News

McLain Ward loses his top mount Imperial

Details: February 12, 2026; By Staff Writers

WELLINGTON, Fla.--Imperial, McLain Ward's top hope for both a team and individual medal in the Los Angeles Olympics, was humanely destroyed after suffering colic.

McLain Wardon Imperial HBF La Baule McLain Ward on Imperial HBF at La BauleWard got the ride on imperial early in 2025 and started winning almost immediately.

Among his wins on Imperial, in just his second or third ride on Imperial, Ward finished clean in the Nations Cup at La Baule in May to anchor the team to a win.

In Rome, Ward's clean round on Imperial as the anchor rider for the team won the Nations Cup for the U.S., and he placed scond in the Loro Piana Trophy.

McLain just loves this horse," said chef d'equipe Robert Ridland after one of his winning rounds. "He comes out smiling after every class."

"It is with great sadness that we share the loss of Imperial HBF (“Paddy”) yesterday due to complications from colic,"said Ward.. "Paddy suffered a bout of colic and, despite two surgeries and every possible effort to save him, the incredibly difficult decision was made—by his owner Michael Smith, myself, and a devoted team of caretakers and veterinarians—that the kindest and most humane choice was to let him go.
Paddy fought tirelessly, just as he did throughout his career as a competitor, and our entire family and team are devastated by his loss.
During this challenging time, his owner, Mike Smith, exemplified true horsemanship—spending countless hands-on hours by Paddy’s side, doing everything possible to support his recovery, and never wavering in his trust in the team caring for him.
The veterinarians and support staff at Rood & Riddle Wellington, along with Dr. Tim Ober, were nothing short of extraordinary. As always, I am deeply grateful to my own team for their unwavering dedication and compassion throughout this process.
Godspeed, Imperial."

Lee McKeever and Albany elected to Show Jumping Hall of Fame

Details: February 11, 2026; By Staff Writers

LEXINGTON, Ky.--Lee McKeever and Albany, Leslie Burr Howard’s 1984 Olympic mount, have been elected to the Show Jumping Hall of Fame.

Lee McKeeverThey will be formally inducted during the Hall of Fame’s Induction Gala on Sunday evening, March 1, at the Wellington National Golf Club in Wellington, Fla.

The Hall of Fame will also present its annual International Award to Irish Olympic veteran Kevin Babington.

LEE McKEEVER

For the last 38 years, Lee McKeever has been the sport horse manager and closest advisor to six-time Olympian McLain Ward.

McKeever has been an indispensable member of Ward’s team and has played a key role in Ward’s competing in 20 World Cup Finals and 14 major championships, bringing home 13 medals.

Originally from Dublin, Ireland, McKeever started his love affair with horses when he was 12 years old.

While still a boy, McKeever left school and found a job as a groom.

Shortly thereafter, someone told him that a friend, Jimmy Doyle, could get him a job in America.

McKeever came to the U.S. in 1988 and took a job working for Barney Ward at Castle Hill Farm in Brewster, N.Y.

Scott Brash new world number one over Kent Farrington

Details: February 10, 2026; By Staff Writers

Great Britain’s Scott Brash is the new world number one, taking the lead of the global standings with 3,459 points, supplanting Kent Farrington.

Kent Farington on Greya Trevese Megan Giese Kent Farington on Greya (Photo by Megan Giese)Brash moves up from second place to claim the coveted World No. 1 position, edging ahead of former leader Farrington, who now sits in second place with 3,415 points.

“I’m incredibly proud to be World Number One again," said Brash. "More than anything, it’s a reflection of the extraordinary team around me - the people who work tirelessly every single day, caring for our horses with such love and dedication. They are the ones who make sure the horses are as happy and healthy as they can possibly be, allowing us to do what we do, and who keep everything moving forward.

“For me, reaching Number One is never about just a few recent results. It’s something that is built quietly and patiently over many years. With horses, success comes from the time you invest in them, the trust you develop, and a knowing it’s a long-term journey. That’s why it feels so special to stand here with such remarkable horses, all of whom feel at the very top of their game. This is also a moment to say thank you to my owners, who have supported me for so many years with trust and belief, and to our partners, whose support makes so much possible. My focus now remains simple; to keep the horses as fit, healthy and happy as they can be. Everything else follows from that.”

