News

A letter from Kevin Babington

Details: November 21, 2025; By Staff Writers

Dear Friends,

As another winter season begins here in Wellington, I find myself reflecting—as I always do this time of year—on the extraordinary partnership that makes our sport unlike any other.

Kevin Babington rehabilitatingHorse and rider stepping into a new season together… hope in every stride, opportunity around every corner, and the privilege of doing what we love.

I want to take a moment to wish each of you the very best in the months ahead.

May your horses stay sound, your rides be rewarding, and your goals—whatever they may be—come within reach.

Our sport continues to grow, innovate, and inspire because of the passion and dedication of riders like you.

But I also want to speak to something even more important than winning a ribbon or finishing a round—and that is your safety.

As many of you know, my own journey took a turn that none of us ever expect.

And while I’ve faced my share of challenges, I have also witnessed firsthand the strength of this community, the kindness of strangers, and the power of preparation.

That is why the mission of the Kevin Babington Foundation, and our emphasis on safety, means so much to me.

Safety isn’t just about protecting yourself. It’s about protecting everything and everyone who depends on you—your family, your barn, your clients, your horses, and your future.

Dr. William L. Elkins of Buck Run Farm died Nov. 11

Details: November 18, 2025; By Staff Writers

COATESVILLE, Pa.--William L. Elkins, 93, of Coatesville, pioneering research immunologist at what is now the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, associate professor emeritus of pathology and laboratory medicine, innovative longtime Angus cattle rancher in Chester County, avid sailor, and veteran, died Tuesday, Nov. 11, of complications from pneumonia at Chester County Hospital.

Dr. Elkins Dr.William ElkinsThe great-great-grandson of Philadelphia business tycoon William Lukens Elkins, Dr. Elkins fashioned his own distinguished career as a scientist, medical researcher, and professor at Penn from 1965 to 1985, and owner of the Buck Run Farm cattle ranch in Coatesville for the last 39 years.

At Penn, Dr. Elkins conducted pioneering research on how the human immune system fights infection and disease.

He collaborated with colleagues in Philadelphia and elsewhere around the country to provide critical new research regarding bone marrow transplants and pediatric oncology.

His work contributed to new and more effective medical procedures at Penn, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and elsewhere, and he instructed students and residents at Penn.

But his lifelong love of the fields and rolling hills he roamed as a boy in Chester County never faded, he told Greet Brandywine Valley magazine in 2023.
“Farming is in my blood,” he said. “So even when I went to medical school and all that, the enthusiasm never left, and I wanted to go back to it.”

The Photo Contest is now open

Details: November 16, 2025; By Staff Writers

Entries are now being accepted for The Horse of Delaware Valley's 30th Annual Photo Contest

action 1st place of Doberman and dog running taken by Donnan Jones o Unionville, Pa.The deadline is Dec. 30. 2027.

The categories are Action, Candid and Pet/Animal photos.

Photos are judged on clarity and sharpness of the subject as well as originality.

Photos showing only the backs of people and/or animals drop to the bottom of the pile of entries.

The three top winners in each category will receive a certificate suitable for framing.

Winners will be announced in January, 2024.

Winning photos and Honorable Mention photos will be published in January of Action photos, in February of Candid photos, and in March of Pet/Animal photos.

All entries must be of subjects from the 14 state area served by The Horse, Pennsylvania; New Jersey, New York, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Ohio, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Kentucky, Georgia and Connecticut, but the photos do not have to be taken in those states.

All photos must be taken in 2025.

ACTION photos should be of a competition; CANDID photos should be of a person or persons in a horse setting, such as a show, farm, trail riding or event; and PET/ANIMAL photos can be of any animal, domesticated or otherwise. For example, a fox in the wild qualifies as a pet photo.

E-mail photos to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Each entry MUST include the full identity and hometown of the subject or subjects with a brief description of the action the photo captures, plus the name, mailing address, e-mail address and TELEPHONE NUMBER of the photographer.

