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EVENT UPDATE: MIDA BABINGTON BENEFIT CLASSIC NOW 1.20M
Updated Class Height Creates an Even More Fun and Impact-Driven Competition for Riders, Horses, and the Entire Community
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wellington, FL – Feb. 10, 2026
The Kevin Babington Foundation is excited to announce an important update to the upcoming 2026 MIDA Babington Benefit Classic, taking place on February 17, 2026 at the iconic MIDA Farm.
In response to overwhelming interest from riders across the community, the official class height has been updated to an Inviting & Fun 1.20m, creating an even more inclusive and welcoming competition for both professionals and amateurs.
This meaningful update reflects what the MIDA Babington Benefit Classic has always stood for—bringing the entire show jumping community together in support of show jumping athletes affected by life-altering spinal cord injuries.
Event Details
Event Date: February 17, 2026
Location: MIDA Farm, Wellington, Florida
Class Start Time: 10:00 AM
Updated Class Specs: Inviting & Fun 1.20m
Awards & Reception Ceremony: 6:00 PM
With this adjustment, the MIDA Babington Benefit Classic is now ideally positioned as a class for riders at every stage—while also offering a tremendous opportunity for younger horses looking to gain valuable grass ring experience in a supportive, relaxed, and professionally run environment.
The event remains open to **all riders—professionals and amateurs alike—**and continues to be one of the most accessible and meaningful benefit classes of the winter season.
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A Tradition Built on Inclusion
The MIDA Babington Benefit Classic has become a cherished tradition because it is rooted in one simple idea: everyone belongs.
Each entry directly supports the mission of the Kevin Babington Foundation, helping provide funding and access to rehabilitation, recovery, and support services for show jumping athletes navigating life after spinal cord injury.
“This class has always been about inclusion,” said Jeff Papows, Chairman of the Kevin Babington Foundation. “The MIDA Babington Benefit Classic welcomes professionals, amateurs, and developing horses alike. When everyone can participate, everyone becomes part of the impact—and that’s what makes this event so special.”
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A Perfect Class for Developing Horses
With its updated 1.20m height and world-class grass footing, the 2026 MIDA Babington Benefit Classic also offers an outstanding setting for younger horses stepping into grass ring competition. Riders and trainers alike recognize the event as a rare opportunity to combine meaningful sport with purposeful preparation—while supporting a cause that directly serves fellow athletes.
A Celebration Worthy of the Cause
Following the conclusion of the class, riders, owners, trainers, and supporters will gather back at MIDA Farm for the highly anticipated awards ceremony and reception at 6:00 PM. The evening celebration has become a hallmark of the event—bringing the community together to recognize great sport, reconnect with friends, and celebrate the collective impact made through generosity and compassion.
Join Us
Riders and supporters are encouraged to complete their sign-up forms now and be part of this special day at MIDA Farm.
Together, the show jumping community continues to prove that when everyone joins in, the impact is stronger—and the mission moves forward.
Updated Class Specs: Inviting & Fun 1.20m
Sign-up forms for the 2026 MIDA Babington Benefit Classic are now available on the Kevin Babington Foundation website.
For more information about the Kevin Babington Foundation or to get involved, please visit
www.KevinBabingtonFoundation.org
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Kevin’s Rockstars 2026 Tickets LIVE!!
The cost of spinal cord recovery has never been higher, and insurance rarely covers the extensive rehab, travel, equipment, and home modifications required for long-term recovery.
That’s where KBF steps in — and why fundraising efforts like Kevin’s Rockstars 2026 are more important than ever.
“The support has been incredible this year,” said Jeff Papows, Chairman of the Foundation. “But as we go into the winter season, when equestrian sport is at its peak, continued fundraising is essential. Your support helps save lives — and we need you.”
🎟️ Tickets are now live for Kevin’s Rockstars Lip Sync & Fundraiser 2026.
Last year’s event sold out — don’t wait to be part of something that changes lives.
🎟 Tickets Now Available
Don’t wait. This event WILL SELL OUT!
Reserve your spot today: Purchase Tickets Here
VIP and General Admission options available.
📅 Event Details:
Kevin’s Rockstars Lip Sync and Fundraiser
🗓 Sunday, March 8, 2026
📍 Eyecandyland Farm, Wellington, Florida
🎉 Cocktails, Cuisine, and the Best Night of the Season
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Other Ways to Donate
Your support powers our mission to protect, uplift, and empower riders through recovery assistance, safety advocacy, and education. Here’s how you can help:
💻 Donate Online
Make a secure one-time or recurring donation via our website:
👉 https://kevinbabingtonfoundation.org/donations/
✉️ Mail a Check
Checks can be made payable to:
Kevin Babington Foundation
10 Edgewood Rd.,
Westwood, MA 02090-3136 USA
💼 Corporate or Matching Gifts
Many companies will match your donation. Ask your HR department if your employer participates—or contact us and we’ll help facilitate the process.
🏅 Sponsor an Event
Become a sponsor of one of our upcoming 2026 events (MIDA Farm Classic, Kevin’s Rockstars, or Live Oak International).
To learn more, email us at: contact@kevinbabingtonfoundation.org
Benefits of Giving Before December 31st
Giving before the end of the calendar year provides significant tax advantages and directly fuels our winter programming.
✅ Tax Deduction
The Kevin Babington Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN: 85-2059430). All contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
⏳ Timing Matters
Donations made on or before December 31st, 2025 may be claimed on your 2025 tax return—providing potential savings while supporting a great cause.
🔁 Recurring Gifts Multiply Impact
Consider making your donation a monthly recurring gift to sustain our mission year-round with less effort and greater long-term impact.
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Women’s: Don’t Stop Believin’ Next Level Tri-Blend T-shirt
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SAFEFIT Airbag Vest – Kevin Babington Foundation Edition
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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.
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