Fast Track to Five-Star: Kick On’s Breakthrough Season
How a US stallion went from five-star debutant to one of the world's highest-rated horses in just five months.
In a sport where experience often dictates success, Lillie Keenan's Kick On has defied convention. The American stallion's journey from his first four-star competition to conquering five-star Grand Prix events showcases a remarkable story of raw talent meeting perfect timing. Starting the 2024 season with a modest Elo rating of 520, Kick On would finish the year having achieved a peak rating of 742 - a testament to his extraordinary development under Keenan's careful guidance.
Lillie Keenan’s Kick On has had a big year in 2024. Only 11 months ago did the stallion compete in his first four-star international and only made his five-star 160 debut last August. Kick on took this step up to the highest level with utmost ease.
It was the middle of August when Lillie Keenan steered Kick On around his first-ever five-star Grand Prix at the Major League of Show Jumping in Rockwood. The pair jumped a superb clear round and entered a jump-off of seven. Expertly ridden by Keenan, Kick On produced a lightning-fast clear to take the victory in his five-star 160 debut.
Just two weeks later the pair travelled to Greenwich for another Major League of Showjumping. In the five-star Grand Prix, Keenan and Kick On produced yet another foot-perfect clear to a jump-off of 10. With another fast clear in the jump-off but were narrowly pipped to the victory by Abdulrahman Alrajhi and Ventago.
With this successful run of results, Kick On was establishing himself as one of the highest-rated 10-year-old horses in the world. Now at 11 years old, Kick On has only competed in 3 five-star 160 classes in his career, but with 2 of those ending in podium places, he is a definite horse to watch for the upcoming US Equestrian Open to be held at the Winter Equestrian Festival at the Wellington International in March.
About the Series
Born from a commitment by the US Equestrian Board in July 2023, the US Equestrian Open aims to grow the sport's awareness, exposure, and fan engagement. With $1 million in prize money and extensive media coverage on ESPN and the USEF Network, this series is designed to:
- Provide a structured, prestigious championship format.
- Attract a broader audience.
- Enhance competition opportunities for athletes.
Stay connected with the US Equestrian Open on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and the USEF Network for live event updates, stories, and results. Use #USEquestrianOpen to share your own experiences and connect with fellow fans.
For sponsorship and media inquiries, please contact:
Carly Weilminster: cweilminster@usef.org
Layson Griffin: lgriffin@usef.org
