latest Results
Check here for the latest results and leaderboard positions during the competition.
The 2026 Champions
Trophy Winners
Winners of the 2026 Kentucky International CSI5* Grand Prix are:
- 1st Place Kent Farrington (USA) on Descartes Sr
- 2nd Place Mclain Ward (USA) on High Star Hero
- 3rd Place Shane Sweetnam (IRL) on James Kann Cruz
- 4th Place Laura Kraut (USA) on Una Mariposa
- 5th Place Natalie Dean (USA) on Acota M
- 6th Place Richard Vogel (GER) on Iron Dames Abou-Chaker NRW
- 7th Place Jessica Springsteen (USA) on Don Juan Van de Donkhoeve
- 8th Place Mckayla Langmeier (USA) on Riesling Van de Gaathoeve
- 9th Place Charlotte Murray (USA) on Magnum Z
- 10th Place Elena A. Haas (USA) on Claude
