Kent Farrington and Orafina Fly to Victory in $62,500 Spring Classic CSI3*

Fresh off claiming the top spot in the Longines World Rankings, Kent Farrington proved exactly why he’s the man to beat, piloting Orafina to a commanding win in the $62,500 Spring Classic CSI3* at the Kentucky Spring Horse Show. 

The Rolex Stadium buzzed with anticipation as 68 top international contenders gathered to kick off FEI competition — but in the end, it was Farrington’s signature speed and precision that stole the show.

With only four riders advancing to Bernardo Costa Cabral’s tough jump-off track, the pressure was on. Early on, Ireland’s Shane Sweetnam set the pace with a tidy clear aboard Coriaan Van Klapscheut Z in 43.44 seconds. Francisco Goyoaga Mollet upped the ante aboard Stakato Cornet with a bold 40.86-second trip, but Farrington and Orafina had other plans.

Slicing corners and charging down the final line with fearless efficiency, Farrington crossed the timers in a blazing 37.50 seconds—nearly three seconds ahead of Mollet—to take an undisputed lead. 

This latest win marks yet another triumph at the Kentucky Horse Park for Farrington, who also claimed the $400,000 Kentucky International CSI5* Grand Prix with Greya just days ago. With Orafina, his electric 12-year-old KWPN mare, showing top form, Farrington heads into the remainder of the Kentucky Spring circuit with undeniable momentum and the World No. 1 title well-earned.