News

Carriage Eventing on Memorial Day at Devon

Details: April 9, 2026; By Staff Writers

DEVON, Pa. (April 9, 20206) – A new tradition will take the spotlight this Memorial Day as the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair introduces Carriage Eventing for the first time in its 130-year history. This exciting discipline will make its debut on Memorial Day evening at 7 p.m., bringing a thrilling new dimension to one of the most storied equestrian events in the country.

Combining the art of carriage driving with the excitement of a fast-paced obstacle course, Carriage Eventing will challenge competitors to race through both the Dixon Oval and the Wheeler Ring in a dynamic test of skill, precision, and speed. Every second counts, every corner matters, and the excitement is nonstop. Learn more about Carriage Eventing under our special events section at the below link.

The inaugural competition will feature 12 entries competing for a $10,000 prize, underscoring the significance of this new addition to Devon’s Memorial Day programming. The debut is supported by sponsors Bennington Carriages, Koehler’s Jewelry, and Election Services Online, helping launch what is expected to become a new Memorial Day tradition at Devon.

The addition of Carriage Eventing follows Devon’s Memorial Day programming, a special patriotic tribute honoring America’s 250th anniversary. In keeping with its deep American roots, Devon will host an expanded Tribute to Heroes Ceremony beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, May 25. The ceremony will feature the Valley Forge Park Alliance alongside a George Washington reenactor and Color Guard, the First City Troop, and local first responders, including recognition of a World War II veteran and a call for all active and retired military, fire, police, and EMS personnel in attendance to stand for a special flag unveiling.

World Championships in Aachen in August

Details: April 4, 2026; By SARA CAVANAGH

The World Championships in jumping, dressage, eventing, driving and vaulting will take place in Aachen, Germany Aug. 11-23.

Kent Farrington on Greya million Sportfot Kent Farrington, shown here on Greya, leads the Rider Ranking list (Photo by Sportfot)For jumping, a Short List of 10 riders that is 80% objective will be released in about two weeks.

The top four riders from the U.S. ranking list, the top four horses, whose riders were not previously qualified, and the top rider from the World Cup not already qualified but who finished in the top 10 will automatically make the Short List.

The remaining two riders will be selected by chef d'equipe Robert Ridland and a panel of selectors.

There will be five mandatory observation sites, and the selectors will name the riders to compete at these observation sites.

The observation sites are the Aachen spring show, Rome, St.Galen, La Baule and Rotterdam.

Fire destroys MFH Jim Paxson's barn

Details: April 3, 2026; By SARA CAVANAGH

KIRKWOOD, Pa.--James C (Jim) Paxson suffered a devastating fire that destroyed his barn and everything in it on Tuesday, March 31.

Paxson 1 Paxson is Master of Foxhounds of River Hills Foxhounds, and his Funnel Lake Farm is the base for hunt horses and foxhounds.

Luckily, no horses or foxhounds were lost in the fire, and the fire didn't spread to the nearby kennels of his River Hills Foxhounds or to his house.

But Paxson lost all of the horses' and hound's feed, multiple balesof hay, blankets, sheets, tack, vehicles and the barn, which was burned to the ground.

Paxson has helped many people over the years, and now he needs help.

Some people have already given his blankets for his horses, as all were lost in the fire and weather turned chilly again.

But really big ticket items like a new barn and tractors will take huge donations.

A methid of donating to Paxson in a way that will be tax deductible is being investigated, and if a way is found, it will be published in The Horse.

"My heart is breaking," said Paxson. "I'm having trouble sleeping. I'm having trouble with the insurance company. Hopefully, the good Lord will take care of us.

"I ran out, just in my long johns, but the barn was already engulfed.

Mclain Ward out of the World Cup

Details: April 2, 2026; By Staff Writers

LEXINGTON, Ky.--McLain Ward has withdrawn from the World Cup due to a minor injury.

Wld Cup lilKeenan Lillie KeenanWard broke a small bone in his hand when Snapchat fell in a jump-off at the Winter Equestrian Festival.