Entries that are clearly doctored to achieve some artistic effect will be disqualified.

"Run for Kevin" on Dec. 13

Details: November 11, 2025; By Staff Writers

PALM BEACH,, Fla.--The Kevin Babington Foundation (KBF) is calling all runners, riders, and changemakers to join the “Run for Kevin” 5K & 10K during the Palm Beaches Marathon Weekend, taking place Saturday, Dec. 13 along the stunning, palm-lined waterfront of West Palm Beach, Fla.

Kevin Babington w. Samantha 2 Kevin Babington with Samantha This unique event merges fitness, philanthropy, and community — giving participants the chance to run/walk for something far greater than the finish line.

Each entry purchased through KBFEvents.com directly supports the Foundation’s mission to empower equestrian athletes, inspire leadership through sport, and carry forward the legacy of perseverance and passion that defines Kevin Babington.

“The Run for Kevin is a celebration of spirit — the kind of unwavering drive that Kevin represents,” said Jeff Papows, Chairman of the Kevin Babington Foundation. “Every step taken on that course is a statement of solidarity, hope, and heart. We’re not just running a race — we’re continuing a movement.”

Runners can choose between two race distances — the 5K or the 10K — both held Saturday morning and designed for maximum fun, camaraderie, and purpose.

Participants will receive an official race entry, an exclusive KBF Hat and T-Shirt, and the opportunity to make a direct impact through donation tiers ranging from Standard to Rockstar.

If you are interested in doing the additional races hosted by the Palm Beach Marathon visit their website here: Palm Beach Marathon

“Kevin’s courage is a daily reminder that resilience is contagious,” said longtime supporter and friend Alan Griffin. “When you join this race, you’re not just running for Kevin — you’re running for everyone who needs to know that they’re not alone in their fight.”

Dee Curran and Steve Hayes died

Details: November 7, 2025; By Staff Writers

CHESTER COUNTY, Pa.--Two of Chester County's most respected horsemen died recently.

Dolores Dee CurranDolores "Dee" Curran, who worked with numerous NSA trainers clipping, shipping, and leading horses to post, passed away on Sept. 30 at age 55.

Dee, who lived in Highland Township, Pa., was from Ireland, and was recalled fondly by Hall of Fame conditioner Janet Elliot.

She was an extremely hard worker, who "did it all," Elliot said, including caring for dogs, horses, and starting her own blanket business.

Dee was one of racing's unsung heroes and was a runner-up for the Woodville Award, a tribute Elliot created to honor those critical assistants who contribute mightily to the sport.

All are welcome to celebrated Curran's life on Saturday, Nov. 8, from 3 pm onward at 101 Fernwood Rd., Coatesville, PA 19320

Stevie Hayes died about a month ago.

U.S. leads the list of World Ranking of countries

Details: November 7, 2025; By Staff Writers

The U.S. leads the list of nations that have qualified for the third edition of the League of Nations, with the top 10 ranked nations set to compete in the world’s oldest and most prestigious equestrian team Jumping competition.

Kent Farrington on Greya Sarah Miller for MacMillan World number one rider Kent Farrington on Greya (photo by Sarah Miller for MacMillan)Nine nations have qualified again for the 2026 edition: USA, Belgium, Ireland, Germany, France, Netherlands, Italy, Switzerland and reigning champions Great Britain, who already secured their place by winning a dramatic jump-off at the League of Nations Final 2025 in Barcelona.

The big news for the 2026 edition is the return of Brazil to the Series, after participating in the inaugural edition in 2024.

Brazil claimed the final spot after securing 10th place in the Longines League of Nations Ranking and replaces Sweden, who finished out of the top 10.

The Longines League of Nations in 2026 will feature four qualifying legs in Abu Dhabi, UAE, Ocala, Fla., Rotterdam, Netherlands and St. Tropez - Gassin, France.

Only the top eight ranked teams will advance to the League of Nations Final, which will be again held in Barcelona.