U.S. team for Abu Dhabi

Details: January 31, 2026; By Staff Writers

LEXINGTON, Ky.--US Equestrian announced the riders selected to represent the U.S. Jumping Team at the Longines League of Nations Abu Dhabi CSIO5*-LLN in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, from Feb. 12-15.

Team fo Abu Dhabi 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:
• Natalie Dean of Wellington, Fla.
• Callie Schott of Wellington, Fla.
• Sarah Segal of Flemington, N.J.
• Skylar Wireman of Bonsall, Calif.

Competition Information

Competition begins Thursday, Feb.12, and will conclude Sunday, Feb. 15, at the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Center.

The highlight Longines League of Nations™ team event is set for Friday, Feb.13, at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time, which is 6"30 p.m Abu Dhabi timr.

The €308,600 Longines Grand Prix CSIO5*, will conclude competition on Sunday, Feb. 15, starting at 7:00 a.m. Eastern Time,which is 4 p.m. Abu Dhabi time.

The Longines League of Nations competition brings together the top 10 teams from around the globe with fields of four riders per team with the best three scores counting from the first round.

For the second round, the best eight teams return with three riders, selected by the chefs d’equipe, starting in reverse order from the first round.

The final placings are determined by the combined penalties of each team’s three best scores in the first round and all team scores in the second round.

The Longines League of Nations Abu Dhabi CSIO5*-LLN will be streamed on FEI.TV.

US Equestrian competing members, subscribers, and fans receive a 10% discount on a ClipMy

Temple Gwathmey Steeplechase elects trustees

Details: January 14, 2026; By Staff Writers

The Temple Gwathmey Steeplechase Foundation has elected two new trustees and re-elected three others.

The new members of the non-profit are Achsah O'Donovan and Mark Beecher.

Mark Beecher in coat Mark Beecher Irish import Mark Beecher comes from an equestrian family.

As a junior, Beecher won the European show jumping championship, twice, on family homebreds.

He rode point-to-points in Ireland and England before shifting his tack to America in 2010 to ride for Maryland-based George Mahoney’s Rosbrian Farm.

Over nine seasons as a rider, Mark Beecher won two Maryland Hunt Cups, three NSA amateur titles and every timber stakes on the U.S. circuit.

Beecher retired from riding after the 2019 season and turned his full focus to training. In 2025 Beecher sat fourth in the NSA trainer standings (races won) with 14 wins from 70 starts and earnings of $393,000. (Douglas Lees photo)

Achsah O'Donovan grew up in Maryland, foxhunting with the Green Spring Valley Hounds.

She became a teacher, social worker and artist living in Colorado.

Later in life she returned to Maryland.

No longer able to ride, O'Donovan became involved in the steeplechase world as an owner.

She has owned horses with trainers Alicia Murphy, Joseph Davies and Mark Beecher.

Radnor Hunt Concours d’Elegance's donation to Thorncroft Equestrian Center

Details: January 8, 2026; By Staff Writers

MALVERN, Pa.--The Radnor Hunt Concours d'Elegance has announced its latest charitable donation to Thorncroft Equestrian Center, continuing a meaningful partnership dedicated to enriching lives through equine-assisted services.

Radnor Left to right, Tiffany Meyer, Executive Director, Thorncroft Equestrian Center;
Tobey Ross, Co-Chairman & President, Radnor Hunt Concours d’Elegance;
Michael G. Tillson III, Chairman and Founder, Radnor Hunt Concours d’Elegance (Photo by Emma Yanowsky)

Over the course of its relationship with Thorncroft, the Radnor Hunt Concours d’Elegance has contributed well over $165,000 to support the organization’s adaptive, recreational, and veteran’s equine-assisted services programming.

This prestigious automotive event supports adaptive and equine-assisted programming serving hundreds of participants annually

These funds help make it possible for more than 400 participants each year to learn, grow, and thrive at Thorncroft’s Malvern-based farm, advancing the physical and emotional well-being of individuals of all abilities.

“With grateful appreciation to the Radnor Hunt Concours d'Elegance Executive Board and volunteers, we thank them for their support of Thorncroft's mission to develop the physical and emotional well-being of all people, regardless of their individual challenges,” said Tiffany Meyer, Executive Director of Thorncroft Equestrian Center. “Their continued generosity allows us to expand access to life-changing equine-assisted services and deepen our impact across the community.”

Cotner Trailer letter to the Editor

Details: January 6, 2026; By SARA CAVANAGH

Letter to the Editor;

cotner 13 Just letting you know that I am calling it quits after 25 years or a total of 55 years for the Cotner name.

