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News
Lexington, Ky., April 27, 2025 — Germany’s Michael Jung and FischerChipmunk FRH cantered into Sunday’s show jumping test at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™ (K3DE) with 11.8 faults in hand over their fellow competitors. Though they dropped one rail on course, they still had enough cushion to finish comfortably in first and secure Jung’s fifth Kentucky victory with a score of 25.0. World #10 Boyd Martin (USA) chased Jung the whole way, finishing his stellar weekend in second place with Commando 3 (32.8), sixth with Fedarman B (40.6), and seventh with Luke 140 (44.7). World #4 Harry Meade (GBR) finished third and fourth with Et Hop Du Matz (34.2) and Grafennacht (39.6), respectively. Et Hop Du Matz was the only horse to complete the weekend on his dressage score. Produced by Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI), a non-profit, charitable organization that supports the development of equestrian sports by staging sporting events at the highest level, the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian features one of only seven annual 5* three-day events in the world. Known as “The Best Weekend All Year,” the event annually attracts nearly 90,000 spectators who also enjoy extensive shopping, a variety of hospitality experiences and a wide array of demonstrations. In addition to the traditional CCI5*-L, the event also features the Cosequin ® Lexington 4* and the Kentucky International CSI5* presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute.
Lexington, Ky., April 26, 2025— Forty horse-and-rider pairs challenged the $400,000 Kentucky International CSI5* Grand Prix presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute on Saturday, with nine entries moving forward to the jump-off. But it was the first to return over the shortened course — World #2 Kent Farrington (USA) aboard Greya — who claimed top honors with a blazing double-clear round in 42.93 seconds. Two-time Irish Olympian Shane Sweetnam was second aboard James Kann Cruz (0/0/45.00), and Mimi Gochman of the U.S. was third riding Inclen BH (0/0/46.06). Farrington gave all the credit to the horse he calls a quintessential modern show jumper. “She’s incredibly fast, super careful, and a fighter,” he said. “She’s a real winner in her heart and an incredible horse, and I’m so proud of her tonight.” The Kentucky International CSI5* is hosted as part of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™ (K3DE). Produced by Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI), a non-profit, charitable organization that supports the development of equestrian sports by staging sporting events at the highest level, the K3DE features one of only seven annual 5* three-day events in the world. Known as “The Best Weekend All Year,” the event annually attracts nearly 90,000 spectators who also enjoy extensive shopping, a variety of hospitality experiences and a wide array of demonstrations. In addition to the traditional CCI5*-L and the Kentucky International CSI5* show jumping event, the K3DE also features the Cosequin® Lexington 4*, a US Equestrian Open Eventing Series Qualifier.
Lexington, Ky., April 26, 2025— Germany’s Michael Jung and FischerChipmunk FRH not only retained their first place after Saturday’s cross-country phase at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™ (K3DE), but they also opened a wider gap between themselves and the rest of the field. Despite their 2.4 time penalties on cross-country, they now hold an 11.8-point lead over World #10 Boyd Martin (USA) and Commando 3 in second (32.8), with World #4 Harry Meade (GBR) aboard Et Hop Du Matz sitting in third (34.2). That 11.8 gap is the widest lead anyone has ever had going into the final phase of a CCI5*-L. Produced by Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI), a non-profit, charitable organization that supports the development of equestrian sports by staging sporting events at the highest level, the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™ features one of only seven annual 5* three-day events in the world. Known as “The Best Weekend All Year,” the event annually attracts nearly 90,000 spectators who also enjoy extensive shopping, a variety of hospitality experiences and a wide array of demonstrations. In addition to the traditional CCI5*-L, the event also features the Cosequin® Lexington 4* and the Kentucky International CSI5* presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. Jung, World #12, reigning Olympic champion and four-time Kentucky champion, went early in the day and had a smooth, flowing round with the 17-year-old Hanoverian gelding owned by a consortium including Joachim Jung, DOKR (the German Olympic Committee), Klaus and Sabine Fischer and the horse’s breeder Dr. Hilmer Meyer-Kulenkampff. They were clearly working hard to make the time but didn’t quite get there. “I had a great day and a super ride with FischerChipmunk,” Jung said. “He’s an amazing horse, super to ride in the dressage, very calm, but on cross-country, he’s full of energy. He went very well, galloping with a big stride. He’s very honest, and I can really trust him. We get better and better together. We’re still learning, but we have a great partnership. “He felt a bit tired in some places today, so I gave him a bit of time,” he continued. “I knew I was a bit behind [on time], but he was galloping well to the end of the course, so I knew he was really fit to make it. I’m really happy about today.”
