“Horse Illustrated and Young Rider are proud to continue participating at BreyerFest,” said Digital Manager Mary Cage. “As magazines dedicated to those who love horses, BreyerFest is the perfect fit for our audience, because we are all there for the same reason — to celebrate the horse.”

Giveaways available to enter at the Horse Illustrated and Young Rider booth include a horseback riding vacation to Unicorn Trails’ Yellowstone Ranch in Wyoming, and a 1-year subscription to Young Rider magazine along with a Young Rider backpack.

If you’re unable to attend BreyerFest, stay tuned to Horse Illustrated and Young Rider socials (@horseillustrated and @youngridermagazine) for live updates on all the fun.

About Our Publications

Horse Illustrated, Young Rider, Western Life Today, HorseIllustrated.com, YoungRider.com, and WesternLifeToday.com are part of the EG Media stable. Horse Illustrated is the magazine for people who are passionate about horses. Each issue offers advice on horse health and care, plus user-friendly training tips for both English and western riders and engaging lifestyle features for horse lovers. Young Rider educates horse-loving kids ages 8-15 with a combination of English and western riding lessons, horse-care hints, and stories about real-life young riders, plus fun, interactive elements. Western Life Today is the premier publication for all things western, from fashion and entertainment to destinations and more. Visit www.horseillustrated.com, www.youngrider.com, and www.westernlifetoday.com to learn more. Contact us at 844-330-6373 or horseillustrated@egmediamags.com.

The post Horse Illustrated & Young Rider Magazines Return to BreyerFest 2026 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Calgary Stampede

Full-sized horses not your thing? The Canadian National Miniature Horse Show offers halter, driving, jumping and obstacle competition. But if you prefer speed over size, don’t miss the Calgary Stampede Cowboy Up Challenge. This western class focuses on speed: A rider must complete multiple obstacle challenges that showcase the partnership and trust between horse and rider.

The Calgary Stampede is notorious for its rodeo, which begins every afternoon at 1:30 p.m. and builds toward the finale: Showdown Sunday. With competition in barrel racing, bull riding, tie-down roping, breakaway roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc and bareback riding, over $2.17 million in prize money will be awarded.

Horses aren’t the only thing to do at the Stampede: Live music plays every night on a plethora of stages, parades keep the fun flowing and motocross, family friendly entertainment and so much more awaits!

Learn more at calgarystampede.com.

The post Event Preview: The Calgary Stampede appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

A crowd lines the hillsides overlooking Georgia International Horse Park’s Grand Prix Arena. It’s a steamy evening on July 5th, 2024, at the Georgia Quarter Horse Association’s Big A/Stars & Stripes Circuit, and feet, some clad in flip-flops and others still sporting boots with spurs that sing with every kick, dangle from the arena wall. A diverse sea of faces look out excitedly over the hallowed sand where Olympic dreams were made during the 1996 summer games in Atlanta.

A hush falls over the crowd, and both cowboy hats and caps proudly displaying military branches of service are placed over hearts as a cowboy on a striking palomino enters the stadium. He carries an American flag, familiar colors dancing proudly in the evening light as the golden horse’s gait quickens with the building climax of Johnny Cash’s “Ragged Old Flag,” poignant words shimmering across the summer breeze.

There’s an almost electric feeling of pride blanketing the stadium when the cowboy stops to present the colors. It’s a fitting opening for one sector of the horse industry’s tribute to the men and women of our armed forces: the Heroes Horsemanship Challenge (HHC).

The event opened with a cowboy carrying the American flag to Johnny Cash’s song “Ragged Old Flag” aboard an eye-catching palomino. Photo by Cody Parmenter Photography

How It Started

Inspired by the Heroes on Horseback Challenge held at the All-American Quarter Horse Congress, North Carolina horse trainer Jake Hartman and his wife Ali were drawn to the idea of creating a similar event to honor our country’s service members. Former Army Ranger Ryan Bandy’s magnetic personality while offering encouragement to his fellow competitors at the Congress Challenge led Jake and Ali to conversation with Brandy and his wife, Kaylee, who has served almost 20 years in the Army herself.

Together, the couples decided to create a similar event that would level the playing field. Instead of running it as a pleasure class (where the horses are being judged), they chose to score participants on a horsemanship pattern.

This put the focus on the performance of the riders rather than relying solely on the quality of the horse, allowing more riders to be able to compete with a smaller number of horses needed to accommodate them. The first competition was held in 2022, and annually since then.

Camaraderie & Competition

The Heroes Horsemanship Challenge is a team event open to both past and current members of the armed forces and their family members. Riders of all skill levels are encouraged to participate, with an attempt being made to evenly weight the combined experience level of each team.

When competition day arrives, each team is paired with a professional horse trainer, and they begin their preparation with a group clinic to go over the basics of the horsemanship class and the pattern they will be riding.

Each team is made up of past and current armed service members and their families, then paired with a professional horse trainer. Teams are evenly weighted by riding experience. Photo by Heather Glazer

From there, it’s time for the teams and their trainers to get down to business. The remainder of the afternoon leading up to showtime is spent meeting their mounts and learning how to translate the dots and dashes on their pattern sheet into a display of communication with their equine partners.

Though the spirit of competition is decidedly in the air, the opportunity for fellowship HHC provides for service members and their families is profoundly valuable. The military lifestyle comes with its own unique challenges, and the events surrounding competition day provide a venue for a wider portion of that community to come together. This can be especially beneficial for those who are no longer active duty.

“Events like HHC are so important because they provide validation,” says Army Lieutenant Colonel Kaylee Bandy. “Too often, our veterans feel stripped of their identity when they transition out of the military, and this same sense of loss affects their families as well. Military service provides deep personal connections and mutual understanding through experience. Much of that can feel lost to an entire family when a Warfighter transitions out of uniform—and the emotional, psychological, and physical effects can feel isolating and overwhelming. Programs like HHC are so much more than a head nod to our Warfighters. They’re platforms for genuine connection, shared experience, and public celebration of those who volunteer to keep our nation safe.”

Family members of veterans and active service members are invited to participate as well. Photo by Heather Glazer

Joe Conwell, a 2024 HHC competitor who spent 28 years in the Army National Guard, agrees.

“It’s a day out with people going through (or having gone through) similar situations in life, and a chance to have discussions, cheer each other on, and see the smiles on each other’s faces,” he says. “The camaraderie, competition, and support touch so many different aspects of what everybody’s going through and gives them a positive push to keep moving forward.”

Healing Through Horses

Although there are many programs geared toward honoring and strengthening the mental and physical wellbeing of our active duty military members and veterans, there’s something special about those like HHC that harness the therapeutic power of riding and interacting with horses.

“Horses hold no judgment, no preconceived notion,” says Bandy. “They don’t know their rider’s history of trauma, failures, guilt, anxiety, or fears. The relationship between our participants and their horses is unflawed and genuine.” 

