Will Coleman and Off The Record. Photo by Tilly Berendt.
Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI), has selected Justin’s Place, a therapeutic horse farm in Wilmore, KY, dedicated to supporting children with disabilities and disorders and their families, as the Official Charity of the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™. The event returns to the Kentucky Horse Park, April 24-27.
Produced by Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI), a non-profit, charitable organization that supports the development of equestrian sports by staging sporting events at the highest level, the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian features one of only seven annual 5* three-day events in the world. Known as “The Best Weekend All Year,” the event annually attracts nearly 90,000 spectators who also enjoy extensive shopping, a variety of hospitality experiences and a wide array of demonstrations. In addition to the traditional CCI5*-L, the event also features the Cosequin® Lexington 4* and Kentucky International CSI5* presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute.
The core mission of Justin’s Place is to create a nurturing space where children with disabilities and disorders can connect with horses and experience emotional and physical benefits. Established in memory of Justin King, a compassionate young man who had a deep affection for children with different abilities, the farm provides a serene environment where extraordinary children can find peace and joy through equine-assisted services.
Programs include Barn Buddies, a weekly session for children aged 3-12 that features therapeutic horseback riding, sensory petting zoo interactions and educational games. Another program, Stable Moments, pairs adoptive or foster children with trauma-informed mentors and horses for one-on-one sessions that foster healing and personal growth. The Vaulting Club introduces participants to gymnastics and dance on horseback, improving confidence, body awareness and teamwork. In addition to these structured programs, Justin’s Place offers community programs such as field trips, special education experiences and professional development workshops for educators.
“For decades, EEI has donated to multiple charities that serve our local community and the equestrian industry, and we are thrilled to support Justin’s Place as this year’s Official Charity,” said Molly Day, EEI Executive Director. “They work tirelessly to provide a safe environment for extraordinary children in Central Kentucky to help them experience the joy of horses, and we are proud to support their amazing programs.”
“Justin’s Place is honored to be featured at the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event!” said Allie Barnett, Executive Director of Justin’s Place. “We look forward to sharing our mission of bringing joy to children in Central Kentucky who need it most through the power of horses.”
More information can be found at https://www.justinsplaceky.com/.
