Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration Sparks Conversation Across the Equestrian Community

Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration Sparks Conversation Across the Equestrian Community

Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration Sparks Conversation Across the Equestrian Community

As Readers Discover Kevin Babington’s More Complete Story, a Book Becomes a Source of Inspiration—and a Powerful Force for the Kevin Babington Foundation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wellington, FL – Aug. 4, 2026

 

Something interesting is happening throughout the equestrian community. A bit surprising really. Just weeks after its release, Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration has quickly become more than a new book—it has become a conversation. From riders and trainers to horse owners, industry leaders, and lifelong supporters, readers are not only embracing Kevin Babington’s more complete and in large part untold story elements, but sharing it with friends, families, and fellow equestrians.

 

We are also pleased to announce that Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration is now available on Kindle!! Click below to download the Kindle version on your Kindle or on your tablet. 

Click Here to Order Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration

Click Here to Download On Kindle

With a large and growing collection of five-star reviews, the response has been overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing what so many have always known: Kevin’s story reaches far beyond the show ring.

 

While the reviews speak for themselves, the true impact of the book lies in the conversations it has inspired.

 

Readers have described Babington as a story of perseverance, friendship, humility, and hope. It is a reminder that while championships may define a career, it is character that defines a legacy.

 

For the Kevin Babington Foundation, that message carries even greater significance.

 

Every copy purchased is 100% contributed, aka every penny, to the Foundation’s mission of providing financial assistance and critical resources to show jumping athletes recovering from spinal cord injuries. The book has become more than a fundraiser—it has become another way the equestrian community is rallying around one of its own while helping future athletes facing unimaginable challenges.

 

Kevin’s journey—from a young rider in Ireland to Olympian, international champion, devastating spinal cord injury, and unwavering advocate for others—continues to inspire people both inside and outside of equestrian sport.

Written by Jeff Papows, PhD and Michael Cruciotti, with a foreword by author and motivational speaker Tom Sullivan, Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration tells a story that transcends sport. It is a testament to resilience, the strength of family and friendship, and the extraordinary power of a community that refuses to let one of its own stand alone.

As more readers discover Kevin’s story, one message continues to emerge:

This is not simply a book about an Olympic rider.

It is a book about overcoming life’s greatest obstacles with courage, grace, and unwavering determination.

The Kevin Babington Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has purchased the book, shared a review, recommended it to a friend, or helped spread Kevin’s story. Together, the equestrian community is ensuring that this message of resilience continues to reach new audiences while directly supporting athletes who need it most.

Order your copy of Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration today and become part of a story that continues to inspire the entire equestrian community.

Click Here to Order Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration

Click Here to Order Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration 

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.

Kevin Babington Foundation Links

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament Links

The First Reviews Are In for Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration

The First Reviews Are In for Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration

The First Reviews Are In for Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration

Early Readers Celebrate Kevin Babington’s Extraordinary Story of Courage, Resilience, Friendship, and Community

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wellington, FL – July 15, 2026

The first reviews are in.

As copies of Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration arrive in the hands of readers, the response to the extraordinary story of Irish Olympian Kevin Babington has been powerful.

From respected leaders within the equestrian industry to lifelong friends and supporters, early readers are sharing a remarkably consistent message: this is more than a story about show jumping.

​

It is a story about courage.

Resilience.

Friendship.

Community.

And the extraordinary capacity of the human spirit to keep moving forward.

Click Here to Order Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration

​

All proceeds benefit the Kevin Babington Foundation.

​

The Equestrian Community Responds

Among the first to recommend Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration was Alan Griffin, pointing to the lessons of courage, friendship, and community found throughout Kevin’s story.

“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

Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

For Victoria McCullough of MIDA Farms, the publication of Kevin’s story represents the culmination of a vision discussed for years.

“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

Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

​

Another incredible review from Fennel Farm.

“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

Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

​

Cynthia Brewster-Keating of GGT-Footing reflected on the universality of Kevin’s journey and the book’s ability to inspire readers far beyond the equestrian community.

“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

Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

​

Piper Klemm, Editor of The Plaid Horse, who reflected on Kevin’s lasting impact on equestrian sport.