Multi-year HHC competitor and 25-year retired Chief Navy Diver Michael Suzuki had very little experience with horses when he was introduced to the event by his niece. Though he was nervous during the first ride, Suzuki quickly learned that working through the pattern with his equine partner was a welcome escape. 

“When I ride, I’m not thinking about anything else, just me and that horse,” he says. “I’m still new at it, so it takes my full concentration—but that’s a good thing. It’s a stress, but a good stress.”

Retired Chief Navy Diver Michael Suzuki had very little experience with horses when he was introduced to the event by his niece. Photo by Cody Parmenter Photography

That mental focus is especially important for service men and women who have spent time on the frontlines.

“Someone who’s been in the combat zone basically remembers things from it almost 24 hours a day,” says Conwell. “When you’re multitasking and concentrating on getting a horse through the pattern, it puts that external input from your past to the side. It releases your brain for the amount of time you’re communicating with the horse.”

Teamwork is the foundation of many duties and operations within each branch of the military, so participants also find they’re able to apply the principles they use to tackle work-related tasks to something that feels much lighter.

“You’re doing the same process of working together to come up with an outcome, but it has absolutely nothing to do with military green suits, guns, and all of that,” says Conwell. “It relieves you of the military output, but you’re still doing the same things you’re trained to do.”

Completing their pattern in front of the cheering crowd also instills a sense of pride, accomplishment, and confidence in participants.

“Getting out there and doing their best on a regional stage, surrounded by seasoned professionals and industry champions, infuses our riders with confidence and satisfaction,” says Bandy. “They dismount holding their head a little higher and standing a little taller. They prove to themselves that they can do hard things, and that they’re worthy and deserving of joy and hope after hardship.”

Assembling the Ranks

Many members of the equine industry come together to make the Heroes Horsemanship Challenge happen, including professional trainers, the owners of the horses used in competition, and the Georgia Quarter Horse Association.

Various sponsors also graciously give monetarily or donate auction items to help cover the cost of a dinner for those in attendance, Harris jackets for every participant, and prizes such as belt buckles for the winners. Remaining proceeds from the event are given directly to Folds of Honor, an organization that provides scholarships to families of fallen and disabled service members and first responders.

Members of the winning team are presented with a prize. Photo by Heather Glazer

For the trainers who coach each team, the experience has proven to be both humbling and rewarding.

“All of the trainers have a good time,” says professional horseman Carey Ready, whose team won the 2024 HHC. “It was a time to let down in the middle of a busy show—a fun thing. So it’s good for us too. It really helps us keep perspective in life, not just the horse industry.”

Trainer Carey Ready coached the winning team in 2024. Photo by Heather Glazer

“It’s really humbling for us,” adds trainer Duke Williams. “This is something I would do every time I possibly could because it makes us feel a little better too. That we did something, gave something. At the end of the day, it’s still not enough.”

The positive aspects of events like HHC aren’t limited to what the participants glean from taking part. As service members and their families gather each year, the horse industry inevitably adds new faces to its ranks. Several trainers recalled team members becoming new horse owners after their experience with HHC, and most participants feel they’ve found a new community to be a part of.

“After I participated, it changed my whole perspective,” says Suzuki. “It made me more interested in the horse industry and learning more about it. Now when I hear ‘horses,’ I talk too.”

2024 competitor Joe Conwell (in red) presented event coordinator Jake Hartman with a flag flown while he was serving in Kuwait. Photo by Heather Glazer

In future, the HHC team hopes to add an additional event at a different show and venue so they can honor even more individuals and their families who have made sacrifices to protect and serve our country.

“As veterans and members of the horse industry, it’s a privilege to be able to pair our patriotism with our passion while serving our brothers and sisters,” says Bandy. “They’re the protectors of our peace and represent less than 1 percent of the American population. It’s not lost on the HHC team that the sovereignty of the United States was mostly won on horseback. This is truly a ‘thank you’ to both horse and rider.”

Visit heroeshorsemanshipchallenge.com for more information about the Heroes Horsemanship Challenge, how to become a participant, and sponsorship opportunities.

This article appeared in the May/June 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post The Heroes Horsemanship Challenge appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The 2026 FEI World Championships will be hosted in Aachen from August 11–23, 2026, featuring six major equestrian disciplines: show jumping, dressage, para dressage, eventing, driving, and vaulting. This prestigious event, held at the historical Aachener Soers grounds, will showcase world-class sport, and will attract around 350,000 spectators. 

Show jumping at the CHIO Aachen. Photo by Amber Heintzberger

In the summer of 2024, my horse-obsessed, then 15-year-old daughter Emily and I ventured to Aachen to experience the CHIO. We were already in Germany visiting my in-laws near Warendorf, and I had attended the CHIO a number of times as an equine journalist and wanted Emily to see behind the scenes at one of the greatest horse events in the world.  

We stayed at the home of longtime friends who live in Aachen and were incredibly gracious hosts. My friend Heidi lives upstairs from her mom, Gerlinde, who put us up in a spare bedroom and laid out a spread of fresh baked goods from the bakery, along with coffee, cheese and fruit every morning before we set off for the Soers. 

We arrived on Thursday afternoon, and with cameras and notebooks in hand, we parked our rental car, collected our media credentials and scoped out the media center. Emily was excited about the fact that Lindt, a major sponsor of the CHIO, provides an abundant supply of chocolate to keep members of the media happy. She was also starstruck when we met Esme Higgs, who was working on social media for the event. 

First we set off to explore the competition grounds. We briefly browsed the trade fair, had a little snack of pommes frites (delicious French fries), and then headed for the main stadium. One of the original structures at the Soers, the stadium was expanded for the World Equestrian Games in 2006. The atmosphere is awe-inspiring, and we had arrived in time so that we could photograph the Nations Cup from inside the stadium. Photographers must stay in the photo pens, and vying for a good spot in the pack of photographers can be a challenge during the more popular events. Once you’re in place, you’re also committed to staying in the pen for the duration of the evening, so it’s best to visit the restrooms and have a snack and a drink handy. 

Standing in the middle of the stadium, under the bright lights, with the stands filled with spectators, right in the middle of the action, is an unforgettable experience. Some of the world’s best horses and riders galloping and jumping huge fences, right up close, and the entire stadium vibrating with rhythmic applause of thousands of fans, is electrifying to the senses. Team Ireland won the Nations Cup and their celebratory mood reverberated through the grounds as spectators headed to the party tents to celebrate with beer and champagne. 

