Inside Kentucky: Entry Reaction Show
April 3, 2024
Dive into the heart of the competition with entries out for both the Defender Kentucky Five-Star and the Cosequin Kentucky Four-Star Short.
With Paris on the horizon, both classes are packed with top contenders aiming for glory. Discover the strategies and hopes of World Champions and emerging talents alike, as we break down the key battles.
Mia Farley is quickly making a name for herself in the top levels of eventing, and the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS™ Equestrian 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 performance in her second CCI5*-L 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 over a decade of involvement in the USEF Eventing Development programs, she made a statement in 2019 by securing top-15 finishes in eight of the twelve FEI competitions she entered. 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!
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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