“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

Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

​

A Story That Reaches Far Beyond the Arena

Written by Jeff Papows, PhD and Michael Cruciotti, with a foreword by author, entertainer, and motivational speaker Tom Sullivan, Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration chronicles Kevin’s remarkable journey from his childhood in Ireland to the pinnacle of international show jumping.

It follows the horses, friendships, sacrifices, and unforgettable moments that shaped his career, including his appearance at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens aboard the legendary Carling King.

But in August 2019, everything changed.

A catastrophic accident left Kevin paralyzed and facing the greatest challenge of his life. What followed is a story that could never be measured by medals, ribbons, or victories in the show ring.

It is a story of the people who showed up.

The friendships that endured.

The community that rallied.

And a man whose concern for others, sense of humor, and determination to keep moving forward remained even when life presented an unimaginable obstacle.

The early response to Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration reinforces the message at the heart of the book: Kevin Babington’s story may have been shaped by equestrian sport, but its lessons belong to everyone.

Order your copy today and become part of Kevin Babington’s remarkable journey.

Click Here to Pre Order Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration 

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

Kevin Babington Foundation Links

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament Links

Celebrating Freedom, Community, and the American Spirit

Celebrating Freedom, Community, and the American Spirit

Celebrating Freedom, Community, and the American Spirit

The Kevin Babington Foundation Wishes Everyone a Happy Fourth of July

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wellington, FL – July 4, 2026

Today, the Kevin Babington Foundation proudly joins millions of Americans in celebrating Independence Day and the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America.

For a quarter of a millennium, our nation has stood as a symbol of courage, opportunity, perseverance, and hope. This historic milestone serves as a reminder of the generations who have worked to build stronger communities, support one another through adversity, and preserve the freedoms that allow us to pursue our dreams.

At the Kevin Babington Foundation, those same values are reflected every day through the remarkable generosity of the equestrian community.

Whether supporting an injured athlete, volunteering at a fundraiser, raising awareness, or simply lending a helping hand, our supporters continually demonstrate that the strength of a community is measured not only by what it achieves, but by how it cares for one another.

As we celebrate this special Fourth of July, we also pause to express our sincere gratitude to the men and women who have served—and continue to serve—our country. Their dedication and sacrifice have helped preserve the freedoms we are privileged to enjoy today.

“Our Foundation has always been built on people coming together in support of something greater than themselves,” said Jeff Papows, Chairman of the Kevin Babington Foundation and former Marine Corp Officer. “The Fourth of July reminds us that unity, service, and compassion are values that continue to define our nation and inspire our community.”

This year also marks an exciting time for the Foundation as we prepare to begin shipping the first copies of Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration beginning July 6. Kevin’s remarkable story is one of resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief that even life’s greatest obstacles can be overcome with courage, family, friends, and community standing beside you.

Click Here to Pre Order Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration 

As families gather to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, the Kevin Babington Foundation wishes everyone a safe, joyful, and memorable Independence Day filled with gratitude, reflection, and time spent with those who matter most.

Happy Fourth of July.

Happy 250th Anniversary, America.

And thank you to everyone who continues to support the mission of the Kevin Babington Foundation.

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

Kevin Babington Foundation Links

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament Links

The Countdown Begins: Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration Begins Shipping July 6

The Countdown Begins: Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration Begins Shipping July 6

The Countdown Begins: Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration Begins Shipping July 6

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wellington, FL – June 30, 2026

The countdown has officially begun.

In just one week, the first copies of Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration will begin shipping to readers anxiously awaiting to understand the previously untold details that make this story even more inspiring.

The Kevin Babington Foundation is excited to announce that pre-orders placed through the Foundation website will begin shipping next week, marking an important milestone in sharing one of the most inspiring stories in equestrian sport. For those who think they understood the complete story, the amazing details of courage, unselfishness, and concern for others, this book is simply a must read.

Click Here to Pre-Order Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration

All proceeds benefit the Kevin Babington Foundation.

