Babington: Triumph,Tragedy, Inspiration

From a small town in Ireland to the Olympic Games, Kevin Babington’s journey is one of grit, determination, and an unwavering love for horses.

In Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration, authors Jeff Papows, PhD, and Michael Cruciotti chronicle the remarkable life of one of show jumping’s most respected riders. Follow Kevin’s rise from humble beginnings in Ireland to representing his country on the world stage at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, building a successful business in the United States, and becoming a fixture within the international equestrian community.

Then, in a split second, everything changed.

Kevin Babington Foundation Mission

Kevin Babington Foundation (KBF) has been created to provide funding and support for Equestrian Show Jumping Athletes who sustain spinal injuries. In addition to providing financial assistance the foundation will also strive to educate riders, trainers and show organizers about the most current safety measures designed to reduce the risk of serious injuries which can occur while riding.

Babington Benefit Classes

What is a Babington Benefit Class?

Babington Benefit Classes are fundraising initiatives where a horse show can designate a specific class or classes where all or a percentage of the entry fees goes to benefit the Kevin Babington Foundation.

All horse shows can host a Babington Benefit Class. To host this class a horse show must contact the Kevin Babington Foundation and provide basic information about the show, dates and intended percentage of entry fee donation. The Kevin Babington Foundation will provide ribbons and additional marketing material to supplement the class.

Babington: Triumph,Tragedy, Inspiration

From a small town in Ireland to the Olympic Games, Kevin Babington’s journey is one of grit, determination, and an unwavering love for horses.

Babington Triumph Tragedy Inspiration

Fantastic read! Kevin’s story of resilience and inspiration is truly moving. A definite read!

MAC Sports International 
MAC Sports International

Excellent! Kevin is such an inspiration to anyone who has experienced adversity!!

Amazon Customer 
Amazon Customer

This is an incredible story about an unbelievable athlete who perseveres daily, even though he uses a wheelchair. This is inspirational for anyone having difficulty in life and may encourage other athletes.  The true story of Kevin Babbington, and actually the person himself, is amazing and one that is very uplifting

Cynthia 
Cynthia

This is one of the best reads of the summer. The large print makes it easy on the eyes as well. Photography is beautiful. Thanks so much for sharing this incredible story

Dianna Kinosian 
Dianna Kinosian

What an amazing story about overcoming adversity! Kevin is such an inspiration!

Sophia Bruny 
Sophia Bruny

This is a truly inspirational book about a world class athlete who refuses to give up…the book is very readable and the photos are gorgeous..you will enjoy it!

Michael Doherty 
Michael Doherty

A Must Read

Whether you are part of the equestrian community or simply appreciate stories about people who refuse to give up, this book leaves a lasting impression.

Robert D . Book Review 
Robert D . Book Review

Amazing

What an inspirational story about someone who never gives up. Such a wonderful read and something everyone should be ordering!

Joshua VanderVeen 
Joshua VanderVeen

Fabulous book he was our first horse trainer for my two girls he became a son to us love him dearly.

Debra Roslowski 
Debra Roslowski

As someone whose injury ended my show days, I can relate, though def not as bad as Kevin’s. Inspiring me to be more active with the horses

Jill N. 
Jill N.

Fantastic book!! Kevin is even more impressive than I ever realized. Enjoyed the read

Melissa 
Melissa

Great book. Great foundation.

Robert F Kirby 
Robert F Kirby

Talent, Heart and Horses

This book is such a good read. The story is almost hard to believe with everything that happens, but it’s told so well. It’s perfect for any athlete or parent of an athlete. Most people have no clue how complicated the show jumping world really is or what goes on behind the scenes. Kevin’s relationships with the horses and the people around him, his family come to life. Kevins accomplishments are extensive and they carry the undercurrent of this true story. Even dealing with the challenges of his injury, he still puts others first and remains an amazing teacher and horseman I have the privilege of seeing this firsthand.

M. Caldwell 
M. Caldwell

I just finished reading this book and I am truly inspired. It captures the love we all have for our horses and the reasons we are so dedicated to this wonderful life with them. The pressure and reward we feel in competition, the Olympic experience and the strength of an amazing man in the perfect way. Kevin is a legend and a hero, this book is a must read.

Amy Millar International Show Jumping Athlete
Amy Millar

I thought I knew Kevin after years of watching my daughters ride, observing his humility and kindness firsthand, and following his incredible career. But reading Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration showed me just how much I didn’t know. I laughed, cried, and came away with an even deeper admiration for Kevin – not just as an extraordinary horseman, but as an extraordinary person who degines what courage and resilience truly are.

Nancy Powers 
Nancy Powers

This is an exceptional book about an exceptional person. His story inspires thousands of others, with or without serious physical or mental hardships.Life may deal tragedies that you feel are insurmountable, but reading this book will definitely help you to learn that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Please read and enjoy.

Carol Coleman, Equestrian  
Carol Coleman, Equestrian

“He’s such an icon and such a talent and he’s changed our sport in a different way in recent years.”

Piper Klemm Editor, The Plaid Horse
Piper Klemm

“This incredible story is about a man who has faced so many trials and tribulations, yet continues encouraging others on their journey in a positive way. Kevin is an inspiration to all of us, and this book is a must-read for equestrian and non-equestrian folks who need some real inspiration when facing any challenge in life. Congratulations to Jeff and Michael for accomplishing this emotional journey for all of us.”