He subsequently withdrew from riding on the U.S team at the Nations Cup in Ocalan, but he hoped at that time to be able to ride in the World Cup.

But on April 2 US Equestrian announced two new riders, one for USA Jumping and one for USA Dressage for the 2026 FEI World Cup Finals hosted in Ft. Worth, Texas, at Dickies Arena from April 8-12.

Lillie Keenan on Kick On will replace McLain Ward on Jordan Molga M, who have withdrawn, as Ward is recovering from a minor injury.

Ben Ebeling on Bellena will join USA Dressage's two other combinations, as they were allocated a starting place after another rider's withdrawal.

The FEI World Cup Final is held annually as an international individual final and will feature the disciplines of dressage and jumping across four days of competition.

Competition Information

Racing to be held at Fair Hill over Memorial Day weekend

Details: April 2, 2026; By Staff Writers

ELKTON, Md.--The Maryland Jockey Club will host racing at Fair Hill over Memorial Day weekend for the first time in six years.

Fair Hill turf course 1 Fair Hill turf course Flat racing will be held on the turf track on Sunday, May 24 and steeplechasing will be held on Monday, Memorial Day, May 25.

Racing at Fair Hill began in 1934 with the Foxcatcher National Cup over fences.

Fair Hill held steeplechase races for almost 90 years on Memorial Day.

Due to track renovations and problems caused by the Maryland five star event, racing was suspended after the 2019 meeting.

Fair hill held one day of racing last year on Saturday, Aug. 30.

"The National Steeplechase Association and its strong following of horsemen and fans are gratedul to the Maryland Jockey Club for hosting the event and excited about the return, after a long hiatus, of the historic Maryland steeplechasing tradition," said Bill Gallo, director of racing at NSA. " This will be the perfect finale, with a mixture of hurdle, timber and flat races, to close out our spring racing season on Memorial Day."

Parimutuel wagering will be available on site and nationwide through ADW wagering under the "Laurel at Fair Hill" name.

Ticketing information will be announced soon.

Farrington and Ward lead U.S. contingent for World Cup

Details: March 28, 2026; By Staff Writers

LEXINGTON, Ky.--US Equestrian announced the USA Jumping and USA Dressage riders and horses that will compete in the FEI World Cup Finals in Ft. Worth, Texas, at Dickies Arena from April 8-12.

Riders for World Cup The FEI World Cup Final is held annually as an international individual final and will feature the disciplines of dressage and jumping across four days of competition.

USA JUMPING

The following will represent USA Jumping at the World Cup Final and are listed in alphabetical order.

Kaitlin Campbell of Temecula, Calif. on COSM Castlefield Cornelious

Katie Dinan of Wellington, Fla.on Out of the Blue SCF

Mimi Gochman of West Palm Beach, Fla. on Inclen BH

Kent Farrington pf Wellington, Fla. with Greya and Toulayna

Laura Kraut of Royal Palm Beach, Fla. on Tres Bien Z

Jacob Pope of Owings Mills, Md. on Highway FBH

Aaron Vale of Williston, Fla. on Carissimo 25

McLain Ward of Brewster, N.Y. on Jordan Molga M

Skylar Wireman pf Bonsall, Calif. with Barclino B, and Tornado

USA DRESSAGE

Dressae riders for World Cup The following will represent USA Dressage at the World Cup Final and are listed in alphabetical order.

Kevin Kohmann of Wellington, Fla.on Duenensee

Christian Simonson of Ventura, Calif. on Indian Rock

COMPETITION INFORMATION

The FEI Dressage World Cup Final will take place on Thursday, April 9, and Saturday, April 11.

• Thursday, April 9 – FEI Grand Prix at 7:00 p.m., which is 8:00 p.m. ET
• Saturday, April 11 – FEI Grand Prix Freestyle at 7:00 p.m. , which is 8:00 p.m. ET

The FEI Jumping World Cup Final will take place from Thursday, April 9, through Sunday, April 13.

