The very inclement weather on Sunday did not cooperate with the Kevin Babington Benefit Horse Show in New Jersey, as heavy rain moved as many classes as possible indoors, while the turnout understandably was light. But the fundraising continues for the show jumper who suffered a severe spinal injury that left him paralyzed three years ago.
The benefit show has been a tradition at Duncraven in Titusville, Mercer County, since 2019, and the new owners, the Stout family, have continued it with their generosity.
They opened the doors of their refurbished facility to the cause that has involved so many people who want to help. Kevin is able to give lessons from ringside, but he is still undergoing therapy, and the costs of that and the care he requires are astronomical.
Because of the conditions for the show, there are still raffle and silent auction items left over. They will be available next weekend at the N.J. Professional Horsemen’s Association show at Duncraven Oct. 8 and 9.
The raffle will be held during the NJPHA show for those who are present. Bids for the auction items, a Bates Arena saddle from Bucks County Saddlery and a $1,000 gift certificate from Dover Saddlery, may be made via phone with Julie Koveloski at 609-439-8983.
Julie worked with Nancy Wallis, Jen Cassidy and many others who gave their time to put on the show. She said of the day, “We really made the best of it. Whoever was showing, they showed in everything. I think we really only had 38 horses and ponies showing. The trainers were fabulous who stuck around and pretty much ran the classes. It was pretty much a group effort.”
The jump donated by Mason Garrity.
As she mentioned, the thought in everyone’s mind as the rain came down was “what would Kevin do? Kevin would trudge on and make the best of it. Everyone kind of did the same.”
Julie said “we did really well, considering the weather. Can’t ask for more than that. Duncraven and the NJPHA Fall Finale were really generous, letting us keep the raffle and silent auction items through next weekend and hopefully generate a little more for Kevin.”
Raffle items include a horsehead painting by Cecile Bruck, a handmade cherrywood table from Liz Soroka, and a jump made by Mason Garrity. Julie will be upstairs at Duncraven during the NJPHA show to handle the raffle and auction bids.
Table donated for the raffle by Liz Soroka.
She said in addition to the saddle, Bucks County also donated the majority of the champion and reserve champion gifts.
“They were very very generous,” said Julie, noting Bucks County also donated Breyer horses for the kids.
Kevin’s wife, Dianna, responded to the incredible effort by saying, “Kevin and I are incredibly thankful and feel blessed to have such support from 1home.’
“We miss everyone so much and are always overwhelmed by the love and support that remains to help him with his journey. We are also extremely appreciative for the use of Duncraven,” she added, citing the new ownership.
The Babington’s are based in Florida, but formerly lived in New Jersey.
“We will see you all next year and I hope Kevin can someday make the journey home,” Dianna added..