Equestrian Events
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The Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, organized by Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI), stands as one of the most prestigious 5* eventing competitions in the world—a can’t-miss stop on the international eventing calendar. Held annually on the last weekend in April in Lexington, Kentucky, this iconic event draws the top horse-and-rider pairs from around the globe for a thrilling showcase of elite equestrian sport.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Running concurrently are the Cosequin® Lexington CCI4* and the Kentucky International CSI5* presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, transforming the weekend into a triple feature of world-class competition. Attendees also enjoy exclusive shopping, tailgating, kids activities, and a wide variety of food options that span the entire week of the event, alongside unique attractions and premium sponsor activations found only at this event.
As a non-profit charitable organization, EEI is dedicated to advancing equestrian sport by producing top-level competitions, supporting the development of riders and horses, and strengthening the international competitiveness of the United States.
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2026 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event
- Presented By: Equestrian Events
- Location: Kentucky Horse Park
- April 22, 2026 - April 25, 2026
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