• Wednesday, April 8 – Warm Up Class at 2:00 p.m. which is 3:00 p.m. ET
• Thursday, April 9 – Final I at 2:00 p.m., which is 3:00 p.m. ET
• Friday, April 10 – Final II at 7:00 p.m., which is 8:00 p.m. ET
• Sunday, April 12 – Final III at 12:00 p, which is 1:00 p.m. ET

Watch the 2026 FEI World Cup Final live stream on FEI.TV.

US Equestrian competing members, subscribers, and fans receive a 10% discount on a ClipMyHorse.TV Premium Subscription, including FEI TV.

Murray Kessler fired as the CEO of the Winter Equestrian Festival

Details: March 27, 2026; By Staff Writers

WELLINGTON,, Fla.--Murray Kessler was fired from all his duties at the Winter Equestrian Festival on March 27 following an incident on Feb. 7 in which a female employee accused Kessler of battery.

Murray Kessler Lenore Brown, sponsorship director of Wellington International, accused Kessler of battery, saying that Kessler grabbed her hair and forced her head toward his crotch while they were in the VIP dining club.

Brown filed an offense report with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office on Feb. 17.

Brown was crouching to talk to clients while Kessler was standing above her.

According to the report, “grabbed her hair with both hands and pulled her head backward, positioning her head in his crotch area so she was looking up at him.”

Kessler continued to hold her head while talking about a presentation in the ring.

Four people corroborated this incident in sword statements.

At the time, Wellington International provided a statement that read, “Wellington International (WI) is aware of a complaint involving two of its employees. WI respects the rights of all individuals; the company takes any allegations very seriously and has initiated a full and thorough investigation. We believe it is important that any review be conducted carefully and completely. We will not be commenting further while the process is ongoing.”

No arrest was made, and no charges were brought against Kessler at that time.

Devon Horse Show & Country Fair Celebrates 130 Years of Tradition and Community Impact

Details: March 25, 2026; By Staff Writers

The oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed horse show in North America returns, May 20 – May 31, 2026

DEVON, Pa.--Started in 1896, the Devon Horse Show & Country Fair is the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed horse show in North America and draws top competitors from around the world. In 2026, Devon proudly celebrates its 130th Anniversary with 12 days of world-class equestrian sport, family fun, and community philanthropy, taking place May 20 through May 31, 2026.

McLain Ward on Callas Kind Media Devon McLain Ward on Callas (Photo by Kind Media)This milestone year carries special national significance as it coincides with America’s 250th Anniversary. Founded in the heart of the Philadelphia region—the birthplace of our nation—Devon has long stood as a living reflection of the values that shaped America: volunteerism, civic pride, perseverance, and community. As the country prepares to commemorate America 250, it is especially meaningful that Philadelphia has been recognized as the number one city to visit in 2026, affirming what so many in this region have always known: its history, culture, and traditions continue to resonate on a global stage. For 130 years, Devon has proudly been part of that American story.

“It is my distinct honor and privilege to welcome our competitors, families, volunteers, sponsors, vendors, and spectators to the 130th Anniversary of the Devon Horse Show & Country Fair,” said Wayne W. Grafton, Chairman and CEO. “As we celebrate 130 years of Devon and commemorate America’s 250th Anniversary, we reflect not only on our remarkable history, but on the generations who have preserved this tradition. Our commitment to excellence, philanthropy, and community remains unwavering. Devon’s future is strong, its legacy enduring, and its place in American equestrian history secure—where champions have always met and always will.”

The Horse seeks an Ad Rep

Details: March 18, 2026; By SARA CAVANAGH

WEST CHESTER, Pa.--The Horse of Delaware Valley is looking for a sales person with knowledge of the equine industry to fill a key position.

logo in color Our Advertising Director Ginny Jenkins will train the person that wins this position.

You can work from the comfort of home, and receive a commission for your sales.

Seniors are welcome to apply.

The Horse of Delaware Valley was sounded in 1980, and we have built up a loyal following of advertisers.

We are looking for a person who can continue to grow our product

Please send your resume to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for consideration.

