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Babington Benefit Classic Delivers Emotional, Last-to-Go Thriller in Support of the Kevin Babington Foundation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Traverse City, MI – Sept. 7, 2025

The Babington Benefit Classic, presented by Rood & Riddle, produced a heart-pounding finish and an outpouring of support for the Kevin Babington Foundation as riders rallied for a cause that unites the sport. Twenty-six combinations came forward, and an exceptional 19 riders jumped clear in Round 1 to set up a jump-off loaded with speed, precision, and drama.

From the early going, Kristen Vanderveen threw down a target that looked untouchable—blistering pace and ice-cold execution. But the script flipped at the very end. Last to go, her sister-in-law Kelli Cruciotti-Vanderveen walked through the in-gate on Shamonix SF, a 7-year-old mare with a big engine and a bigger heart. What followed was a turn-and-burn masterclass: tight rollback turns, a bold gallop down the final line, and a wire-to-wire dash that stopped the clock by 0.569 seconds—just over half a second—to seal a memorable victory for the Foundation’s signature class.

“Today showcased the best of our community—elite sport, sportsmanship, and genuine purpose,” said Tournament Chairman Jeff Papows. “With Rood & Riddle’s support and every rider leaning in for the Kevin Babington Foundation, the Babington Benefit Classic delivered a finish we’ll be talking about all year.”

Podium — Babington Benefit Classic (Presented by Rood & Riddle)

  1. Kelli CRUCIOTTI VANDERVEEN (USA) — SHAMONIX SF
    R1: 0 | 73.429 • J/O: 0 | 29.640

  2. Kristen VANDERVEEN (USA) — BULL RUN’S KINGDOM
    R1: 0 | 70.924 • J/O: 0 | 30.209

  3. ALICE GOODWIN (USA) — COCAINE DE RIVERLAND
    R1: 0 | 69.743 • J/O: 0 | 30.309

With a near-record wave of first-round clears and a last-to-go winner, the Babington Benefit Classic reminded everyone why this event matters: world-class sport powering a mission to advance rider safety, rehabilitation, and education through the Kevin Babington Foundation.
Click Here to View Full Class Results

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament Dates & Schedule

📅 Event Date: September 3 – 7 2025

📍 Location: Flintfields Horse Park

🏠 Address: Traverse City Horse Shows – Flintfields Horse Park – Williamsburg, MI 49690

Click Here to Learn More

About Kevin Babington Foundation:    

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. 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.

Kevin Babington Foundation Links

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament Links