Recap: 3rd Annual Kevin Babington Foundation Benefit Classic

Recap: 3rd Annual Kevin Babington Foundation Benefit Classic

Recap: 3rd Annual Kevin Babington Foundation Benefit Classic

The recently concluded 3rd Annual Kevin Babington Foundation Benefit Classic, held at the magnificent MIDA farm, was a resounding success. The event, dedicated to supporting the Kevin Babington Foundation, brought together the equestrian community in a display of solidarity and support for an incredible cause.

Daniel Coyle emerged victorious in this year’s competition, showcasing exceptional skill and sportsmanship. His triumph further underscores the spirit of camaraderie and excellence that defines the Kevin Babington Foundation Benefit Classic. In fact, that was Daniel’s 2nd consecutive victory, and the 3rd year the Irish reined supreme.

Recap: 3rd Annual Kevin Babington Foundation Benefit Classic

A heartfelt acknowledgment goes out to Lugano Diamonds and Victoria McCullough for their generous support and contribution towards the Foundation. Additionally, Lugano Diamonds crafted a stunning signature piece for the raffle, further enhancing the fundraising efforts. Their commitment to philanthropy and making a positive impact in the equestrian community is truly incredible.

The funds raised from this event will be directed towards supporting Show Jumpers undergoing spinal cord rehabilitation, underscoring the Foundation’s commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals within the equestrian community.

We thank everyone involved in making the 3rd Annual Kevin Babington Foundation Benefit Classic a tremendous success, the riders, Lugano Diamonds and most certainly Victoria McCullough. Your support and dedication are instrumental in advancing the Foundation’s mission and creating positive change.

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An Update from Jonathon and Kelly Soleau-Millar

An Update from Jonathon and Kelly Soleau-Millar

Jonathon and Kelly are now settled in Wellington, Florida for the winter season and have their eyes set dead ahead on the road to a full recovery. Throughout the summer, Jonathon and Kelly were based in Lexington, Kentucky where they were able to continue Jonathon’s therapy. Jonathon is getting stronger and stronger every day, and he is continuing his occupational and speech therapy here in Wellington, as well as starting to get back in the saddle. 

Jonathon, Kelly, and the entire Millar Brooke South team are excited for this next chapter on Jonathon’s road to recovery, though he still has a long way to go. Jonathon and Kelly would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the entire equestrian community for rallying behind them in their time of need and supporting them in any way that they could. Thank you all! Jonathan and Kelly. 

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Babington Benefit Clinic December 16 2023

Babington Benefit Clinic December 16 2023

Babington Benefit Clinic December 16 2023

Candice King, one of the most talented equestrians in the United States, has agreed to donate her time and expertise to run a clinic on December 16, 2023 at Yorkfield Stables in Kensington, New Hampshire. All proceeds will go directly to The Kevin Babington Foundation. I have known Candice for many years and she is, in fact, featured in chapter four of my book, ‘Unbridled Passion.’

Candice was the top-placed U.S. rider in the FEI Show Jumping World Cup Final in Gothenburg, Sweden, and was the first U.S. rider since 1968 to win the 2001 Queen Elizabeth II Cup at the Royal Invitational Horse Show (CSIO-Hickstead) in England.

Some of Candice’s most notable successes include placing first in the six-bar competition at CSIO5* in Rotterdam. Candice qualified for the shortlist at the 2006 FEI World Equestrian Games in Aachen, Germany. She has represented the United States in the biggest events all over the world and has won many Grand Prix events.

Candice has served as a member of the USHJA Trainers Certification Program Committee and is on the distinguished list of TCP Approved Clinicians. She is also an active member of the USHJA Board of Directors and Professionals Committee, as well as the U

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Update: Jonathon Millar’s Recovery

Update: Jonathon Millar’s Recovery

Many of you heard of Jonathon Millar’s accident at the end of the winter circuit.  The Babington Foundation along with many others, have been involved to support his transport to The Shepard’s Center in Atlanta, Georgia–the best possible place for Jonathon’s recovery.

I was in touch with Kelly, Jonathon’s wife, and she provided the following update I’ve placed here word for word so you can hear it directly.

“Jeff thanks for staying in touch, here is the latest, Jonathon has been at the Shepard Center (in Atlanta, Georgia) for one week and has already made huge improvements! 

After settling in, we  met with the team of doctors and specialists that would be working with him throughout his stay.

In this first week, with the help of his amazing care team, Jonathon is now starting to do more things on his own such as talking and drinking. He is even regaining enough strength to begin standing up with some assistance! Even though these seem like small steps, they are all positive ones. He is headed in the right direction. Jonathon would not be able to make this much progress without the expertise provided at the Shepard Center.

Overall, he is getting stronger everyday thanks to this incredible care. We are thrilled to see pieces of Jonathon coming back together slowly, but surely. 

We would not be able to have this opportunity without the help and support from The Jonathon Millar Recovery Fund on GoFundMe, The Ziegler Family, The Fisher Family, and importantly, The Kevin Babington Foundation. The donations have made Jonathon’s stay at the Shepard Center possible, and we feel hopeful that he will make a full recovery. 

We cannot thank you enough for your donations, your love and your support for Jonathon and the entire Millar Brooke South Team and the Millar family.”

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Letter From Kevin Babington Feb 2022

Letter From Kevin Babington Feb 2022

Letter From Kevin Babington Feb 2022

It’s been a while sense I updated all my friends directly so at Jeff’s request here we go.  The last two months have been intense.  Physical Therapy at a new and more taxing, while at the same time rewarding level.  Boy I’m being pushed and it’s so great to feel and see the progress in my recovery.  This is a very short video clip here, that’s your’ s truly moving my legs on my own power, stabilized a bit by my aides but not mechanical, it’s really me.

I’ve been moving around getting invasive stem cell therapies and while not always pleasant the great professionals at the Mayo Clinic are to be credited with a major element of my progress.

I’m supported by a great family, Dianna the two girls and I are busy with our training, showing and sales business, and I love immersing myself in that work.  I love coaching, I always have even before my fall.  By the way – I’m thrilled to see so many of you wearing protective vests these days.

I’m looking forward to the Grand Prix benefit Jeff, Victoria, and the Foundation have organized for Feb 22.  So many riders are turning out and it’s inspiring to me.  Don’t forget the reception at Victoria’s house at MIDA farm from 5-7 following that day following the Benefit Classic, also at MIDA farm from 10 – 2.

I’m so looking forward to seeing you.  I’m grateful for the love and support and can’t wait to see you all.

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