Tag Archives: Olympia

Young Riders Take Up the Family Reins at Olympia

Young riders are coming through the ranks at the 2019 edition of Olympia, The London International Horse Show. The Show, which has a vivid history of hosting the biggest names in sport, will this year see a new generation with famous family names at the fore.

The Whitaker family, one of several show jumping clans who have dominated the sport in the last four decades, will be represented by Robert, son of 64-year-old Olympic silver medalist John. He won’t be the only Whitaker competing as 18-year-old Jack, son of John’s brother Michael, has once again qualified for the prestigious Voltaire Design Under 25 British Championship. The Whitaker family will be chasing the glory of the 2018 Show, when John and Michael’s nephew, 30-year-old William, captured the FEI Jumping World Cup at Olympia aboard Utamaro d’Ecaussinnes in the biggest win of his career to date.

As the younger generation come through, the current qualifiers for the 2019 Voltaire Design Under 25 British Championship show a dominance of riders with exceptionally strong show jumping pedigrees. Leading the way are the Fletcher family, with both 16-year-old Oliver and 20-year-old William qualified. The brothers, sons of Olympic silver medalist Graham and GBR Championship rider Tina, will be going head to head in the competition, which stages its finals during the Sunday evening performance.

Both Oliver and William have already achieved a lot in their short careers, with the former becoming the youngest ever winner of an Area Trial when he was just 15, before following up with an individual silver medal and the Junior European Championships the same year. William, who has represented Great Britain at Senior Nations Cup level, as well as winning Team Gold in the Young Rider European Championships in 2018, last year won the Ella Popely Mentorship Award at Olympia, in recognition of his position as one of the most promising young riders in the sport.

Also qualified for the Voltaire Design Under 25 British Championship is Joe Stockdale, son of the late Tim Stockdale who was a regular winner over the years at Olympia and a dominant force on the British national team, whom he represented at not just the World and European Championships but the Olympics. Joe will be looking to improve on his eighth place in the same class at last year’s Olympia. 2019 has been extremely fruitful for Joe, who took his first world ranking class earlier in the year and won the Under 25 class at Royal Windsor Horse Show in May, prompting him to be selected for the Young Rider Junior European Championships.

Also appearing at this year’s competition will be 17-year-old Sienna Charles, the youngest of three children following in the footsteps of their father, the Olympic team gold medalist Peter Charles MBE. Sienna will be hoping to go one better than her brother Harry, who in 2018 was the runner-up in the Voltaire Design Under 25 British Championship at Olympia and has since gone on to represent Great Britain at senior level. The Charles family dynasty looks set to continue, as sister Scarlett also makes a name for herself on the show jumping circuit.

Nephew of double Olympic gold medalist Nick Skelton CBE, Charlie Jones, secured his place at Olympia with a great performance in the Aintree International Equestrian Centre qualifier, setting up a dream trip to the prestigious Show. “Riding at Olympia is something that I’ve always dreamed of and I’m so excited to have qualified!” said Jones. “I’ve grown up watching the world’s best riders there and that I will be amongst them this year is just amazing!”

Matt Tarrant, from Voltaire Design, sponsor of the Voltaire Design Under 25 British Championship at Olympia, is delighted that such a high calibre of competitor is poised to take to the Olympia Grand, “It’s fantastic to see so many recognisable names already qualified for Olympia, with another qualifier at Addington still to come. The class is a stepping stone for the next generation of show jumping, taking place at one of the most prestigious shows in the world, so it seems fitting that names such as Whitaker, Charles and Stockdale are competing.”

The Voltaire Design Under 25 British Championships Final commences at Olympia, The London International Horse Show on Friday 20th December, with a Championship for the top ten qualifying combinations on Sunday 22nd December.

To purchase tickets for Olympia, please visit www.olympiahorseshow.com or telephone the box office on 0871 230 5580.

For more information, please contact:
Gayle Jenkins / gjenkins@revolutionworld.com / +44 (0)203 176 0355

New Format for Voltaire Design Under 25 British Championship at Olympia

British Showjumping and HPower Group are pleased to confirm an exciting new format for the 2019 Voltaire Design Under 25 British Championship at Olympia, The London International Horse Show.