Kevin's Rockstars a huge success

Details: March 16, 2026; By SARA CAVANAGH

WELLINGTON, Fla.--The Kevin Babington Foundation hosted an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, generosity, and community following the incredible success of Kevin’s Rockstars 2026, held on Sunday, March 8 at Eyecandyland Farm in Wellington.

Kevin Babington at RockstarsWith more than 450 guests in attendance and 14 incredible performances lighting up the stage, this year’s Kevin’s Rockstars was a moving reminder of the strength, compassion, and unity that define the equestrian community and all those who rally behind the mission of the Kevin Babington Foundation.

What began as a special evening of entertainment quickly became something even greater — a heartfelt celebration of resilience, friendship, and the shared belief that when a community comes together, lives can truly be changed.

“Kevin’s Rockstars is a reflection of everything this foundation stands for — courage, compassion, and community,” said Jeff Papows, Chairman of the Kevin Babington Foundation. “To see more than 450 people come together in support of this mission, and to witness the energy and heart behind each of the 14 acts, was incredibly moving. The evening was a beautiful expression of love for Kevin, for this cause, and for the many individuals and families this foundation continues to support.”

Maryland Five Star canceled

Details: March 11, 2026; By SARA CAVANAGH

FAIR HILL, Md--The U.S.Equestrian confirmed on Tuesday, March 10 that there will be no Maryland Five Star this year.

Boyd Martin on Commando 3 jump Allen Macmillan for Macmillan Photogaphy Boyd Martin on Commando 3, third at Fair Hill in 2025 (Photo by Allen Macmillan for Macmillan Photography)Maryland had held the annual license for the five star competition, and as the 2026 competition has been canceled, the license is open and the 2027 competition is now open for bidding from other organizations.

The event was canceled "due to apparent financial concerns,"but not only has the five star been losing money, it also has lost its entire leadership.

Joanie Morris, the longtime competition director, left in November to go to the Aiken Horse Park Foundation in South Carolina.

Sports & Entertainment Corporation President Terry Hasseltime and CEO Jeff Newman left in December.

The five star has been losing money, and employees missed paychecks until the state recently authorized $94,000 for the Sport & Entertainment Cor[oration.

"It's such a shame," said Boyd Martin, who is eventing world ranked number two, and he won the Five Star in 2021 and finished third last year on Commando.

Press release by the Fair Hill Foundation on fall 3* and 5* future

Details: March 11, 2026; By Staff Writers

The Fair Hill Foundation announces plans are underway for the CCI3-L Event to take place at Fair Hill in October 2026. Anticipating approval by the United States Equestrian Foundation (USEF) and support from the State of Maryland, The Foundation reaffirms its long‑term vision for the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill

Fair Hill turf course 1 Fair Hill stands, left, and competition rings, rightOn Tuesday, March 10, the United States Equestrian Foundation (USEF) announced that the 2026 Maryland 5 Star, scheduled for October 2026, has been cancelled. Since 2020, the event had been held annually in the Special Event Zone of the Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area, owned and managed by the State of Maryland.

The Fair Hill Foundation is immensely proud of what the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill has become. In just a few short years, the event has earned its place as one of only seven 5 Star Eventing competitions in the world - an extraordinary achievement that reflects the passion, commitment, and generous support of so many individuals and organizations who helped bring this vision to Maryland.

From its earliest days, the Maryland 5 Star has represented more than a competition. It has been a statement of what is possible at Fair Hill: world‑class sport, meaningful community engagement, and a platform capable of attracting the very best of the global equestrian community. The Foundation recognizes and sincerely thanks all those whose leadership, energy, and perseverance established this event and elevated it to international prominence.

As the Maryland 5 Star has grown, it has also reached a natural point of evolution. Events of this caliber require different structures, resources, and leadership as they transition from successful launch to long‑term institution. With that in mind, and in close collaboration with key partners and stakeholders, the deliberate decision has been made to pause the CCI5‑L competition in 2026.

Scott Brash leads in jumping world rankings with Kent Farrinton second

Details: March 6, 2026; By Staff Writers

In Longines Jumping World Rankings, Scott Brash, Great Britain’s double Olympic gold medalist from London 2012 and Paris 2024, retains his lead, and the gap between the Scottish rider and Kent Farrington, the man he deposed from world number one at the end of January, has widened considerably from the 44 points that separated the pair in the end-January rankings.