Cynthia Brewster-Keating GGT-Footing
Cynthia Brewster-Keating

“Kevin placed Windsor with us after he retired from jumping. Highly recommend his book! He is a true, in-the-bone equestrian and an absolutely lovely person.”

Fennel Farm 
Fennel Farm

“For many years, Jeff and I have spoken of his desire to capture Kevin’s extraordinary example of the human capabilities of a beloved and iconic equestrian. Now our wait is over, and his story, so beautifully told by authors so exquisite, has created an authentic adventure of spirituality. The contents between these covers are timeless.”

Victoria McCullough MIDA Farms
Victoria McCullough

“This book is a true testament to Kevin, his character, and his unwavering resilience. May we all find the strength to face life’s trials and tribulations with the same courage, and appreciate the power of great friendships and community.”

Alan Griffin 
Alan Griffin

In late August 2019, Kevin experienced a life-altering moment when he suffered a complete spinal cord injury following a fall during the 2019 Grand Prix at the Hampton Classic Horse Show in Bridgehampton, NY, United States. In early September, Kevin underwent a critical surgery to stabilize the vertebrae in his neck. By mid-October of that same year, he had made significant progress, transitioning from relying on a ventilator for breathing to facing the challenge of being paralyzed from the neck down. Remarkably, just two months later, Kevin began teaching from his wheelchair. Today, he remains on a determined journey, actively participating in experimental stem cell therapy, holding onto the hope of regaining movement below the neck.

This life-altering event marked the inception of the Kevin Babington Foundation, which was established in 2019.

The Foundation is guided by a set of vital objectives:

  1. Establish standardized protocols for the immediate treatment of spinal injuries, ensuring accessibility across various locations.
  2. Provide funding for grants tailored to support show jumping athletes who sustain spinal injuries while actively engaged in Show Jumping. These grants aim to facilitate consultations with top-tier medical professionals at leading healthcare facilities. Our charter is dedicated to this specific group of athletes.
  3. Allocate resources to support the development and promotion of cutting-edge safety equipment within the equestrian community. We recognize that our sport lags in this area and are committed to exploring innovative options in safety vests and riding coats that are readily available.
  4. Collaborate with national equestrian federations and competitions to educate equestrian show jumping athletes about the importance of available safety equipment, thus enhancing protection against catastrophic injuries.

Through these objectives, the Kevin Babington Foundation strives to make a meaningful impact on the safety and well-being of show jumping athletes while championing advancements in spinal injury treatment and prevention.

Kevin Babington Foundation Mission

Kevin Babington Foundation (KBF) has been created to provide funding and support for Equestrian Show Jumping Athletes who sustain spinal injuries. In addition to providing financial assistance the foundation will also strive to educate riders, trainers and show organizers about the most current safety measures designed to reduce the risk of serious injuries which can occur while riding.

501c3 Nonprofit Organization

The Board of Directors here at the Kevin Babington Foundation is very pleased to announce that the foundation has been officially recognized as a tax exempt organization, as described in section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Code. With this designation, the foundation has opened the door for many more opportunities by way of collaboration, fundraising and recognition as a non-profit organization in the equestrian community.

Donations will be used to help rehabilitate equestrian show jumping athletes with spinal injuries.

News & Updates

Windstar Cruises Joins the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament—with an Incredible Prize on the Line

Windstar Cruises Joins the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament—with an Incredible Prize on the Line The winner of the Babington Benefit Classic will receive a complimentary Windstar cruise for two! FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Wellington, FL – Aug. 20, 2026 The Silver Oak Jumper Tournament, presented by the Davis McCullough Foundation, is thrilled to welcome Windstar Cruises as its 2026 Official Clear Round Sponsor as well as the Leading Lady and Male Rider to be awarded on Sunday following the Agero Grand Prix!! This exciting sponsorship brings the spirit of Windstar’s signature small-yacht cruising to one of show jumping’s most meaningful and memorable...
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Help Us Grow the Momentum!

Help Us Grow the Momentum! Thank you for your purchase of the book Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration! Now help us by leaving a review on Amazon FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Wellington, FL – Aug. 14, 2026 Thank you for purchasing Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration and supporting the Kevin Babington Foundation. If you’ve had a chance to read the book, please consider leaving an honest review on Amazon. Every review helps more people discover Kevin’s story and supports the Foundation’s mission. CLICK HERE TO LEAVE A REVIEW ON AMAZON   Thank you for being part of this journey. The Kevin Babington Foundation About Kevin Babington...
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Silver Oak Jumper Tournament – Presented by the Davis McCullough Foundation Just Weeks Away

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament - Presented by the Davis McCullough Foundation Just Weeks Away Returning Loyal Sponsors, the Babington Benefit Class, Live Music and an Unforgettable Week of Show Jumping Await in Traverse City FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Wellington, FL – Aug. 11, 2026 The countdown is officially underway. From September 2–6, 2026, the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament - presented by the Davis McCullough Foundation, will return to Traverse City Horse Shows for five days of world-class competition, meaningful charitable initiatives, returning loyal sponsors making the SOJT platform a force in support of KBF’s charitable mission and special experiences designed to bring the equestrian community together....
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Social News & Updates
Donate to the Kevin Babington Foundation

Donations will be used to help rehabilitate Show Jumping Athletes who sustain a spinal injury. Thank you for your support.

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