League of Nations Ranking Top 10

USA – 14,868 points

Belgium – 14,326 points

Ireland – 13,953 points

Germany – 13,708 points

France – 13,703 points

Great Britain – 13,386 points

Netherlands – 11,944 points

Italy – 10,599 points

Switzerland – 10,283 points

Brazil – 9,218 points

Keith O'Brien is the new assistant racing secretary at National Steeplechase Association

Details: November 1, 2025; By Staff Writers

FAIR HILL, Md.--Keith O'Brien, 57, who has deep roots in the sport, will be the assistant racing secretary for the National Steeplechase Association, working alongside longtime director or racing and racing secretary Bill Gallo.

Keith OBrien Keith O'BrienO’Brien, who followed in the footsteps of his famous father, Leo O'Brien, as a jump jockey on the circuit from 1991 to 1996, joined the NSA Race Office part time Oct. 13, and will begin full-time in early November.

O’Brien, who grew up in racing and most recently served as a regional manager for the Jockey’s Guild in New York, will relocate from his Long Island, N.Y. home to Fair Hill, Md., the NSA’s headquarters.

In his capacity with The Guild, O’Brien was a liaison between riders, racetrack management, and horsemen, facilitating communication among the various groups; he was also responsible for ensuring that best safety practices were followed.

Prior to that position, O’Brien was a horse trainer, working with his father, Leo, from 1997 to 2022, when the elder O’Brien retired.

A native County Kildare, Ireland, Leo O’Brien, built a successful career as one of New York’s leading conditioners since coming stateside, initially as a jump jockey, in 1964.

U.S. team for Frontera, Spain 3* Nations Cup

Details: October 10, 2025; By Staff Writers

LEXINGTON, Ky.--US Equestrian announced the riders selected to represent the U.S. Jumping Team at the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Vejer de la Frontera CSIO3*.

Spain NC team The competition will take place as part of Circuito Hípico del Sol in Vejer de la Frontera, Spain, from Oct. 22-26.

The team will be led by Chef d’Equipe Anne Kursinski and Team Leader Erin Keating.

The following ridrs have been selected to represent the U.S. Jumping Team and are listed in alphabetical order:

• Emily Dehoff (Wellington, Fla.)
• Carlee McCutcheon (Aubrey, Texas)
• Alexa Pessoa (Wellington, Fla.)
• Paris Sellon (Los Angeles, Calif.)

Competition Information

The competition week will begin on Thursday, Oct. 23, and the highlight FEI Jumping Nations Cup Andalucía October Tour CSIO3* is taking place on Friday, Oct. 24.

The Grand Prix CSIO3* will close out competition on Sunday, Oct. 26.

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Teddy Davis to ride Gentleman De Reve in Pardubicka, the most challenging horse race

Details: October 8, 2025; By SARA CAVANAGH

MONKTON, Md.--Teddy Davies will ride Gentleman De Reve (Fr) in the 135th running of the Velke Pardubicka in Czechoslovakia this Sunday, Oct. 12.

Gentleman De ReveThe Velke Pardubicka is renowned as the most challenging horse race in the world, and is held in the village of Pardubicka, about one hour from Praque.

It's contested over 4 1/4 miles, with 31 jumps that include seven foot high hedges, post and rails, in-and-outs and other difficult fences and is run over a variety of terrain.

The Paedubicka will be live streamed at 9:30 a.m., Eastern, on Sunday, and can be seen on www.ceskatelevize.cz/porady/15684870658-velka-pardubicka/225471291200201/1

Davies rode in the race last year on Jeremy Pass, when he was the first American to ever ride in the race.

Davies completed most of the most difficult parts of the race, but he had to pull up three fences from home when Jeremy Pass tired.

Jeremy Pass. owned by Joy Slater and Dixon and Lisa Stroud, had missed a critical prep race two weeks earlier, and wasn't quite ready for the full 4 1/4 miles.

