In celebration of the 2024 Olympic Games, Road to the Horse 2024 will feature an international lineup of three world-class competitors, showcasing talented colt starters from around the globe. Road to the Horse is thrilled to select these stand-out athletes who will represent their country as they compete for the World Championship of Colt Starting: Ken McNabb (USA), Donal Hancock (Australia) and Tik Maynard (Canada). These three championship competitors will be joined by the Wild Card Challenge champion, allowing a total of four colt starters to compete for $125,000 in prize money and horsemanship’s most prominent title on March 21-24 at the Kentucky Horse Park.
“We’re excited to add an international flavor to Road to the Horse 2024” states Morris Equine Group President Tina Battock. “These experienced competitors, who all continue to refine their colt-starting skills, will put a lifetime of horsemanship experience to the test, and we can’t wait to follow them on their journey. Combine these talented athletes with our Wild Card Challenge Champion, and the stage is set for a historic Road to the Horse event!”
Ken McNabb – USA
Representing the United States is Wyoming horseman and rancher Ken McNabb — a lifelong cowboy who grew up in a traditional ranching community with strong family values, a commitment to patriotism and faith in Christ. Ken is known for creating a unique environment where each horse is trained using gentle methods, and the rider is coached to become their best. Ken has spent the last 26 years traveling the United States from coast-to-coast, teaching and hosting horsemanship clinics and events.
Donal Hancock – Australia
From the outback of Australia, Donal Hancock is proud to represent his homeland. Donal grew up in a remote part of Australia on a cattle station known as Saddlers Springs, where riding was as necessary as walking. His quest for knowledge led him to America, where he apprenticed under Double Dan Horsemanship. In 2016, upon his return to Australia, Donal founded Hancock Horsemanship and is now a respected Australian colt starter, trainer, and clinician as he continues to teach, show, and train.
Tik Maynard – Canada
Canadian three-day event rider Tik Maynard is no stranger to international competition. Tik competed full time in the sport of modern pentathlon. A Canadian National Team member and two-time National Championship winner, Tik competed at multiple World Cups, World Championships, and at the 2007 Pan-Am Games in Rio. Tik’s passion is three-day eventing, where he was listed for the Canadian National Three-Day Eventing Team. A trainer, clinician and author, Tik is married to USA Three-Day Eventing Olympic Team member, Sinead Maynard.
Wild Card Challenge – Pen Wrangler Edition
In addition to the World Championship action, fans will witness the first ever Pen Wrangler Edition of the Wild Card Challenge, where three past Road to the Horse Pen Wranglers will finally have their chance to step into the round pen and showcase their colt starting skills. Turning the tables, the past championship competitor that the Pen Wrangler assisted will be the Pen Wrangler for this challenge.
The Wild Card Challenge will precede the World Championship of Colt Starting Competition, starting on Thursday, March 21, and will conclude on Friday, March 22, 2024. This will allow the champion of the Wild Card Challenge the chance to step directly into a championship competitor position.
Hosting both the Wild Card Challenge and the World Championship Competition at Road to the Horse 2024, will allow fans to enjoy an expanded array of diverse talent, along with educational clinics, demonstrations and world class entertainment.
Road to the Horse 2024 takes place at the Kentucky Horse Park on March 21-24. Tickets are available here or by calling 800-514-3849. Follow Road to the Horse on Facebook for the latest information.
