For Immediate Release: 02/20/2025

All Are Invited and Welcome to the MIDA Babington Benefit Classic Awards Reception

Join us for the MIDA Farms Babington Benefit Classic Awards Reception—a night of celebration, great company, and unforgettable moments!

Following the thrilling conclusion of the Babington Benefit Classic, we’ll gather at Victoria’s home on MIDA Farm at 6:30 PM for an elegant awards Reception and reception. Expect incredible live music, exquisite cuisine prepared by the renowned Kevin Rose, and the prestigious awards presentation by Kevin and Victoria.

“This is always a highlight of the Babington Benefit Classic,” says Chairman Jeff Papows. “From the excitement of the competition during the day to celebrating everyone’s achievements in the evening, it adds another layer of camaraderie and passion to the event.”

The night will feature the crowning of the 2025 MIDA Farms Babington Benefit Classic Champion, who will take home an incredible prize—two tickets to the Mediterranean, courtesy of Windstar Cruises!

Additionally, we are thrilled to announce that Rood & Riddle, a longtime partner of the foundation, will be awarding an exclusive Whiskey Basket to the second-place winner.

This event is quickly becoming a staple of the Wellington equestrian calendar, and we can’t wait to celebrate with all of you. Mark your calendars and join us for a night to remember!

See you there!

Date: February 25, 2025

Start Time: 10:00 AM

Hang Out and Watch with Kevin Babington? OF COURSE!

Horse Registration: Click Here

Event Height: 1.30m

Address: 13801 40th St S, Wellington, FL 33414 Arena Type: Grass… AMAZING Grass

Basket donated by Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital includes three select, rare bourbons:

Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey, taken from the center-cut sections of the famous Warehouse H, Blanton’s Original Single Barrel was once designated for ambassadors, dignitaries, and Colonel Blanton’s family and friends. Today, everyone has access to the world’s first single barrel bourbon. The taste profile is sweet, with notes of citrus and oak. The creamy vanilla nose is teased with caramel and butterscotch, all underscored by familiar baking spices such as clove, nutmeg, or cinnamon. Blanton’s Original set the standard for single barrel bourbons in 1984.

Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon is finished in port wine casks for an award-winning spirit. Each batch is conditioned, blended and handcrafted in small batches of 8 to 12 barrels at a time and aged for up to 6 years. Approximately 5% of the spirit is lost to evaporation each year, leaving behind “the Angel’s Share”. Once it’s deemed ready, the bourbon is finished in ruby port wine casks from Portugal made from French oak, which creates a whiskey of unprecedented smoothness, sweetness and balance. This is one of only a handful of the 2023 bottles considered to be exceptional enough for release as cask strength with its lengthy finishing process.

Woodford Reserve Barrel Finish Select Double Double Oaked is a masterful expression of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. A part of the exclusive Barrel Finish Select Series, this unique bourbon undergoes an extended aging process and is finished in heavily toasted new oak barrels. The result is a whiskey rich in character, offering an exceptional depth of flavor and complexity rarely encountered in American whiskey.

Kevin Babington Foundation Links

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament Links

For Immediate Release: 02/28/2025

Benefit Classic Shines, Raising Funds Needed and Delivers a Fairytale Ending

Each year, the Babington Benefit Classic leaves a lasting impression on riders, trainers, owners, and the entire equestrian community when on that day we all ride for Kevin, for David, Alexis, for Kim, for Johnathon. This year, during the 4th Annual MIDA Farms Babington Benefit Classic, its impact reached far beyond those who participated in the event and prompted an incredible fairytale ending.

As horse-and-rider combinations took to the field, competing for an extraordinary grand prize—a Mediterranean cruise for two, generously donated by Windstar Cruises. However, what truly set this year apart was the overwhelming support from the global equestrian community. With over 40 horse entries from riders around the world, it became clear that being part of the #RideForKevin movement isn’t just about competing—it’s about showing support in every way possible, virtually or otherwise.

