Turn One Class Into a Lasting Impact

Horse Shows Invited to Host Babington Benefit Classes Supporting Injured Riders

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wellington, FL – April. 21, 2026

The Kevin Babington Foundation is calling on horse shows across the country to join a powerful movement within the sport: hosting a Babington Benefit Class.

Click Here to See How You Can Host A Babington Benefit Class

Through this initiative, horse shows can dedicate a single class, entry fees or a portion of entry fees within their schedule to support show jumping athletes who have suffered spinal cord injuries, helping provide critical financial assistance while reinforcing the importance of safety within the sport of show jumping.

With the message “Turn One Class Into a Lasting Impact,” the Foundation is encouraging organizers, riders, and venues to recognize the collective strength of the equestrian community—where even one class can make a meaningful difference in the life of an injured athlete.

Supporting Riders, Promoting Safety, Strengthening Community

Babington Benefit Classes reflect several key pillars that continue to guide the Foundation’s work across the sport:

Support Riders
Provide financial assistance to show jumping athletes who have suffered spinal cord injuries.

Promote Safety
Encourage safety initiatives within the sport, including the use of protective equipment such as safety vests.

Invest in the Future
Help educate riders about the importance of safety and awareness in show jumping.

Strengthen Community
Foster a compassionate and resilient equestrian community that supports its athletes both in and out of the arena.

One Class. Every Round Counts.

Each Babington Benefit Class represents more than a competition—it is a symbol of the sport standing together.

Several leading horse shows have already embraced the initiative, demonstrating how the industry can come together to support riders facing life-changing injuries while continuing to build a safer future for the sport.

Horse show organizers interested in hosting a Babington Benefit Class can easily incorporate the program into their existing schedule, creating an opportunity to give back while engaging their riders and spectators in a meaningful cause.

Click Here to Learn More

About the Kevin Babington Foundation

The Kevin Babington Foundation is dedicated to providing critical support, resources, and financial assistance to show jumping athletes who have suffered spinal cord injuries. Through the generosity of the equestrian community, the Foundation continues to create meaningful pathways forward for injured riders while advocating for safety and recovery within the sport.

Other Ways to Donate

Your support powers our mission to protect, uplift, and empower riders through recovery assistance, safety advocacy, and education. Here’s how you can help:

💻 Donate Online

Make a secure one-time or recurring donation via our website:
👉 https://kevinbabingtonfoundation.org/donations/

✉️ Mail a Check

Checks can be made payable to:
Kevin Babington Foundation

10 Edgewood Rd.,
Westwood, MA 02090-3136 USA

💼 Corporate or Matching Gifts

Many companies will match your donation. Ask your HR department if your employer participates—or contact us and we’ll help facilitate the process.

🏅 Sponsor an Event

Become a sponsor of one of our upcoming 2026 events (MIDA Farm Classic, Kevin’s Rockstars, or Live Oak International).
To learn more, email us at: contact@kevinbabingtonfoundation.org

Benefits of Giving Before December 31st

Giving before the end of the calendar year provides significant tax advantages and directly fuels our winter programming.

Tax Deduction

The Kevin Babington Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN: 85-2059430). All contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

Timing Matters

Donations made on or before December 31st, 2026 may be claimed on your 2025 tax return—providing potential savings while supporting a great cause.

🔁 Recurring Gifts Multiply Impact

Consider making your donation a monthly recurring gift to sustain our mission year-round with less effort and greater long-term impact.

Explore KBF Merch

Official Ride For Kevin Hat White

Purchase Here

Official Ride For Kevin Hat Black

Purchase Here

Don’t Stop Believin’ Next Level Tri-Blend T-shirt

Purchase Here

Women’s: Don’t Stop Believin’ Next Level Tri-Blend T-shirt

Purchase Here

“Ride for Kevin” Handmade Leather Belt

Purchase Here

SAFEFIT Airbag Vest – Kevin Babington Foundation Edition

Purchase Here

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