Stats: age 24, Adamstown, Md.

Sir Donovan: ch. g., 17 hands, 9 years, Irish-bred Irish Sport Horse (VDL Arkansas—Flown, Imperius), owned by rider.

This pair completed the Fair Hill CCI*** (Md.) in 2009. Last year, they were 13th at the Bromont CCI*** (Que.) and 13th at the Fair Hill CCI***. This spring, they were seventh in an advanced division at Rocking Horse Winter II (Fla.) and 15th in the Red Hills CIC*** (Fla.).

Jimmy’s Prediction: Katie Ruppel and Sir Donovan are slowly working their way up the competitive ladder. Their technical skills are still a work in progress, but they should go well here. This will be an educational weekend for them, which will stand them in good stead for the future.

2011 Rolex Kentucky Preview Roster