“I am in constant awe of the generosity and love our sport continues to show,” said Chairman Jeff Papows. “The Babington Benefit Classic was a resounding success—not just because of the riders who came out to compete, but because of the global impact we are making. Riders want to Ride For Kevin, even if they aren’t in town to do so.”

That impact was undeniable—this year’s Classic raised needed donations, helping the Kevin Babington Foundation continue its mission to provide funding and support for show jumping athletes who have suffered spinal injuries, and to connect with the latest medial advancements.

This event was not just a competition—it was a testament to the power of generosity, unity, and the unwavering spirit of the Show Jumping community.

Capping off the event with what many would call a “fairytale ending,” Isabella Harding claimed her first-ever victory, and did it, at the MIDA Farms Babington Benefit Classic. Arriving midday on Tuesday with a relatively new horse, Isabella aimed to gain experience on the grass surface while supporting her longtime mentor and coach, Kevin Babington.

“I started riding later than many in the industry, and Kevin has been an incredible inspiration and supporter throughout my career,” Isabella shared. “I began as a catch rider and working student, with each horse I owned purchased with the goal of producing, selling, and reinvesting in the next one. The horse that truly launched my career was a rescue named Gold Ridge—but he meant far more to me than just another ride. He was a saving grace during one of the most difficult times in my life.”

Isabella recalled that around the same time she and her family rescued Gold Ridge, she also suffered the devastating loss of her brother. “Both my mom and I found ourselves relying on Gold Ridge to cope with our grief,” she explained. The bond they formed with the horse was profound, offering both healing and hope.

Gold Ridge was more than just a special horse—he became a catalyst for Isabella’s career. With him, she went on to win a U25 Grand Prix, marking a defining moment in her journey.

“When I won the U25 with Gold Ridge, it was the highlight of my career at the time,” she reflected. “After everything we had been through as a family, having that horse take me to that level felt like the pinnacle. I couldn’t imagine anything better.”

But better it got. Since then, Isabella has worked with several young, promising horses—one of whom had been overlooked by countless trainers before catching the attention of Kevin Babington.

“I had a project horse that was quite unique, and I struggled to find a trainer who saw potential in him. Trainer after trainer turned me down—until I approached Kevin,” Isabella said. “He saw what I saw. He believed in me, and from that moment on, he began working with me.”

That belief and guidance have brought Isabella full circle—leading her to a stunning victory at this year’s Babington Benefit Classic, a moment that felt almost destined.

As if her win wasn’t already unforgettable, Isabella Harding’s victory at the Babington Benefit Classic became even sweeter at the awards ceremony and reception—where she had no idea she had won.

As Chairman Jeff Papows and Chief Operating Officer of Windstar Cruises, Stijn Creupelandt, took the podium to announce the results, Isabella listened intently, unaware of what was about to unfold. Then, they called her name—the winner of the event and the recipient of a luxury cruise for two to the Mediterranean, courtesy of Windstar Cruises. Moments later Victoria McCullough handed her the trophy and a ribbon about her own height capping off the fairy tale.

“I was completely overwhelmed with joy,” Isabella recalled. “It truly was a full-circle moment. I didn’t know where I had placed, so it caught me completely by surprise. Not only did I win the class, but now I get to go on a dream vacation with an incredible yacht-style cruise. Stijn asked me who I was planning to take with me and I knew there was only one person… my mom.”

The Babington Benefit Classic is more than just a show jumping competition—it is a celebration of resilience, passion, and community. It brings people together, uniting them through a shared love of horses and an unwavering spirit of support.

And this year, it truly ended with a fairytale finish.

Kevin Babington Foundation Links

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament Links

For Immediate Release: 02/04/2025

Windstar Cruises Raises the Stakes with a Special Prize for the MIDA Farm Benefit Classic

After making waves with their first announcement into the equestrian community, yacht-style cruise line joins the Kevin Babington Foundation to promote participation and support for upcoming fundraising event 

After making headline news with the groundbreaking collaboration with Grand Prix rider Kelli Cruciotti Vanderveen and Serenity Farm Show Stables, Windstar Cruises has joined the Kevin Babington Foundation by donating a SPECTACULAR prize for the winner of the upcoming MIDA Farm Babington Benefit Classic.

