Kevin Babington was born and raised in County Tipperary, Ireland in 1968. His exposure to horses began at an early age on his family farm in County Kerry. Kevin's abilities were brought to the attention of Irish International Show Jumping champion Iris Kellet. Iris worked with Kevin for many years. In 1987 Kevin moved to the United States and worked with US Olympic Veterans Frank and Mary Chapot. They encouraged Kevin and introduced him to North American Show Jumping.

Kevin's drive to succeed, strong work ethic and competitive nature led him to develop his own business. He began to show on the Grand Prix Circuit under his own farm banner. A winner of numerous Grand Prix in the US, Kevin has also represented Ireland's International Team since 1996.

Road To Athens

Four years ago Kevin and Carling King were slotted for an Olympic debut for Ireland, however, the Irish Federation decided the top Irish horses were too inexperienced for the Olympic games. Accordingly, Kevin has spent the last four years competing in Europe at the top shows in the world in preparation for the 2004 games.

With the experience afforded by two European Championships and one World Championship Kevin and King should have enough experience to reach their goal at Athens.

Career Highlights

• 2001-Gold Medalist in the European Championships in Arnhem, Netherlands
• 2003-Second in $150,000 AGA Championship
• 2003-Nations Cup wins in Aachen and St. Gallen
• 2003-First in King George V Cup, Hickstead, England.
• 2003- First in Monmouth Grand Prix· 2002-Finished 8th at the WEG in Spain
• 2001-Member of winning Nations Cups in Washington D.C., Calgary, Toronto, Hickstead, Rotterdam, and Lummen.
• Winner of several Grand Prix in the US in 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2002
• Leading International Rider in 1999, 2000, and 2001 in Madison Square Garden Horse Show
• In 2000, Member of winning Nations Cups at Hickstead, Rotterdam, Calgary, and Lummen.
• As of 2004 Kevin has ridden on 25 Nations Cup Teams for Ireland