Defender Kentucky Entries Release Show
In the first episode of the Inside Kentucky series for 2025, we bring together a team of people of tasked with writing about and covering the show - Piper Klemm (The Plaid Horse), Kim Loushin (Chronicle of the Horse), Sally Spickard (Eventing Nation), Gemma Redrup (Horse & Hound) and Annie Bishop (the US Equestrian Open Podcast).
The entries are in — and the five-star field is packed. Michael Jung and fischerChipmunk FRH lead the headlines as the reigning Olympic champs return to Kentucky. But not everyone on the pod was fully won over. While his record is nearly untouchable, fischerChipmunk still seems to lack that emotional fan bond some past greats inspired — a sentiment echoed by several contributors. Still, respect for his quality is unanimous. He set the record winning score at CCI5* level here and a win would make it 5 for Michael at the venue.
Enter JL Dublin and Tom McEwen, the Gemma Redrup pick for redemption. Twice second at Kentucky, Dublin looks ready to finally claim his five-star crown. Strong in all three phases and heartbreakingly close last year, the team agreed: if anyone is poised to dethrone Chipmunk, it’s Tom and Dublin. But don’t sleep on Commando 3. Boyd Martin’s rising star could give the U.S. a fairytale win if he delivers across the board.
Falco and Tim Price, as consistent as ever, are back. Harry Meade brings a string that could thrive if conditions turn tough. And U.S. talent is on the rise: Annie Bishop pointed out a wave of first-time five-star riders entering the spotlight, a huge sign of depth and future promise for American eventing.
And if the five-star wasn't enough, the four-star short is a headline-maker in its own right. Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake top the Prediction Center and could be building toward something even bigger: Aachen 2026. Watch for Hallie Coon and Cute Girl and a quietly strong group of up-and-comers ready to make noise.
Call to Action:
This is shaping up to be one of the most exciting Kentuckys in recent memory — with Olympic champions, fan favorites, and future stars all in the mix. Want to see the full list of contenders?
Check out the official entry list on the Kentucky website and listen to the full Inside Kentucky podcast episode here. The countdown is officially on.