 

Written by Jeff Papows, PhD and Michael Cruciotti, with a foreword by author, entertainer, and motivational speaker Tom Sullivan, Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration tells the remarkable story of Irish Olympian Kevin Babington—from his childhood in Ireland to competing on the world’s biggest stages, and ultimately overcoming one of the greatest challenges imaginable.

Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration | The Extraordinary Story of Irish Olympian Kevin Babington

More than a story about horses or competition, the book is a deeply personal journey of perseverance, family, friendship, and the determination to keep moving forward when life changes in an instant.

Since announcing the book, the response from the equestrian community has been overwhelming. Supporters from around the world have shared their excitement to read Kevin’s story and help support the Foundation’s mission through their purchase.

“Kevin’s story belongs to all of us,” said Michael Cruciotti, co-author and Founder of MAC Sports International. “It is a story of resilience, courage, and the incredible strength of the equestrian community. We cannot wait for readers to experience this journey beginning July 6.”

 

International Orders Coming Next Week

The Foundation is also pleased to announce that international ordering will become available next week through Amazon, making it easier than ever for readers across the globe to receive their copy.

Additional details and purchasing information will be announced as soon as Amazon listings are live.

Every Book Makes a Difference

Every purchase of Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration directly supports the Kevin Babington Foundation and its mission of providing assistance to show jumping athletes who have suffered catastrophic spinal cord injuries.

As the countdown continues, the Foundation invites the equestrian community and supporters everywhere to reserve their copy and help share Kevin’s remarkable journey with family, friends, and fellow horse lovers.

Because this is more than a book.

It is a story of courage.

A story of resilience.

A story that reminds us all that no obstacle is greater than the strength of the human spirit.

Pre-order today and be among the first to receive your copy when shipping begins July 6.

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

Kevin Babington Foundation Links

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament Links

The Countdown Begins: Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration Begins Shipping July 6

Babington The Extraordinary Story of Irish Olympian Kevin Babington

Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration — The Extraordinary Story of Irish Olympian Kevin Babington

New Book Celebrates a Journey of Courage, Resilience, and the Power to Keep Moving Forward

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wellington, FL – June 7, 2026

The Kevin Babington Foundation is proud to announce the release of Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration, a powerful new book chronicling the extraordinary life and career of Irish Olympian Kevin Babington.

Click Here to Pre-Order Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration

All proceeds go to the Kevin Babington Foundation

Written by Jeff Papows, PhD, and Michael Cruciotti, with a foreword by author, singer, entertainer, and motivational speaker Tom Sullivan, Babington tells the remarkable true story of a young Irish horseman who crossed the Atlantic with a dream and went on to reach the pinnacle of international show jumping.

From his early days in Ireland, to building a successful business in the United States, to representing Ireland at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens aboard the legendary Carling King, Kevin’s journey is one defined by determination, sacrifice, and an unwavering love for horses.

Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration | The Extraordinary Story of Irish Olympian Kevin Babington

But in August of 2019, everything changed.

A catastrophic fall left Kevin paralyzed and facing the greatest challenge of his life. What followed was not the end of his story, but the beginning of a new chapter — one built on courage, resilience, family, friendship, and the support of an entire equestrian community.

“There are people in all walks of life who are inspirational, but few if any have inspired the equestrian community the way Kevin Babington has,” said Michael Stone, CEO of Wellington International. “By force of character, he achieved greatness in the ring, but by the true courage he has kept reaching forward when life became most difficult.”

More Than a Story About Show Jumping

Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration follows Kevin’s incredible journey through the people and horses that shaped his life — from childhood dreams, unforgettable partnerships, and Olympic achievement, to rebuilding purpose after unimaginable adversity.

Through deeply personal stories, humor, reflection, and unforgettable moments, the book captures not only Kevin’s accomplishments as an athlete, but the character of the man behind them.

His story serves as a reminder that greatness is not measured only by victories in the ring, but by the strength to continue forward when life presents its greatest obstacles.

A Story of Courage. A Legacy of Inspiration.

All proceeds from the sale of Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration will benefit the Kevin Babington Foundation and its mission to support show jumping athletes who have suffered catastrophic spinal cord injuries.

Pre-orders are available now, with books expected to begin shipping in early July.

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