Road to the Horse returns to the Kentucky Horse Park, March 19–22, 2026, bringing with it the excitement, passion, and tradition that have defined the event for more than two decades. At the heart of next year’s World Championship of Colt Starting is the Wild Card Competition, set to spotlight diverse horsemanship talent from around the globe.
Starting October 8, 2025, fans will meet a new Wild Card competitor each Wednesday, leading up to the full reveal of all four challengers. The 2026 Wild Cards feature international talent from Australia and Canada, with a balanced lineup of both horsemen and horsewomen. Each competitor will step into the round pen aiming to earn a spot as a Road to the Horse Championship Competitor, where they will vie for the World Championship title.
“The Wild Card Competition is one of the most exciting aspects of Road to the Horse, and next year’s lineup promises to be truly unforgettable,” states Tina Battock, President of the Morris Equine Group. “The real magic will be watching each competitor’s emotional and transformational journey — the growth, courage, and connection they build with their horse along the way.”
The Wild Card Challenge kicks off the event on Thursday, March 19, and wraps up on Friday, March 20. As in years past, the Wild Card Champion will immediately advance to a Championship Competitor position on Friday afternoon, joining the main event lineup and competing for a share of the $134,000 purse.
The World Championship Competition is set to feature Ryan Rose, Elisa Wallace, and Nick Dowers. They will be joined by the Wild Card Challenge Champion, bringing the total to four colt starters competing for the ultimate honor in horsemanship — the World Championship of Colt Starting title.
Together, the Wild Card Competition and the World Championship set the stage for an exciting event.
Road to the Horse 2026 takes place at the Kentucky Horse Park on March 19-22, 2026. Tickets are available here or by calling 800-514-3849. Follow Road to the Horse on Facebook or Instagram for the latest information.
