It’s that time again — the road to Kentucky is officially underway. With entries for the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event now confirmed, we’ve gathered an all-star panel for a special reaction episode. From Olympic champions to home team hopefuls, we break down the biggest names, the fan favourites, and the breakout combinations that could define this year’s five-star.

With fischerChipmunk FRH and Michael Jung returning to U.S. soil, the question is simple: can anyone stop them? Respect for Chipmunk’s record is unanimous, but not every panellist is fully won over. From JL Dublin and Commando 3 to a standout four-star field featuring Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake, there’s no shortage of storylines—and a few surprises—in the mix.

Highlights:

• The Chipmunk Effect – Will Michael Jung’s return to Kentucky end in another win—or is the fairy tale fading?
• Dublin’s Redemption Arc – Tom McEwen’s powerhouse looks ready to turn two second-place finishes into a five-star title.
• U.S. Stars to Watch – Boyd Martin’s Commando 3 could deliver a home win, while a deep U.S. field brings exciting new names.
• Four-Star Short Forecast – Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake top the Prediction Center, with Hallie Coon, Alyssa Phillips, and others ready to challenge.
• The Heart vs. the Numbers – What makes a Kentucky favourite? The horses, the stats—or the stories behind them?

Guests:

• Annie Bishop – Host of the US Equestrian Open Podcast
• Sally Spickard – Managing Editor at Eventing Nation
• Kimberly Loushin – Senior Reporter at The Chronicle of the Horse
• Piper Klemm – Owner and Publisher of The Plaid Horse
• Gemma Redrup – Digital Features Editor at Horse & Hound
• Diarm Byrne – Co-founder of EquiRatings

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