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KBF Brings Its Mission to Live Oak International
A World-Class Stage, A Powerful Purpose
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wellington, FL – Feb. 24, 2026
The Kevin Babington Foundation (KBF) is proud to continue its 2026 season of impact at one of the most prestigious events in international equestrian sport—Live Oak International—where the Foundation’s mission will be highlighted through the CSI4* $63,000 Live Oak International Qualifier Presented by The Club at Iron Lake.
Taking place during Live Oak International, March 12–15, 2026, the Grand Prix Qualifier on Friday afternoon will stand as one of the week’s most meaningful and highly anticipated competitions. Now marking 35 years as one of the sport’s most respected and enduring events, Live Oak International provides a fitting stage for a class that plays a defining role in setting the tone for elite sport, exceptional horsemanship, and the powerful sense of community the event has fostered for more than three decades.
Live Oak International Site and Ticketing Information
Hosted on one of the sport’s most iconic stages, the Grand Prix Qualifier in support of the Kevin Babington Foundation brings together top athletes, owners, and supporters for a competition that blends world-class show jumping with a deeper purpose—supporting riders affected by life-altering spinal cord injuries.
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A Natural Partnership
The inclusion of the Kevin Babington Foundation within Live Oak International reflects a shared belief that the sport’s greatest moments extend beyond competition alone.
Each time the Kevin Babington Foundation Jump is cleared successfully by competitors during Friday’s qualifier, a percentage will be given to charity and directly supports the mission of the Kevin Babington Foundation—providing financial assistance, access to care, and meaningful pathways forward for show jumping athletes navigating recovery after spinal cord injury. Set within a week defined by excellence, tradition, and international-caliber sport, the Grand Prix Qualifier serves as a powerful reminder of the impact this community can create together.
A Week That Defines Excellence
Live Oak International is celebrated worldwide for its unique ability to unite elite show jumping and combined driving in a single, unforgettable event. From beautifully curated grounds and top-tier competition to an atmosphere that welcomes fans, families, and professionals alike, Live Oak International offers a week unlike any other on the equestrian calendar.
The Grand Prix Qualifier in support of the Kevin Babington Foundation stands as a highlight of that experience—where sport, purpose, and generosity intersect on a global stage.
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Join Us at Live Oak International
📅 March 12–15, 2026
📍 Live Oak International – Ocala, Florida
To learn more about Live Oak International, including event schedules, tickets, and on-site experiences, visit:
Live Oak International Site and Ticketing Information
To learn more about the Kevin Babington Foundation, upcoming Babington Benefit Classes, or ways to get involved, visit:
www.KevinBabingtonFoundation.org
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Kevin’s Rockstars 2026 Tickets LIVE!!
The cost of spinal cord recovery has never been higher, and insurance rarely covers the extensive rehab, travel, equipment, and home modifications required for long-term recovery.
That’s where KBF steps in — and why fundraising efforts like Kevin’s Rockstars 2026 are more important than ever.
“The support has been incredible this year,” said Jeff Papows, Chairman of the Foundation. “But as we go into the winter season, when equestrian sport is at its peak, continued fundraising is essential. Your support helps save lives — and we need you.”
🎟️ Tickets are now live for Kevin’s Rockstars Lip Sync & Fundraiser 2026.
Last year’s event sold out — don’t wait to be part of something that changes lives.
🎟 Tickets Now Available
Don’t wait. This event WILL SELL OUT!
Reserve your spot today: Purchase Tickets Here
VIP and General Admission options available.
📅 Event Details:
Kevin’s Rockstars Lip Sync and Fundraiser
🗓 Sunday, March 8, 2026
📍 Eyecandyland Farm, Wellington, Florida
🎉 Cocktails, Cuisine, and the Best Night of the Season
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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, 2025 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.
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Women’s: Don’t Stop Believin’ Next Level Tri-Blend T-shirt
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SAFEFIT Airbag Vest – Kevin Babington Foundation Edition
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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.
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