John Deere has been reinstated as the Official Equipment Provider for the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™, marking a significant partnership with Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI). The event, scheduled to take place at the esteemed Kentucky Horse Park from April 24-27, is renowned as one of the world’s seven annual 5* three-day events. Drawing nearly 90,000 spectators annually, the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event offers a thrilling showcase of equestrian sports, featuring top-tier competitions like the CCI5*-L, Cosequin® Lexington 4*, and the Kentucky International CSI5* presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute.

Molly Day, the Executive Director of EEI, expressed enthusiasm about John Deere’s continued involvement, emphasizing the company’s esteemed reputation in the equine industry. Deere & Company, a global leader in agricultural, turf, construction, and forestry equipment, is recognized for its innovative products like the John Deere Autonomous 8R Tractor and See & Spray™, which contribute to enhancing productivity and sustainability in various sectors.

Steve Driskill, the Vice President of NTRA Advantage & Equine Discounts, highlighted the significance of John Deere’s role as the official equipment provider for the prestigious event. The collaboration between John Deere and the NTRA Advantage Equine Discounts program aims to provide substantial savings to the Sporthorse industry, fostering the growth and development of the sport.

The Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, often referred to as “The Best Weekend All Year,” features a captivating equestrian triathlon where horse and rider pairs compete in Dressage, Cross-Country, and Show Jumping phases for a total prize purse of $400,000 at the CCI5*-L level. This event stands as the largest and longest-running Five Star event in the Americas, serving as the Defender/USEF CCI5*-L Eventing National Championship presented by MARS Equestrian for U.S. athletes. Rolex is the Official Timepiece and Event Partner of this prestigious competition.

Additionally, the Cosequin® Lexington 4*-S, introduced in 2021, runs parallel to the CCI5*-L competition, offering a platform for riders to showcase their skills across the three eventing phases. With $50,000 in prize money, the Cosequin® Lexington 4*-S also serves as a US Equestrian Open Eventing Series Qualifier, providing an exciting opportunity for participants to compete at a high level.

The Kentucky International CSI5* presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, previously known as the Kentucky Invitational, has evolved into a highly anticipated international show jumping event. In 2025, EEI will make history by hosting both a CCI5*-L and CSI5* in the same week, solidifying its position as a leading event organizer on the global equestrian stage.

Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI) stands as a non-profit charitable organization dedicated to promoting equestrian sports and hosting world-class events like the Kentucky Three-Day Event. Over the years, EEI has made significant contributions to the equine community, supporting local charities and initiatives aimed at advancing the sport. For more information about EEI and its upcoming events, visit their official website.