It was a late night, but we were back early the next morning to catch the eventing dressage, with eventing show jumping taking place later that afternoon. Once again we positioned ourselves in the stadium for some good photo opportunities, chatting with fellow eventing journalist Tilly Berendt, who was over from the U.K., between horses. After years of working in equestrian journalism, the chance to catch up with colleagues is always a highlight of attending major competitions. Photographers Shannon Brinkman, official photographer of the US Equestrian Team, and her daughter Roya, and New Zealander Libby Law were just a couple of the other friend/colleagues that I enjoyed seeing over the weekend. 

Victory gallop at the CHIO Aachen. Photo by Amber Heintzberger

I also wanted to show Emily around the city of Aachen, so we left shortly after the eventing wrapped up and found dinner at a restaurant in one of the cobbled alleys in the pedestrian zone near the Aachen Cathedral, a World Heritage site. Shops around the city decorate their windows with CHIO-themes and we enjoyed looking at these as we wandered around. We also stopped in the Nobis shop for a little bag of Aachener Printen, a sweet and spicy gingerbread-type cookie that is a local specialty. 

Saturday for us meant an early morning of Grand Prix dressage, followed by one of the highlights of the weekend, the eventing cross-country. We wandered around the course, watching some of the more interesting combinations including the main water complex, and nibbling from a bag of assorted Haribo gummy candies from one of the vendors on course. We finished up inside the stadium to capture the excitement of the top finishers clearing the final fence and crossing the finish line — a dramatic photo opportunity as this was the final phase of the event. 

The individual win went to Germany’s Julia Krajewski riding Nickel 21 and the cheers from the home crowd reverberated through the stadium as Krajewski took a victory canter. Great Britain won the team competition followed by the USA and Ireland, respectively.  

Of course we also had to have a wander through the trade fair, where many high-end brands of tack and equestrian apparel are available at special prices. Emily was on a mission to buy a certain popular brand of sun shirt, and I bought a few gifts for friends back home. We met up with Emily’s cousin Jana, who proudly showed off her new collection of matching saddle pads and ear bonnets.  

Saturday evening is a popular time for the general public to visit the CHIO to shop, partake in food and beverages, and socialize. The party atmosphere was fun, but we opted for a quiet dinner at a Chinese restaurant in downtown Aachen with our hosts. You can only handle so much excitement before you start to run out of steam, and we wanted to have a good night of sleep so that we could enjoy the final day of the CHIO. 

On Sunday morning we headed to the Deutsche Bank stadium for the final dressage competition. The Lindt Prize, the Grand Prix Freestyle, was won by the Queen of Aachen herself, Isabell Werth riding Wendy de Fontaine. It was Werth’s 15th time winning this class and the crowd was appropriately enthusiastic during her victory gallop.  

Isabell Werth salutes the crowd aboard Wendy de Fontaine after winning the Lindt Prize, the Grand Prix Freestyle. This marked Werth’s 15th time winning this class. Photo by Amber Heintzberger

Following the elaborate prize-giving, we once again headed to the main stadium. The highlight of the final day is the Grand Prix Show Jumping competition, part of the Rolex Grand Slam that also includes Spruce Meadows, Geneva and ‘S-Hertogenbosch.  

The Grand Prix was not only one of the Majors of the Grand Slam, but a chance for some of the best riders in the world to fine-tune their performances in the lead-up to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. The year marked a number of momentous anniversaries for the iconic equestrian venue, as they not only celebrated 100 years of history, but also 25 years with Rolex as the main sponsor.   

Starting in reverse order based on the results from the first round, American rider McLain Ward, who was tenth to go, jumped the first double clear of the class and put pressure on the remaining riders in the second round. Out of those riders, only Switzerland’s Martin Fuchs, Germany’s André Thieme – the individual 2021 FEI Jumping European Champion – and World No. 10 Richard Vogel progressed to the jump-off. 

Ward, the two-time Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major winner, jumped around the shortened course clear in a time of 41.02 seconds. Fuchs was almost two seconds faster, but it was not meant to be as the penultimate fence fell. The crowds exploded with cheers as Thieme then took the lead in a time of 39.77 seconds, with just one left to go. It looked as if the final competitor, Vogel, would claim his second Major as he crossed the line over one second faster than his fellow citizen, but heartbreakingly the final fence fell, handing the victory to Thieme. 

André Thieme celebrates the win. Photo by Amber Heintzberger

The nail-biting competition was followed by the Farewell of Nations, when competitors representing their various countries and disciplines all come together in the main stadium for a gigantic farewell party. Every year the CHIO chooses a partner country and bases the theme of their festivities around that country’s culture. The 2024 partner country happened to be the USA, and the theme featured heavily in the opening ceremonies, which we watched on TV before our arrival at the show.  

The closing ceremonies feature all of the nations that participated in the competition, with participants from every sport taking part. Show jumpers, dressage horses, eventers, and even the four-in-hand driving competitors’ parade around the arena with their riders and drivers, with a flag bearer leading the way and competitors waving white handkerchiefs, a tradition that includes spectators, who wave back from the grandstands to the sounds of the German folk song “Muss I denn zum Städtele hinaus.” Another CHIO concluded, and Emily and I wandered around the quiet grounds one last time, stopping for a celebratory toast before heading home. Because shops in Germany are closed on Sundays, I asked one of the vendors if I could purchase a small potted flower to give to our hosts, and he kindly gave it to me with a smile.  

The crowd celebrates the Farewell of Nations. Photo by Amber Heintzberger

Because it was a late evening, we stayed over one more night and enjoyed one final wonderful breakfast from the local bakery, and had a short walk around the neighborhood. On the way back to the Warendorf area we stopped in Cologne to stretch our legs and took a short tour of the cathedral there. It was an exciting week and we were left happy to have enjoyed so much top equestrian sport and German culture. 

A Visitors’ Guide to the CHIO Achen

The CHIO Aachen is a huge destination event, and accommodations book quickly. An American friend who lives in Germany is planning to attend in the summer of 2026 and accommodations were already booked up months in advance. She was able to find an Airbnb in the Belgian countryside, driving distance from the Soers — the showgrounds where the CHIO is held.  

Purchase your tickets in advance. The really popular events sell out — yes, even dressage — and if there’s an event you really want to see, you’ll need to reserve tickets sooner than later.  

Wear comfortable clothing. People do tend to dress nicely for a day out at the CHIO, but you want to make sure that you are comfortable to walk long distances. Dressing in layers is also recommended — even summertime can be rainy and chilly, and while it’s fun to shop for new clothes in the extensive trade fair, it’s less fun to sit in the stands freezing and then spend a lot of money on a sweatshirt because it’s the first thing you can grab during a 15-minute break. Ask me how I know!  

Bring your appetite. The food offerings at the CHIO are extensive, and you can find everything from sushi and Thai stir fry to traditional German fare like currywurst, pretzels, pommes frites (French fries), and sandwiches. Alcohol flows freely in the evenings — be sure to return your glass to get a refund of the small deposit — and there are also plenty of non-alcoholic options. The riders tend to congregate at the Riders’ Bar on the ground floor of the grandstand near the gate to the main stadium. You’re also sure to spot a few familiar, famous equestrians strolling around the grounds.  

