Organization Behind Kentucky Three-Day Event Names New CEO from Within

Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI) has appointed Vanessa Coleman as the non-profit organization's CEO, effective immediately.

EEI produces the annual Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian (K3DE), the nation’s premier eventing competition and one of only seven annual 5* three-day events (CCI5*-L) in the world, as well as the Cosequin® Lexington CCI4*-S and Kentucky International CSI5* presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, all on the same weekend.

Coleman's previous roles with EEI

Coleman, who had been serving as EEI’s Chief Competition and Operating Officer, worked closely with former CEO Molly Day, who left to take a newly created position of Director of Eventing & Driving with the FEI (International Equestrian Federation) starting in February.

Coleman had been EEI’s Senior Director of Competition since 2013. Prior, she served as Director of Ticketing and and transitioned to lead Sponsorship in 2012.

EEI Board of Directors statement on Coleman's appointment

“The EEI Board feels strongly that there is no better person to lead our organization than Vanessa,” said Prim Hudgins, President of the EEI Board of Directors. “She is respected and liked by virtually everyone who knows her and there is no doubt that her appointment will be well received by the entire Eventing community, both in the U.S. and around the world.”

Coleman's background

While living outside Kentucky for nearly 20 years, Coleman worked as an accountant, ran her own barn, and organized a local horse trial. She returned every year to volunteer at the Kentucky Three-Day Event for her mother, who was the Chief Steward of horse inspection. She began volunteering for the Event during her time as a member of the Keeneland Pony Club and also gained experience grooming for a competitor. In 2008, Coleman moved back to the area. Then-Event Director Janie Atkinson asked her to help with the event and Coleman has been on staff ever since.

Coleman has been an eventer most of her life and owns two horses, Rooster and Schoo.

The above is an edited press release.

Photo: Vanessa Coleman and Rooster

Photo courtesy of Equestrian Events, Inc.