We are having an auction and have a couple horse trailers available.

Spread the work.

Thank you again for The Horse of the Delaware Valley, it has let us reach many customers over the years.

Pete Smith
Cotner Trailers

Kent Farrington leads in Jumping World Ranking, while in Eventing Boyd Martin remais second

Details: December 12, 2025; By Staff Writers

In world ranking for Jumpimg, Kent Farrington remains at the top of the Longines Rankings for yet another month with a tally of 3,417 points, followed by Great Britain’s Scott Brash, who stays behind the American with 3,222 points, while Germany’s Christian Kukuk ascends to the top three on 3,155 points after surpassing Ben Maher of Great Britain with 3,152 points.

Kent Farrington on Greya Sarah Miller for MacMillan Kent Farrington on Greya (Photo by Sarah Miller for MacMillan)Gilles Thomas of Belgium completes the top 5 with 3,039 points.

Richard Vogel of Germany with 2,870 points maintains sixth, while Laura Kraut with 2,779 points and Harrie Smolders Netherlands with 2,712 points exchange positions on seventh and eight respectively.

France’s Julien Epaillard is now ninth with 2,711 points, followed by Daniel Coyle of Ireland, 10th on 2,697 points, and McLain Ward stays 11th with 2689..

In the Longines League of Nations Ranking, the USA’s dominance continues.

For the 11th consecutive month, USA, 14,780 points, maintains its position as leader with current European Champions, Belgium second with 14,346 points, followed by Team France. 13,973 points, who is now third after climbing two spots.

Ireland drops to fourth, with a tally of 13,763 points, followed by Germany, with 13,558 points.

The rest of the positions remain unchanged, with Great Britain (13,195 points), Netherlands (11,819 points), Italy (10,177 points), Switzerland (10,169 points) and Brazil (9,429 points)

In Eventing, Harry Meade of Great Britain remains at the top of the World ranking for the seventh consecutive month with 588 points.

Meade is followed by Boyd Martin, who remains just 51 points behind the leader.

Current European Champion Laura Collet of Great Britain maintains third place on 469 points, followed by Tim Price of New Zealand, 455 points and Rosalind Canter of Great Britain who remains fifth on 453 points.

Team USA are leading the way in the senior Para Dressage Rankings: Fiona Howard (1,619 points) and Team USA (1,339 points) maintain the top spot in both Individual and Team rankings.

Devon Horse Show and Country Fair Donates $375,000 to Bryn Mawr Hospital

Details: December 8, 2025; By Staff Writers

Devon Horse Show and Country Fair Donates $375,000 to Bryn Mawr Hospital as Part of $2M Pledge to Support Hospital’s Inpatient Psychiatric Unit Continuing Its Role as the Largest Donor to Bryn Mawr Hospital

DEVON, Pa.--The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair donated $375,000 to Bryn Mawr Hospital, part of Main Line Health, during a celebratory event and check presentation on Friday, December 5, 2025 at 5:30 PM. Continuing its role as the largest donor to the hospital, Wayne W. Grafton, CEO and Chairman of the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, along with Country Fair Co-chairs Beth Previti and Christine Conners, presented the check to Ed Jimenez, Chief Executive Officer of Main Line Health; John Schwarz, President of Bryn Mawr Hospital; Pam Porter, Chair of the Bryn Mawr Hospital Foundation Board; and Cinda Johnson, Executive Director of the Bryn Mawr Hospital Foundation.

Devon presentation As Devon approaches its historic 130th anniversary in 2026, this milestone year carries added significance. The Show continues to embody a proud Main Line tradition of civic philanthropy—reflecting more than a century of community leadership, volunteerism, and partnership with Bryn Mawr Hospital.
This $375,000 donation is made against the $2M pledge supporting Bryn Mawr Hospital’s inpatient psychiatric unit. The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair and the Hospital’s leadership team continue to celebrate their longstanding partnership as they prepare for expanded community engagement leading into 2026.

The relationship between the Devon Horse Show and Bryn Mawr Hospital dates back to 1919, making it one of the longest and most impactful philanthropic partnerships in the region—now 106 years strong. This enduring bond continues to fund capital projects, medical equipment, and essential patient care initiatives, reaffirming Devon’s place as the hospital’s most steadfast benefactor.

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.