Inside Kentucky Podcast
The first five-star of the year is done and dusted — and Michael Jung has officially made history. In this episode, Nicole Brown is joined by Diarmuid Byrne and Annie Bishop to break down all the big stories from the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event: Mickey’s record fifth Kentucky title, Boyd Martin’s epic weekend with three in the top seven, Harry Meade’s masterclass across the country, and a few warm and fuzzy moments that reminded us why we love this sport. From dressage dominance to that one early rail that gave us 15 seconds of jeopardy, they cover it all — plus, they take a look at the shifting US eventing landscape, future stars to watch, and why Kentucky just hits differently. Whether you were there soaking it in or following from home, this is your full wrap-up of an unforgettable weekend. Highlights : Michael Jung's historic fifth Kentucky win with fischerChipmunk FRH Boyd Martin's standout performance with three horses inside the top seven Harry Meade’s cross-country masterclass and a big weekend for Et Hop du Matz and Graffenacht Big moments for the US eventing team — and where the strength lies heading into a massive year Future stars to watch (including a few who might just steal the show in 2026 and beyond) Guests : Nicole Brown — Our host for the show, keeping the conversation moving with expert insights and all the key moments you need to know. Diarmuid Byrne — EquiRatings co-founder, bringing sharp analysis, big-picture context, and a look at what it all means for the world rankings. Annie Bishop — US eventing insider and producer, offering standout stories, and plenty of inside scoop from the heart of the action. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Catch up on all of our Inside Kentucky episodes wherever you get your podcasts.
The wait is over — the Inside Kentucky Preview Show is here. Nicole Brown and Sam Watson set the scene for one of the most competitive Defender Kentuckys we’ve seen in years. The field is stacked, the conditions could shake things up, and the storylines are electric. Can Boyd Martin finally win on home soil with one of the strongest strings he’s ever brought? Will Michael Jung and Chipmunk bounce back in style? And Tim Price and Tom McEwen are quietly turning up the heat in the world number one race. Over in the Cosequin® 4*-S, Olympic veterans and rising stars like HSH Blake and Off The Record headline a field stacked with serious contenders. This episode is everything you need to sound clever in the group chat all week long— top picks, and the numbers that matter and why this year’s Defender Kentucky is a must-follow. Highlights: Boyd’s all-in: why this is more than just another five-star for Team Martin Chipmunk and Michi — the comeback everyone’s watching World number one? Tim and Tom are both making a case Four-star form guide: Caroline and Blake, and the other combos ready to surprise One stat that shows just how close Kentucky came to rewriting the record books Guests: Nicole Brown – Eventing Podcast host Sam Watson – Data analyst, five-star rider, and co-founder of EquiRatings EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Catch up on all of our Inside Kentucky episodes wherever you get your podcasts, and stay in the loop by following Defender Kentucky on Instagram and Facebook !
He’s got 65 international wins, three powerhouse horses, and unfinished business at Defender Kentucky. In this episode of Inside Kentucky, Boyd Martin joins the show to talk about his road to the 2025 five-star — from early wins Down Under to the lessons of a career comeback after hip surgery. With Commando 3, Fedarman B, and Luke 140 all peaking at the right time, Boyd shares what it’s like chasing the dream, building the horsepower, and why Kentucky still feels like home. Plus, hear his unfiltered take on what makes the American eventing crowds the best in the world. Highlights: 65 wins and counting: Boyd’s road from Werribee to the world stage Inside the stable: How Commando 3, Fedarman B, and Luke 140 are shaping up for Kentucky Why five-star wins mean more than ever in today’s sport Honest talk: injuries, setbacks, and chasing world number one What makes Defender Kentucky so special — and how US fans steal the show Guests: Boyd Martin – US Olympic rider and 65-time international winner Hosted by Nicole Brown Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Catch up on all of our Inside Kentucky episodes wherever you get your podcasts, and stay in the loop by following Defender Kentucky on Instagram and Facebook !
Behind the Barn
In our final episode of Behind the Barn 2025, we are joined by none other than Team USA Show Jumping Olympic Medalist, Karl Cook. Join us as we dive headfirst into all things show jumping, hear his take on other Equestrian disciplines and also gain valuable insight into what people can expect in the Kentucky international CSI5* this year!
The big question is, will Michael Jung win a 5th Kentucky CCI5* title? Before he heads down the centerline this week to chase Kentucky glory once more, check out episode 11 of Behind the Barn to learn more about the Olympic Gold Medalist and overall amazing horseman, Michael Jung.
The smiling assassin is back! In episode 10 of Behind the Barn, Jessica Phoenix joins us in the hot seat for a few more laughs and a few tough questions too. Continuing to break records for Team Canada, Jessica is a fierce competitor but is also one of the nicest people you will ever meet.
Best Weekend Blog
Introducing the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event Fan Guide Whether you’re a seasoned spectator or a first-time fan, this guide is your go-to resource for navigating the biggest weekend in U.S. eventing. Inside, you’ll find: • Expert predictions and top contenders 🐎 • Phase-by-phase breakdowns 📝 • Past winners and historical highlights 🏅 • Everything you need to follow the weekend with confidence 📖 Flip through the Fan Guide and join us for an unforgettable ride at #K3DE!
Setting the Standard: Footing Results from the 2025 Cross-Country Course
Learn about this year's favorites, top horses, the strength of the field, and more.
