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