Horses have the right-of-way. While there is traffic control, be alert that pedestrians need to stop and wait for horses crossing at junctions of the horse paths and pedestrian walkways.  

Bring your spending money. The trade fair is not to be taken for granted: from apparel and tack to housewares and gift items, to luxury horse boxes and vehicles, the trade fair boasts something for everyone, on every budget. And be sure to grab a few souvenirs from the gift shop — you’ll really impress your friends at the barn when you show up wearing a shirt or baseball cap from Aachen. 

Pace yourself. With so much to see and do, you might be tempted to try to do it all. Better to pick a few special events and enjoy those, and give yourself time for the trade fair, food vendors, and just to stroll around and soak up the atmosphere. There are also a number of entertaining performances in the main stadium featuring different breeds, demonstrations of various horses, and costumed horses and riders performing purely for entertainment. 

This article about a visit to the CHIO Aachen is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post A Visit to the CHIO Aachen  appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo by Wirestock/Adobe Stock

Do you have your Derby horse yet? If not, join us as we take a look at each horse in the 2026 Kentucky Derby field so that you can confidently make your pick. Listed below is an overview of each horse entered to run in this year’s Run for the Roses (in post position order), along with quick information regarding their connections, morning line odds, and race record.

The 2025 Kentucky Derby Field

1. Renegade (4-1)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Jockey: Irad Ortiz, Jr.
Owner: Robert Low, Lawana Low, and Repole Stable
Race Record: 5 starts: 2 wins, 2 seconds, 1 third
Career Earnings: $1,031,500

Although Renegade is the morning-line favorite, the rail is just about the last post position anyone could want for a field as big as the Kentucky Derby. Runaway winner of the Arkansas Derby (G1) last out, Renegade seems to have blossomed into an immensely talented 3-year-old. As long as he gets a smooth break and doesn’t have too much traffic trouble with his rail post, he has the right running style for the Derby and certainly has the talent to best this field. But he will have a lot to overcome with this post position.

2. Albus (30-1)
Trainer: Riley Mott
Jockey: Manuel Franco
Owner: Pin Oak Stud LLC
Race Record: 4 starts: 2 wins, 0 seconds, 1 third
Career Earnings: $436,288

The Derby may appear to be a big leap for Albus, but that’s nothing new for him, as he won the Wood Memorial Stakes (G2) just after breaking his maiden in impressive fashion. He also is versatile about his running style, which is a huge advantage in a race like the Derby where things may play out entirely different than your average race. This will obviously require Albus’s best effort yet, but he may be worth a look as your long shot.

3. Intrepido (50-1)
Trainer: Jeff Mullins
Jockey: Hector Isaac Berrios
Owner: Dutch Girl Holdings LLC and Irving Ventures LLC
Race Record: 6 starts: 2 wins, 1 second, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $342,800

Intrepido hasn’t won a race since the American Pharoah Stakes (G1) as a 2-year-old last October; in fact the only time he’s finished in the money was two starts back with a second-place finish in the Robert B. Lewis Stakes (G3). It would be quite the surprise if this colt managed a big run in the Derby.

4. Litmus Test (30-1)
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Jockey: Martin Garcia
Owner: SF Racing, LLC, Starlight Racing, Madaket Stables, LLC, Stonestreet Stables, LLC, et. al.
Race Record: 7 starts: 2 wins, 0 seconds, 2 thirds
Career Earnings: $477,688

Another horse that hasn’t won since he was a 2-year-old, Litmus Test was a distant seventh last out in the Arkansas Derby (G1) against several of these rivals. This is another horse that would be quite the upset.

5. Right to Party: SCRATCHED

6. Commandment (6-1)
Trainer: Brad Cox
Jockey: Luis Saez
Owner: Wathnan Racing
Race Record: 5 starts: 4 wins, 0 seconds, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $1,017,339

Commandment has some of the lowest morning-line odds in the field for good reason. The son of Into Mischief has won four straight races, including the Fountain of Youth Stakes (G2) and Florida Derby (G1). He also already has a win over the Churchill Downs surface, and has a flexible running style that should benefit him in the Derby. Commandment may be the most dangerous horse in the race.

7. Danon Bourbon (20-1)
Trainer: Manabu Ikezoe
Jockey: Atsuya Nishimura
Owner: Danox Co. Ltd.
Race Record: 3 starts: 3 wins, 0 seconds, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $222,762

One of two Japanese horses in the Derby, Danon Bourbon is undefeated in three starts — which he’s won by a combined 18 1/2 lengths. It’s always a significant ask for an international horse to overcome the hurdles of traveling this far and running on a new surface — and in a new direction, for that matter. However, Japan came very close to winning this race with Forever Young in 2024, a horse that has continued to prove his prowess on United States soil. It’s quite the unknown if Danon Bourbon is anywhere near Forever Young’s level, but he’s clearly talented and deserves the chance to prove himself.

8. So Happy (15-1)
Trainer: Mark Glatt
Jockey: Mike Smith
Owner: Norman Stables LLC and Saints or Sinners
Race Record: 4 starts: 3 wins, 0 seconds, 1 third
Career Earnings: $480,000

Winner of the Santa Anita Derby (G1), So Happy seems like the strongest threat from California. He turned in a career-best speed figure in that effort, and if he runs to that level, that puts him with the best of them here. He has some questions to answer, but So Happy is certainly worth a look.

9. The Puma: SCRATCHED

10. Wonder Dean (30-1)
Trainer: Daisuke Takayanagi
Jockey: Ryusei Sakai
Owner: Yoshinari Yamamoto
Race Record: 6 starts: 2 wins, 2 seconds, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $770,541

The other Japanese horse in the race, Wonder Dean enters here off a strong win in the UAE Derby (G2). He’s not been quite as dominant as Danon Bourbon, but he has traveled internationally (and raced counter-clockwise) and won. One thing is for sure about Wonder Dean: the 1 1/4-mile distance won’t be an issue.

11. Incredibolt (20-1)
Trainer: Riley Mott
Jockey: Jaime Torres
Owner: Pin Oak Stud LLC
Race Record: 5 starts: 3 wins, 0 seconds, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $498,681

A 4-length winner of the Virginia Derby in his most recent start, Incredibolt won two races at Churchill Downs as a 2-year-old, including the Street Sense Stakes (G3). However, his speed figures are quite a bit lower than most other horses here, so it would require Incredibolt’s strongest effort yet so surpass this field.

