Riders From Around the World Dance to Support the Kevin Babington Foundation
Wellington, Fla. — March 31, 2023 – The equestrian community gathered for a night of entertainment to share their love and support at the 3rd annual Kevin Babington Foundation Sunday, March 26th. Owner of Eye Candy Farms, Erica Hatfield, welcomed over 475 guests to her spectacular Wellington property. The foundations most successful fundraiser featured top athletes and industry professionals who came together to strut their stuff on the stage.
Founded in 2019, The Kevin Babington Foundation provides funding and support for equestrian show-jumping athletes who sustain spinal cord injuries. In addition to providing financial assistance, the foundation strives to educate riders, trainers, and show organizers about the most current safety measures designed to reduce the risk of serious injuries that can occur while riding.
“The unfortunate thing about [show jumping] is that it’s the world’s most beautiful sport, but it’s also one of the most dangerous sports,” remarks Jeff Papows, Chairman of the Kevin Babington Foundation. “When the unfortunate happens, and you’re living your worst nightmare, you need somebody there who’s by your side.” Papows does just that with the foundation by not only supporting a friend who means so much to him but also by ensuring others in similar situations get the financial and emotional support they deserve.
Another friend of the Babington family and now a leader in the fight for spinal cord injury research is Victoria McCullough. Through her participation and support in the Kevin Babington Foundation, McCullough has worked to submit a new law into the Florida legislation called “Kevin’s Law” which will require riders to wear air vests when competing in the state of Florida. The goal of this law is to help prevent spinal cord injuries and other related injuries that can occur from a fall.
The Kevin Babington Foundation is also actively looking for individuals to come forward to nominate a deserving equestrian in need of a trained service dog. Bliss has been in extensive training and is looking for an equestrian to take care of. For more information, contact Jeff Papows.
Thank all who took the time to come out and support Kevin and his family.