Mary Alice Malone, Campbell Soup heiress and founder of Iron Spring Farm, died in June

Details: October 2, 2025; By Staff Writers

Mary Alice D. Malone. 75, a trailblazer in American sport horse breeding and a lifelong equestrian, passed away peacefully at home on June 16, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Maru Alice Malone 1 Mary Alice Malone Born on Feb. 3, 1950, Mary Alice Dorrance Malone was a quiet Campbell’s soup heiress who bred Olympic-grade equestrian stallions in Chester County.

Campbell’s shareholders first elected Ms. Malone to the company’s board in 1990, the firm said in a statement.

At the time of her death, Ms. Malone was Campbell’s longest-tenured board member and its largest individual shareholder at 18%.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mary Alice,” Campbell’s board chairman Keith R. McLoughlin said. “As a descendant of the company’s founder and a significant long-term shareholder, her contributions to grow and protect Campbell’s legacy were immeasurable. She will be missed in our board meetings and as a friend and colleague. On behalf of my fellow board members, we extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends.”

Born on February 3, 1950, Mary Alice's passion for horses began in her childhood. As a young rider, she participated in the Bridlewild Pony Club in Gladwyne, Pa., where her deep bond with horses took root and grew into a lifetime of dedication, innovation, and excellence in the equestrian world.

In recognition of her extraordinary influence, Mary Alice was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the KWPN-NA in 2025, a fitting tribute to the lasting impact she made on the sport horse community.

The Devon Fall Classic was a huge success, with more exhibitors and spectators than ever

Details: October 2, 2025; By Staff Writers

DEVON, Pa.--The Devon Fall Classic drew more exhibitors and bigger crowds of spectators than ever, and Devon fans and local riders will be excited to hear that next year it will be bigger and better than ever.

Elizabeth Traband on Eddie Blue winning the Devon Fall Classic Grand Prix "It was a huge success," said Wayne W.Grafton, Chairman and CEO of the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair. "We saw a 35 percent increase in entries along with an approximately 35 percent increase in income. We were thrilled that the equestrian community enjoyed the enhanced competition, and we're discussing expanding the Fall Classic in 2026."

The three 1.40m jumper classes drew up to 37 competitors, and they were won by three different riders.

One of Devon spectators favorite riders, Laura Chapot on Ginola won the $5,000 Welcome Stake over a field of 34 with a clean jump-off round in 31.200, a full second faster than second placed Morgan Ward-Knowlton on GF Diego.

Stella Stiinnett on Storiall Blue won the $10,000 Speed Stake with a clean round in 64.685 over a field of 17, with Collin Reynolds on Ideal HX second, less than a half second slower.

U.S. Jumping Team for Longines League of Nations Final CSIO5*

Details: September 27, 2025; By Staff Writers

LEXINGTON, Ky.--US Equestrian announced the riders selected to represent the U.S. Jumping Team at the Longines League of Nations Final CSIO5* hosted in Barcelona, Spain, from October 3-5, at Real Club de Polo de Barcelona.

Barcelona team The team will be led by Chef d’Equipe Robert Ridland and Team Leader Lizzy Chesson.

The following riders have been selected to represent the U.S. Jumping Team and are listed in alphabetical order:

Karl Cook of Rancho Santa Fe, Calif.

Laura Kraut of (Royal Palm Beach, Fla.

Alex Matz of Coatesville, Pa.

Callie Schott of Wellington, Fla.

Alessandra Volpof Woodside, Calif.

Competition Information

The Longines League of Nations Final will begin on Thursday, Oct. 2, with the Longines Grand Prix of the City of Barcelona CSIO5* hosted under the lights on Friday, Oct. 3, starting at 8:00 p.m.,whch is 2 p.m. Eastern.

The highlight of the week, the Longines League of Nations Final team competition will start at 12:00 p.m., which is 6a.m. Eatern, on Sunday, Oct. 5, to conclude the 2025 LLN season.