12. Chief Wallabee (8-1)
Trainer: Bill Mott
Jockey: Junior Alvarado
Owner: Mike Ball and Katherine Ball
Race Record: 3 starts: 1 win, 1 second, 1 third
Career Earnings: $216,600

Chief Wallabee has caught the attention of many with his morning training, appearing to be rounding into top form. Though he has only won at the maiden level, he’s never been more than a half-length behind the winner — an impressive feat considering his only two other races are the Fountain of Youth Stakes (G2) and Florida Derby (G1). However, he finished behind Commandment in both, so it would be impressive for him to get around that colt.

13. Silent Tactic: SCRATCHED

14. Potente (20-1)
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Jockey: Juan Hernandez
Owner: Speedway Stables LLC
Race Record: 3 starts: 2 wins, 1 second, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $262,000

Though Potente won the San Felipe Stakes (G2) two back, he was swallowed up in the stretch of the Santa Anita Derby (G1) by So Happy. He may be bred for the distance, but does he want it?

15. Emerging Market (15-1)
Trainer: Chad Brown
Jockey: Flavien Prat
Owner: Klaravich Stables, Inc.
Race Record: 2 starts: 2 wins, 0 seconds, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $618,880

Although he’s only raced twice, Emerging Market has won both of those starts, including the Louisiana Derby (G2). Without a doubt, he has the pedigree to get the Derby distance, is training remarkably well, and he has talent. That said, the Kentucky Derby against 19 of the other best 3-year-olds in the country is a big ask for a horse in just his third start.

16. Pavlovian (30-1)
Trainer: Doug O’Neill
Jockey: Edwin Maldonado
Owner: Reddam Racing LLC
Race Record: 10 starts: 2 wins, 4 seconds, 1 third
Career Earnings: $613,450

Pavlovian may be by far the most experienced horse in the field with 10 starts, but he has won only once and has primarily raced against state-bred company. He has no graded stakes wins to his credit  — though he was just a head behind when second in the Louisiana Derby (G2) behind Emerging Market. Pavlovian appears to be outclassed on paper.

17. Six Speed (50-1)
Trainer: Bhupat Seemar
Jockey: Brian Hernandez, Jr.
Owner: Brunetti Dugan Stables, Black Type Thoroughbreds, Steve Adkisson, Swinbank Stables
Race Record: 5 starts: 3 wins, 1 second, 1 third
Career Earnings: $402,183

Dubai-based Six Speed was soundly defeated by Wonder Dean in the UAE Derby (G2), though he himself had been a strong group stakes winner prior to then. That loss also came after a bit of time off, but Six Speed would be a huge upset here.

18. Further Ado (6-1)
Trainer: Brad Cox
Jockey: John Velazquez
Owner: Spendthrift Farm LLC
Race Record: 6 starts: 3 wins, 1 second, 1 third
Career Earnings: $1,146,328

An impressive 11-length winner of the Blue Grass Stakes (G1) last out, Further Ado is no stranger to a romp. He broke his maiden at Keeneland by an incredible 20 lengths as a 2-year-old, just before winning the Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes (G2) at Churchill Downs. Like his stablemate Commandment, Further Ado is one of the most formidable horses in the Derby.

19. Golden Tempo (30-1)
Trainer: Cherie DeVaux
Jockey: Jose Ortiz
Owner: Phipps Stable and St. Elias Stable
Race Record: 4 starts: 2 wins, 0 seconds, 2 thirds
Career Earnings: $333,000

Golden Tempo enters here off two losses — most recently third in the Louisiana Derby (G2) behind Emerging Market and Pavlovian — but he was previously the winner of the Lecomte Stakes (G3). His speed figures are quite lower than most rivals here, and he looks likely to go off at pretty high odds.

20. Fulleffort: SCRATCHED

21. Great White (50-1)
Trainer: John Ennis
Jockey: Alex Achard
Owner: Three Chimneys Farm and John Ennis
Race Record: 4 starts: 2 wins, 0 seconds, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $202,495

Despite enough scratches to draw in, Great White will likely go off as one of the longest shots in the field. He was a distant fifth behind Further Ado in the Blue Grass Stakes (G1), and has otherwise not faced the strongest competition.

22. Ocelli (50-1)
Trainer: D. Whitworth Beckman
Jockey: Joe Ramos
Owner: Ashley Durr, Anthony Tate and Front Page Equestrian, LLC
Race Record: 6 starts: 0 wins, 1 second, 3 thirds
Career Earnings: $109,800

Because of two scratches, Ocelli has also made it into the field, but he’s likely to see extremely high odds. The colt has never won a race in six starts, and has lost to several of the Derby runners.

23. Robusta (50-1)
Trainer: Doug O’Neill
Jockey: Cristian Torres
Owner: Calumet Farm
Race Record: 5 starts: 1 win, 1 second, 0 thirds
Career Earnings: $83,500

Robusta was a soundly defeated seventh in the Santa Anita Derby (G1). He’s drawn in with the third scratch, but it’s unlikely for him to make much of a dent.

Let us know in the comments here, or on Facebook (Horse Illustrated) or Instagram (@horseillustrated) who your 2026 Kentucky Derby pick is! Click here to subscribe to Horse Illustrated.

The post 2026 Kentucky Derby: Make Your Pick appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Another day of brilliant sun made for a lovely picture as the 23 riders remaining in the 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5* division attempted to keep the poles up. The time was very doable, with eight pairs jumping double clear.  

It came down to a nail-biter indeed, with 2024’s CCI4*-winning pair, Will Coleman (USA) and 14-year-old Hosteiner gelding Diabolo adding just 0.8 time faults during their show jumping round to guarantee no worse than second on a 28.1.  

Overnight leader Monica Spencer (NZL) and the 15-year-old New Zealand-bred Thoroughbred gelding Artist were sitting on a 22.3, with one rail and some time in hand. But it was not to be their day; in the end, three very expensive rails down knocked them to seventh place, ensuring the first Kentucky 5* win for an American since Tamie Smith in 2023. (The winner receives $130,000, while seventh place receives $10,000.) 

“This is the event that every American eventing rider wants to win,” said Coleman. “It’s my favorite place to ride in the whole world. I’ve dreamed about it, but now that it’s here, it feels surreal. I’m blessed to ride this horse and have the people who made this possible for someone like me—my family, the owners, coaches. So many people have been a part of this horse’s journey.” 

Will Coleman and Diabolo clear the final jump of the 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event. Photo by Mary Cage

Coleman became just the second rider to have won both the Cosequin Lexington CCI4* and Defender Kentucky CCI5* — the first having been Tamie Smith earlier in the day when she won the CCI4*. But having won the CCI4* with Diabolo previously, he became the first rider to win both divisions on the same horse.

“It is a surreal feeling, something I think we all dream about,” Coleman said. It’s one of the hardest things to do — certainly one of the hardest in equestrian sport. I sort of feel like we all deserve the win … Today I feel extremely lucky.”

