Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration Receives Its First International Book Award—and Kevin’s Impact Keeps Growing

Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration Receives Its First International Book Award—and Kevin’s Impact Keeps Growing

International Impact Book Awards recognizes the book with Distinguished Author honors, affirming the extraordinary power of Kevin Babington’s story to inspire readers far beyond the equestrian community

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wellington, FL – Sept. 3, 2026

 

Kevin Babington has earned countless accolades throughout his legendary career in show jumping. Now, his story has received a new kind of recognition.

 

Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration has received its first literary honor from the International Impact Book Awards, earning recognition under the organization’s Distinguished Author standard.

 

While the award officially recognizes the book and the people who wrote it, its true significance belongs to the man at the center of every page: Kevin Babington.

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“Michael and I may technically have our names on the cover, but let’s be honest—when you have a story and an inspiration like Kevin, Bert and Ernie could write an incredible book,” joked co-author Jeff Papows, PhD. “This recognition belongs to Kevin. His courage gave us the story, and the way he continues to help others gives that story its purpose.”

 

An Award Rooted in Impact

The International Impact Book Awards recognizes books that demonstrate literary and professional excellence while creating a meaningful and lasting impact on readers.

 

That makes this recognition especially fitting.

 

Kevin’s story has never simply been about winning classes, representing Ireland at the Olympic Games or reaching the pinnacle of international show jumping. It is about what happens when everything changes—and how one person chooses to move forward.

 

From his childhood in a small Irish town to the Olympic arena in Athens, Kevin built his career through sacrifice, humility, talent and an extraordinary work ethic. He established a successful life and business in the United States and became one of the most respected riders and horsemen in the sport.

 

Then, in 2019, a catastrophic fall left Kevin paralyzed and presented him with the greatest challenge of his life.

 

What followed has become an even more important part of his legacy.

 

Kevin confronted an unimaginable new reality with the same determination that carried him to the Olympic Games. His perseverance, humor, honesty and refusal to surrender have inspired people throughout the equestrian community—and increasingly, people far beyond it.

 

More Than a Story of Recovery

Kevin’s impact is not measured only by his own progress.

 

His journey helped inspire the creation and growth of the Kevin Babington Foundation, which provides financial assistance and critical resources to show jumping athletes recovering from spinal cord injuries.

 

Through the Foundation, Kevin’s experience has become a source of support for others facing the same fear, uncertainty and overwhelming financial challenges that follow a life-changing accident.

 

That is what makes this award about far more than a book.

It recognizes a story that is actively changing lives.

It recognizes the power of a community that refuses to let one of its own face recovery alone.

 

And most importantly, it recognizes that Kevin’s greatest contribution to the world may still be unfolding.

 

Turning Recognition Into Impact

Every dollar generated through the sale of Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration is contributed to the Kevin Babington Foundation and its mission of supporting injured show jumping athletes.

 

Each copy purchased helps provide meaningful assistance to athletes and families navigating life after a spinal cord injury. At the same time, every reader, review and recommendation helps carry Kevin’s message of resilience to another person who may need it.

 

The book’s first award is an important milestone—but the real achievement is the impact Kevin continues to make every day.

 

His championships defined an extraordinary career.

His courage is defining an even greater legacy.

The Kevin Babington Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to the International Impact Book Awards and to every reader who has purchased the book, shared Kevin’s story, written a review or supported the Foundation’s mission.

 

Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration is available in print, Kindle and audiobook formats.

 

Click Here to Order Babington: Triumph, Tragedy, Inspiration 

About the Kevin Babington Foundation

The Kevin Babington Foundation is dedicated to providing critical support, resources, and financial assistance to show jumping athletes who have suffered spinal cord injuries. Through the generosity of the equestrian community, the Foundation continues to create meaningful pathways forward for injured riders while advocating for safety and recovery within the sport.

Kevin Babington Foundation Links

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament Links