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Kevin Babington's post on Facebook

Details: September 26, 2025; By Staff Writers

Kevin Babington's post on Facebook

Kevin Babington rehabilitatingIt’s been six years since I hit the ground.

I have made the best of it.

I have tried to set an example of getting on with it and to contribute in some way.

To the industry, to my daughters and Dianna, and to our customers.

I have much to offer still.

I am proud that my accident has helped others and hopeful it will continue to past my lifespan.

When I fell the hardest part was coming to a full stop.

People who know me know I was moving 100 mph.

We all were.

Di was teaching and riding and running to Boston for clients up north.

We were operating the mill.

I was laser focused on my career.

U.S. team for St.Tropez League of Nations Narions Cup

Details: September 12, 2025; By SARA CAVANAGH

LEXINGTON, Ky.--US Equestrian announced the riders selected to represent the U.S. Jumping Team at the Longines League of Nations St. Tropez CSIO5* hosted in St. Tropez, France, from September 18-21.

NC Tea St T The team will be led by Chef d’Equipe Robert Ridland and Team Leader Lizzy Chesson.

The following riders have been selected to represent the U.S. Jumping Team and are listed in alphabetical order.

Karl Cook of Rancho Santa Fe, Calif.

Laura Kraut of Royal Palm Beach, Fla.

Alex Matz of Coatesville, Pa.

Alessandra Volpi Woodside, Calif.

Competition Information

The final qualifying competition for the Longines League of Nations Final will be hosted in St. Tropez, France, at Haras de Gassin Polo Club - St. Tropez, from September 18-21.

Competition will begin on Thursday, Sept. 18, with the Longines League of Nations Grand Prix CSIO5* starting at 6:00 p.m, which is12:00 p.m. ET on Friday, September 19.

The Longines League of Nations two-round team competition will start at 1:30 p.m., which is 7:30 a.m. ET on Sunday, Sept. 21, to conclude the week of competition.

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Laura Chapot to compete at the Devon Fall Classic

Details: September 10, 2025; By Staff Writers

DEVON, Pa.--Laura Chapot of Neshanic Station, N.J. will be competing on three horses in the 1.40m classes at the Devon Fall Classic, which begins tomorrow, Sept. 11, and runs though Sunday, Sept. 14.

Laura Chapot on CC Willow KindMedia Laura Chapot on CC Willow at an earlier show this year (Photo by KindMedia)The 1.40m division is shaping up to be three evenings of hard fought and exciting competitions.

Chapot has been Leading Rider at the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair a number of times, and she has also won the Grand Prix at the Fall Classic a number of times.

But last year, Caitlin Boyle on Navaar won the Fall Classic Grand Prix, and Chapot is campaigning to win that title back again.

Boyle has said that she expects to be back at the Fall Classic to defend her title, and she'll be riding Prianti van het Mikkenhof his year.

Get your tickets early to watch this exciting battle between two of the winningest riders on the circuit, as the Grand Prix annually draws a standing room only crowd.

Chapot will be competing on a relatively new horse, Jolie, as well as C &C Willow and Ginola in the 1.40m classes.

She is also competing Ciego in the 1.30m division.

WEF is buildng a huge indoor arena

Details: September 9, 2025; By Staff Writers

WELLINGTON, Fla.-A covered riding arena that will redefine the future of equestrian sport at the Winter Equestrian Festival is being built on Wellington International's 111-acre property.

Wellington indoor arena under constructionThe structure will included not only an indoor riding arena but also ample space for spectator seating.

Coastal Steel Structures, Wellington International and Wellington Lifestyle Partners are collaborating to build the the 86,000 square foot facility structure that will be the largest equestrian arena ever built for both Wellington International and Coastal Steel Structures, and the biggest in South Florida.

The addition of this expansive covered arena will provide riders and horses with a premier and competitive environment, regardless of weather conditions, further enhancing Wellington International's reputation as a leader in equestrian sport.