Will Coleman and Diabolo on their victory lap. Photo by Mary Cage

Moving up from third to second was another American rider, Caroline Pamukcu, on 11-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding HSH Blake. They went double-clear to finish on a score of 28.6. The pair previously competed at the 2024 Paris Olympics, finishing 36th individually.  

“Blake today really helped me a lot — all the kudos goes to him,” Pamukcu said. “He’s such a special horse and really made up everywhere that I lacked.”

Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake had a double-clear round. Photo by Mary Cage

British rider David Doel moved from fourth to third, also with a double-clear round, riding 15-year-old KWPN gelding Galileo Nieuwmoed (sounds like “new mood”). This horse was primed for such a performance, having finished on the podium twice in his 12 previous CCI5* events on both sides of the Atlantic.  

“It’s been absolutely magic,” Doel reflected. “I’m very lucky; I’ve got a very cool horse. As a team we came together, learned from past mistakes. He gave me a super ride all three days.”

David Doel and Galileo Nieuwmoed moved up into third after a double-clear round in the show jumping phase. Photo by Mary Cage

Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S 

In the final phase of the CCI4*, overnight leader Tamie Smith (USA) entered the arena aboard Lillet 3 with a rail and some time cushion in hand, but as it turned out, she didn’t need it. Smith was the only rider to make the show jumping optimum time out of 31 horses in the division, keeping a cool head under pressure—not surprising, given her history in the CCI5*. 

Speaking on the optimum time in the final phase, Smith said, “It didn’t seem achievable, but [Lillet] is so cool. She’s so fast.” 

Tamie Smith and Lillet 3 on their way to the CCI4* win. Photo by Mary Cage

This also moves Smith into the lead of the recently launched US Equestrian Open standings, which offers $1 million in prize money across a series of annual events.  

“It’s new to our country; I went into it thinking I might have a shot,” she said. “You just hope that it goes your way.” 

It’s now just a matter of waiting 361 days until the start of 2027’s “Best Weekend All Year.” We’ll see you there! 

2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5*-L Final Results

1. William Coleman (USA) and Diabolo (28.1)
2. Caroline Pamukcu (USA) and HSH Blake (28.6)
3. David Doel (GBR) and Galileo Nieuwmoed (30.8)
4. Tim Price (NZL) and Vitali (33.0)
5. Tom McEwen (GBR) and Brookfield Quality (33.1)
6. Boyd Martin (USA) and Commando 3 (34.2)
7. Monica Spencer (NZL) and Artist (36.7)
8. Phillip Dutton (USA) and Possante (37.7)
9. Emily Hamel (USA) and Corvett (40.9)
10. Sophia Hill (AUS) and Humble Glory (41.1)

2026 Cosequin® Lexington CCI4*-S Final Results

1. Tamie Smith (USA) and Lillet 3 (31.3)
2. Will Coleman (USA) and Very Dignified (37.4)
3. Mia Farley (USA) and Invictus (38.3)
4. Sharon White (USA) and Claus 63 (41.3)
5. Will Coleman (USA) and Fahrenheit Addict (43.3)
6. Isabelle Bosley (USA) and Conner (44.8)
7. Isabelle Cook (GBR) and Cymoon “F” Z (48.1)
8. Sydney Elliott (USA) and QC Diamantaire (48.7)
9. Dan Kreitl (USA) and Carmango (49.2)
10. Lauren Nicholson (USA) and Landmark’s Jungle’s Gold (50.0)

Find all of our coverage on our 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event landing page.

Thanks to CareCredit for our 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event coverage.

The post 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event Results and Recap: Will Coleman & Diabolo Win for USA appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Under idyllic sunny skies with firm ground after a cloudy morning, the 11:05 optimum time turned out to be a challenge to make over Derek di Grazia’s CCI5*-L cross-country course. On the best day of “The Best Weekend All Year,” four horses out of 29 starters made the time with double-clear rounds. 

One of those was Monica Spencer (NZL) aboard the 15-year-old New Zealand-bred Thoroughbred, Artist (aka “Max”). This horse pulls off a rare feat indeed for a Thoroughbred, combining spectacular movement and suspension that put him on top after the dressage phase with an enormous, ground-gobbling racehorse stride on the cross-country course.  

“He felt good; he has such a great gallop that allows me to take my time at the jumps,” said Spencer. When asked about her horse’s chances at winning after all is said and done in the show jumping phase tomorrow, she added, “I’m just happy to be where I am on day two—but the podium’s the dream, so we’ll try to stay there!” 

Monica Spencer (NZL) and Artist went double-clear over the cross-country course to head to show jumping on their dressage score. Photo by Mary Cage

In second place going into the final phase is Will Coleman (USA) on the 14-year-old Holsteiner gelding Diabolo, who had one of the other rare double-clear rounds of the day, moving them up from fifth after dressage. Diabolo is famously known as Coleman’s wife Katie’s favorite horse in the barn, where she pampers him with a pint of blueberries in his feed every day.  

“I thought [Diabolo] was just sensational. I thought he was magical today. It was his first go at this level and I was just overjoyed with him.” Coleman said. Reflecting on how the course rode, he added, “I thought it was a very challenging track when I walked it. I thought the time would be hard enough to get. Everything to me rode as I envisioned it. I thought the horses were having a hard time reading the coffin. It was very hard to get the horses to settle on the line.”

Will Coleman (USA) and Diabolo were one of the few horse-and-rider pairs to go double-clear. Photo by Mary Cage

In third after a nail-biting wait to see if a devastating penalty for hitting a flag would be taken off following the final ride of the day was Caroline Pamukcu (USA) on HSH Blake. Looking full of run, the horse notched just two time penalties. Thanks to having her flag penalty challenge vindicated, Pamukcu moved up one slot from fourth after dressage. She is such a fan of this eye-catching 11-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding that she named her firstborn daughter Blake after the horse! 

“Blake is, like, my best friend so it’s just great to go out again around another five star,” Pamukcu said. “He was amazing. He was perfect even when I wasn’t.”

Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake moved into third after a strong run on cross-country. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

David Doel (GBR) and Galileo Nieuwmoed showed an impressive leap from 12th to fourth place after spotting the very first double-clear round of the day.  

Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S 

In the CCI4*, 42 pairs set out on course, with a much shorter 6-minute optimum time. It must have been a big ask, however, as none of the pairs made the time, even with the perfect weather and firm footing. 

Notching the fewest time faults with just 1.6, Tamra Smith (USA) and Lillet 3 moved up from 3rd into the lead. Smith retired her mount Danito, who was in first after dressage, after some unfortunate difficulty at fence 10C. 

“[Lillet 3] went out and it was like being on a little race car. I had a great time,” Smith said. When asked about how the mare handled the course, Smith continued to praise her. “She was super and answered all the questions great. She has such an elegance about her.”

Tamie Smith and Lillet 3 came away with the lead after cross-country. Photo by Jen Emig/MacMillan Photography

Moving up from seventh to second after cross-country were Will Coleman (USA) and Very Dignified after they added a relatively small 4.4 time penalties to their score.  