What is this spectacular prize you ask?

The winner of the MIDA Farm Babington Benefit Classic will receive a Mediterranean Cruise for Two!!

That’s right, get ready to pack your bags for an out of this world holiday getaway. This isn’t your average cruise—it’s a private yacht-style journey designed for those who want an elevated experience without the fuss of formality. Sail to breathtaking destinations including the Mediterranean year-round, unwind in intimate surroundings, and enjoy personalized service designed for those who appreciate relaxed elegance at sea.

“I am elated to have Windstar Cruises taking such an interest in our amazing equestrian community,” says foundation Chairman Jeff Papows. “This prize takes this Benefit Class to a whole new level! It makes me want to saddle up my horses and compete for this incredible prize. A stunning lack of talent notwithstanding.”

The MIDA Farm Babington Benefit Classic is more than just a benefit class, it is a profound opportunity for riders within the show jumping community to come together, have some fun competing with one another and show their support of Kevin. On this day we ALL ride for Kevin, for Johnathon, for Kim, for Alexis, for David, for our brothers and sisters.

“Kevin has always been an inspiration to us riders, even long before the accident,” says Kelli Cruciotti Vanderveen. “Opportunities like this—to ride on a stunning grass field while supporting Kevin—are incredibly rewarding and enjoyable. I knew I had to involve Windstar and introduce them to this incredible foundation. I’m thrilled to see their enthusiastic support. I will be bringing some of our young horses to come and compete…see you all there!”

Competition will be tough this year with what is sure to be a return of the two-time winner, Jordan Coyle. To set the stage for this exciting event will be none other than world-renowned course designer Leopoldo Palacios, who will create a fun and stress-free 1.30m course.

After the Babington Benefit Classic concludes, an award ceremony and elegant reception will take place at Victoria’s home on MIDA Farm at 6:00 PM. Guests will enjoy captivating live music, exceptional cuisine prepared by the renowned Kevin Rose, and the highlight of the evening—Kevin and Victoria presenting the awards, including the prestigious Windstar Cruises prize, to the event’s winner.

Date: February 25, 2025

Start Time: 10:00 AM

Hang Out and Watch with Kevin Babington? OF COURSE!

Horse Registration: Click Here

Event Height: 1.30m

Address: 13801 40th St S, Wellington, FL 33414
Arena Type: Grass… AMAZING Grass

Prize to the Winner: Mediterranean Cruise for Two on Windstar Cruises (Nov – March), good through March 2026

Find more information on Windstar Cruises here.

Windstar Contacts:

Sarah Scoltock, Director of Public Relations, Windstar Cruises / sarah.scoltock@windstarcruises.com

Claire Skinner, Vice President, LDPR / windstar@ldpr.com

About Windstar Cruises:   

With a fleet of seven boutique all-suite and sailing yachts, each carrying between 148 to 342 guests, Windstar Cruises, voted #1 boutique cruise line, offers an intimate experience like no other. Guests can explore enchanting destinations across Europe, the Caribbean, Costa Rica and the Panama Canal, Alaska, Canada and New England, South America, Japan, and the South Pacific. Plus, Windstar operates year-round in Europe and will offer two unique ship experiences in Tahiti starting in 2027. Windstar will introduce two new ships to its Star Class beginning with Star Seeker in December 2025 and followed by Star Explorer in December 2026. At Windstar Cruises, it’s not just about travel – it’s about creating experiences that resonate with the soul. With port-intensive itineraries, iconic destinations, exceptional service, and an innovative culinary program, every moment with Windstar is an opportunity for discovery and delight.

Windstar Cruises is proud to be part of the Xanterra Travel Collection®, a distinguished group of global hospitality and travel companies with a legacy that spans over a hundred years operating our country’s iconic national parks, including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Glacier, Death Valley, and many others. Xanterra Travel Collection®, is owned by The Anschutz Corporation, the ultimate owner of the Broadmoor, Sea Island, and entertainment giant AEG, Anschutz Entertainment Group.

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