Kent Farrington on Greya from Geneva Kent Farrington on Greya Brash leadse on 3,477, with Farrington now 241 points behind on 3,236.

Ben Maher, a triple gold Olympian for Great Britain, is third on 3,060 in an unchanged top three, but Richard Vogel of Germany, the 2025 European champion, has moved up two slots with 3,022 points , dropping Gilles Thomas of Belgium with 3,019 and Christian Kukuk of Germany with 2,966 to fifth and sixth.

Nina Mallevaey of France moved up one place to seventh on 2,885 points to hold onto her world number one female athlete title.

The top 10 is completed by Julien Epaillard of France on 2,881, Shane Sweetnam of Ireland on 2,794 and McLain Ward on 2,791.

In the Longines League of Nations Ranking, Team USA still leads, with its latest total of 15,253 increasing its advantage to 769 points over second-placed Belgium on 14,484.

U.S. team of Lillie Keenan, Laura Kraut, Aaron Vale and McLain Ward to defend in Ocala

Details: March 4, 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 Ocala CSIO5*-LLN in Ocala, Fla., at the World Equestrian Center from March 17-22.

U.S teamfor Ocala The team will be led by Chef d’Equipe Robert Ridland and Team Leader Lizzy Chesson.

The FEI also announced the riders for the other nine teams.

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

Lillie Keenan of New York, N.Y.

Laura Kraut of Royal Palm Beach, Fla.

Aaron Vale of Williston, Fla.

McLain Ward of Brewster, N.Y.

The competition will begin on Wednesday, March 18, and conclude on Saturday, March 21.

The $350,000 Grand Prix CSIO5* will take place on Thursday, March 19, at 7:30 p.m. ET, while the highlight event, the League of Nations CSIO5* team competition, will take place on Saturday, March 21, with round one beginning at 5:15 p.m. ET.

The competition includes the top 10 teams from around the globe with fields of four-athlete teams, and the best three scores will count from the first round.

Devon prize list now available

Details: February 28, 2026; By Staff Writers

DEVON, Pa.--The countdown is officially underway.

Devon generic winner galloping Devon Sapphire Grand Prix winner Aaron Vale on Carissimo 25Entries are now open for the 130th Devon Horse Show & Country Fair, taking place May 20–31, 2026, in the iconic Dixon Oval.

As the largest and oldest outdoor multi-breed horse show in North America, Devon’s 130th anniversary year promises world-class competition, cherished traditions, and exciting new activations in celebration of this historic milestone.

Exhibitors are invited to secure their place in the Dixon Oval and be part of this landmark year.

The official Prize List and entry information are available at www.devonhorseshow.net under Exhibitors → Exhibitor’s Info.

Additional event details and anniversary announcements will be released in the coming weeks as the countdown to Devon begins.

For more information, visit www.devonhorseshow.net.

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McLain Ward anchors team for WEF Nations Cup

Details: February 18, 2026; By Staff Writers

LEXINGTON, Ky. --US Equestrian announced the riders selected to represent the U.S. Jumping Team at the FEI Jumping Nations Cup CSIO4* at the Winter Equestrian Festival from Feb. 25-March 1.

US team Wellington 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.
• Marilyn Little of Wellington, Fla.
• Callie Schott of Wellington, Fla.
• McLain Ward of Brewster, N.Y.

Competition Information

The Jumping Nations Cup Wellington CSIO4* will begin on Wednesday, Feb. 25, with the opening classes of the week, followed by the WEF Challenge 8 CSIO4* on Thursday, Feb. 26, at 8:00 a.m. ET.

The highlight class of the week, the $200,000 Jumping Nations Cup CSIO4* will start with the first round of competition at 6:00 p.m. ET, on Saturday, Feb. 28, with the second round beginning at approximately 7:30 p.m. ET.

The classes will be live streamedon the Winter Equestrian Festival and ClipMyHorse.