Rounding out the Saturday podium, Mia Farley (USA) and Invictus leapt from 11th to third under the difficult optimum time, adding just 5.6 penalties. 

Join us tomorrow to see who can keep the poles in the cups to take home the big checks! 

2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5*-L Standings After Cross-Country

1. Monica Spencer (NZL) and Artist (22.3)
2. Will Coleman (USA) and Diabolo (27.3)
3. Caroline Pamukcu (USA) and HSH Blake (28.6)
4. David Doel (GBR) and Galileo Nieuwmoed (30.8)
5. Tim Price (NZL) and Vitali (31.8)
6. Tom McEwen (GBR) and Brookfield Quality (33.1)
7. Boyd Martin (USA) and Commando 3 (34.2)
8. Harry Meade (GBR) and Superstition (36.2)
9. Sophia Hill (AUS) and Humble Glory (37.1)
10. Phillip Dutton (USA) and Possante (37.7)

2026 Cosequin® Lexington CCI4*-S Standings After Cross-Country

1. Tamie Smith (USA) and Lillet 3 (31.3)
2. Will Coleman (USA) and Very Dignified (35.8)
3. Mia Farley (USA) and Invictus (37.9)
4. Dan Kreitl (USA) and Carmango (38.4)
5. Sharon White (USA) and Claus 63 (40.1)
6. Katie Lichten (USA) and Hickstead Musterd (40.4)
7. Will Coleman (USA) and Fahrenheit Addict (41.7)
8. Isabelle Cook (GBR) and Cymoon “F” Z (42.5)
9. Jessica Phoenix (CAN) and Fluorescent Adolescent (43.5)
10. Isabelle Bosley (USA) and Conner (44.0)

For complete dressage scores and updates about the event, visit www.kentuckythreedayevent.com.

Find all of our coverage on our 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event landing page.

Thanks to CareCredit for our 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event coverage.

The post 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event: Cross-Country Day appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The warm temperatures and mostly sunny skies continued on day two of dressage at the 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event. Though the weather remained largely the same, the tests in the ring caused some big shake-ups on the leaderboard. Most notably, Monica Spencer (NZL) aboard the New Zealand-bred Thoroughbred Artist marked a 22.3, breaking into the top ten dressage scores ever posted at the Kentucky Three-Day Event — just one year after Michael Jung set a new record of 18.6.

“‘Max’ was super today — had good energy on the test,” Spencer said. “I’m really pleased with him.”

Now 15, Monica has had “Max” since he was four. She spoke to the stereotype surrounding Thoroughbreds in eventing, and why Max is the right mount for her.

“In cross-country, it’s always nice to be on a fast horse. In the dressage, I’m lucky with Max that he’s a beautiful mover and he’s always been very trainable,” Spencer said. “I enjoy riding him in the dressage and I have had a few good Thoroughbreds over the years that have been good at dressage … I am particularly lucky with the way Max moves; he’s quite an expressive horse for a Thoroughbred. He likes to throw his front hooves around and he did that today.”

Monica Spencer and Artist gained the lead with a beautiful 22.3. Photo by Mary Cage

Just barely behind Spencer with a 22.6, World #4 eventing rider Tim Price — previously third overall with Global Quest on the first day of dressage — dazzled the judges with 16-year-old Holsteiner gelding Vitali. Price now enters cross-country day with two horses in the top ten.

“I was really happy with him,” Price said. “He’s such a great craftsman and he’s got such a great body and mind for the job.”

Tim Price and Vitali sit narrowly behind Monica Spencer, scoring a 22.6. Photo by Mary Cage

Top-five finisher in the last three editions of the Kentucky Three-Day Event, including two runner-up finishes, Tom McEwen broke into the top three after dressage with a 25.1 aboard the 17-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding Brookfield Quality. McEwen and Brookfield Quality finished fifth in this event last year, and look poised for another top finish.

“I’m delighted with ‘Norris’ as usual,” McEwen said. “He does everything he can and formed another pretty much foot-perfect, sort of “clear round” like we call it. So delighted — thought we put everything out there and he couldn’t have given me more so I’m thrilled.”

Tom McEwen and Brookfield Quality look to continue McEwen’s streak of top finishes at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event. Photo by Mary Cage

The final horse-and-rider pair to go, Caroline Pamukcu (USA) and HSH Blake continued the trend of changing the leaderboard. With a 26.6, Pamukcu secured a place in fourth going into cross-country, pushing previous leader Will Coleman (USA, with Diabolo) into fifth.

Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake prove their partnership with a 26.6. Photo by Mary Cage

Cosequin® Lexington CCI4*-S

While Tamie Smith held onto her early lead in the 4* with Thursday’s 27.0 aboard Danito, this division saw several changes to its leaderboard as well. Fan-favorite duo Sharon White (USA) and Claus 63 moved into second with a beautiful 28.1, and Smith added another horse into a top spot when she scored a 29.7 with Lillet 3. This score tied her for third with young rider Elizabeth Barratt (GBR) riding Ride For Thais Chaman Dumontceau, also a 29.7.

“I’m really thrilled with Claus today,” White said. “He was very relaxed and very mature and well within himself. We’ve been working on that our whole partnership, so I feel like at 14-years-young now, he’s finally coming into his own. I’m super excited about the rest of the weekend. The [cross-country] track looks amazing. As always here, there’s a lot to do, but it looks like something to go get, so excited for that.”

Sharon White celebrates a great test aboard Claus 63. Photo by Mary Cage

Stay tuned tomorrow for cross-country day in both divisions.

2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5*-L Standings After Dressage

1. Monica Spencer (NZL) and Artist (22.3)
2. Tim Price (NZL) and Vitali (22.6)
3. Tom McEwen (GBR) and Brookfield Quality (25.1)
4. Caroline Pamukcu (USA) and HSH Blake (26.6)
5. Will Coleman (USA) and Diabolo (27.3)
6. Phillip Dutton (USA) and Possante (28.1)
7. Boyd Martin (USA) and Commando 3 (28.2)
8. Harry Meade (GBR) and Grafennacht (28.9)
9. Tim Price (NZL) and Global Quest (29.8)
10. Harry Meade (GBR) and Superstition (30.2)

2026 Cosequin® Lexington CCI4*-S Standings After Dressage

1. Tamie Smith (USA) and Danito (27.0)
2. Sharon  White (USA) and Claus 63 (28.1)
=3. Elizabeth Barratt (GBR) and Ride For Thais Chaman Dumontceau (29.7)
=3. Tamie Smith (USA) and Lillet 3 (29.7)
5. Alyssa Phillips (USA) and Rockett 19 (30.1)
6. Molly Duda (USA) and Carlingfords Hes a Clover (31.1)
=7. Will Coleman (USA) and Very Dignified (32.0)
=7. Tommy Greengard (USA) and That’s Me Z (31.4)
9. Dan Kreitl (USA) and Carmango (32.0)
10. Ema Klugman (AUS) and RF Redfern (32.1)

For complete dressage scores and updates about the event, visit www.kentuckythreedayevent.com.

Find all of our coverage on our 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event landing page.

Thanks to CareCredit for our 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event coverage.

The post 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event: Dressage Day Two appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

It’s looking like it will be four days of warm, possibly even hot, sun this year at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian. Always a nice change from driving rain and a brief return to winter!

With half of the CCI5*-L dressage tests in the books Thursday, the current leader is William Coleman (USA) with Diabolo, a 14-year-old Holsteiner gelding. The pair presented a smooth and lovely test that stuck on top of today’s leaderboard with a penalty score of 27.3 (72.69%).

“The first time you do a five-star at a place like this, in this kind of atmosphere, you’re never totally sure how your horse is going to cope,” said Coleman. “He got a little excited when he got up here to the ring. Even in my final warm-ups, I didn’t feel like I totally had him, but to his credit, he went in there and really stayed with me and did his job as best he could. I can’t be anything but proud of him — I just really, really adore this horse.”

Will Coleman and Diabolo, early leaders of the Defender Kentucky Three Day Event CCI5*-L after the first day of dressage. Photo by Mary Cage

In second for the day is Phillip Dutton (USA) on Possante, a 13-year-old KWPN gelding, with a 28.1. Dutton is a former winner of this event and a seven-time Olympic veteran with a penchant for accurate and high-scoring dressage tests, so it’s never a surprise to see him at the top of the pack here in Kentucky.

“Dressage comes reasonably easy for the horse, so it’s more a case of keeping it in,” said Dutton after his ride.

Phillip Dutton and Possante scored a 28.1 Photo by Mary Cage

Third overall today on a 29.8 is Tim Price of New Zealand on Global Quest, a 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse. Price is the World #4 ranked eventing rider and finished in second at this event in 2021 and third in 2019.

Tim Price and Global Quest were an early top score with a 29.8. Photo by Mary Cage

Today’s fourth place rider is World #1, Harry Meade of Great Britain, and 17-year-old BHHS gelding Superstition with a 30.2. This seasoned rider has overcome some intense injuries to shine at the top of the sport, which is always great to see.

Rounding out today’s top five on a score of 30.7 is crowd favorite and World #2 Boyd Martin (USA) with Cooley Nutcracker, a 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding.

In the CCI4*-S division, pairs looking for a shorter cross-country course on Saturday to perhaps prepare their horses for an eventual step up to a CCI5*-L, 22 pairs competed in the dressage ring on Thursday morning. Tamie Smith (USA), the 2023 CCI5* winner, topped the leaderboard on Danito, a 17-year-old Hanoverian gelding, with a 27.0 in this division after the first day of dressage.

Tamie Smith and Danito, leaders in the CCI4*-S after the first day of dressage. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

Stay tuned tomorrow for the second half of the dressage rides in both divisions.

2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5*-L Standings After Dressage Day One

1. Will Coleman (USA) and Diabolo (27.3)
2. Phillip Dutton (USA) and Possante (28.1)
3. Tim Price (NZL) and Global Quest (29.8)
4. Harry Meade (GBR) and Superstition (30.2)
5. Boyd Martin (USA) and Cooley Nutcracker (30.7)
6. David Doel (GBR) and Galileo Nieuwmoed (30.8)
7. Karen O’Neal (USA) and Clooney 14 (33.1)
8. Caroline Pamukcu (USA) and HSH Tolan King (33.5)
9. Mary Bess Davis (USA) and Imperio Magic (33.9)
10. Caroline Pamukcu (USA) and She’s the One (35.1)

2026 Cosequin® Lexington 4*-S Standings After Dressage Day One

1. Tamie Smith (USA) and Danito (27.0)
2. Tommy Greengard (USA) and That’s Me Z (31.4)
3. Dan Kreitl (USA) and Carmango (32.0)
4. Tamie Smith (USA) and Kynan (33.0)
5. Lauren Nicholson (USA) and Landmark’s Jungle Gold (33.2)
6. Will Coleman (USA) and Fahrenheit Addict (33.3)
7. Katie Lichten (USA) and Hickstead Musterd (33.6)
8. Elisa Wallace (USA) and Lissavorra Quality (34.5)
9. Laine Ashker (USA) and Lovedance (34.8)
10. James Alliston (USA) and HMR Rolan (35.1)

Find all of our coverage on our 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event landing page.

Thanks to CareCredit for our 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event coverage.

The post 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event: Dressage Day One appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Lexington, Ky. — The first horse inspection was blessedly drama free as all 29 horses presented to the ground jury at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian (K3DE) will be moving on to the first phase of competition, the dressage. Under blue skies and the occasional gust of wind, the competitors in the CCI5*-L competition put their best and most fashionable foot forward as they demonstrated their horses’ fitness to begin the competition.

No horses were held for re-inspection, all passed at first presentation.

Boyd Martin and Cooley Nutcracker. Photo by Mary Cage

The Event is produced by Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI), a non-profit, charitable organization that supports the development of equestrian sports by staging sporting events at the highest level. EEI is dedicated to creating opportunities for riders, horses, and equine organizations while advancing the United States’ strength and competitiveness on the international stage.

K3DE features one of only seven annual 5* three-day events in the world. K3DE is the largest and longest-running Five Star event in the Americas, and as the United States’ premier event, it also serves as the Defender/USEF CCI5*-L Eventing National Championship presented by MARS Equestrian for the U.S. athletes. Known as “The Best Weekend All Year,” the event annually attracts over 90,000 spectators who also enjoy extensive shopping, a variety of hospitality experiences and a wide array of entertainment activities. Additionally, K3DE features the Cosequin® Lexington CCI4*-S, a U.S. Equestrian Open of Eventing Series qualifying event, and the Kentucky International CSI5* Grand Prix presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute.

Dressage kicks off Thursday morning with the CCI4*-S in the morning, followed by the CCI5*-L in the afternoon. Four of the top six riders in the world are competing for the top prize this weekend, including World #1 Harry Meade of Great Britain, who will be competing on Superstition and Grafennacht, World #2 Boyd Martin from the USA who also brings forward two mounts, Cooley Nutcracker and Commando 3, World #4 Tim Price from New Zealand, also with two horses, Global Quest and Vitali, and World #6, Tom McEwen of Great Britain with Brookfield Quality.

— Edited Press Release | Source: Kentucky Three-Day Event

Find all of our coverage on our 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event landing page.

Thanks to CareCredit for our 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event coverage.

The post 2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event: All Horses Pass First Horse Inspection appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.