Twenty-four riders will be invited to compete in the Voltaire Design Under 25 British Championship Qualifier, scheduled to run during the morning session on Friday 20 December at 10.35am. The two-round class will have a start height of 1.40m, the second of which will be a thrilling competition held against the clock.

The top 10 from this qualifier will then advance to the Voltaire Design Under 25 British Championship which will run during the evening performance on Sunday 22 December at approximately 6.00pm. Faults will not be carried through from Friday, so each rider will start on a score of zero and riders will be jumping for the lion’s share of the £13,000 prize pot on offer. With a start height of 1.45m, the class will again run over two rounds with the top five progressing through to the jump off.

The qualification criteria for the twenty-four riders who will be invited to compete in the 2019 Championship are as follows:

  1. The five team members from the Junior team at the FEI European Championships
  2. The five team members from the Young Rider team at the FEI European Championships
  3. The Under 25 riders that have been selected as part of the squad of five for any Senior Nations Cup teams in 2019
  4. The top four Under 25 combinations (disregarding those riders already qualified) from the National 1.40m Open class incorporating the Voltaire Design Under 25 British Championship Qualifier at the following Winter Classic Shows**
    – Aintree Equestrian Centre Winter Classic (10-13 October 2019)
    – Addington Equestrian Winter Classic (30 October – 2 November 2019)
  5. One wildcard to be awarded based on results from 2019 Senior, Young Rider, and Junior Nations Cups, the September 2019 FEI Jumping Under 25 Ranking List, and also prospect for teams for the year 2020

Any riders who have qualified via points 1, 2, 3, and 5 and are unable to accept their place on a Grade A or Grade B horse, alongside any combinations from point 4 who have not jumped for four faults or less in the first round, will be substituted with riders in order from the September 2019 FEI Jumping Under 25 Ranking List.

* If there are more than five riders, the riders with the best results in the Nations Cup would take priority as decided by the Performance Manager dependent on the conditions of the respective Nations Cup

** Combinations must have jumped for four faults or less in the first round

To purchase tickets for Olympia, please visit www.olympiahorseshow.com or telephone the box office on 0871 230 5580.

For more information, please contact:
Gayle Jenkins / gjenkins@revolutionworld.com / +44 (0)203 176 0355

Olympia Announces ‘Dressage Unwrapped’ Presented by Hester, Hughes, and Davison

Organisers of Olympia, The London International Horse Show are delighted to announce that a brand-new event, ‘Dressage Unwrapped’, will take place on Monday 16 December at 4pm. Under the glass roof of Olympia Grand, three of Britain’s most celebrated dressage riders, Carl Hester, Gareth Hughes, and Richard Davison, will unwrap the secrets of dressage for the Olympia audience.

In a ninety-minute event they will explore all aspects of dressage, including producing, training, and managing dressage horses, what it means to compete, and how to cope with the pressures of competition. There will be plenty of entertaining discussion between the three of them and perhaps a few disagreements along the way. Whatever happens, the crowd will certainly learn something and definitely be entertained.

Hester, Hughes, and Davison will invite some of their well-known equestrian friends as students to help them demonstrate their points. To date these include Performance Manager to Britain’s Senior Eventing Team, Richard Waygood, and one of Britain’s best loved eventers, Olympic, World, and European Medalist Pippa Funnell. Further celebrated equestrian guests are to be announced in the near future.

Ticket holders for the Monday evening performance, which includes the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Grand Prix, will have exclusive access to the ‘Dressage Unwrapped’ session.

Olympia Show Director, Simon-Brooks Ward, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be hosting our first ever ‘Dressage Unwrapped’ at this year’s Show and are proud to be welcoming Carl, Gareth, Richard, Pippa, and Richard to the arena. I’m looking forward to hearing about the other mystery guests.

“I know this is going to be a very entertaining event, but I hope it will also be educational and provide some great insights into dressage. It will really add to Monday’s Olympia performance.”

‘Dressage Unwrapped’ will take place on Monday 16 December, at 4pm, as a part of Monday’s already publicised mix of displays from The Shetland Pony Grand National, The Musical Ride of the Household Cavalry, Jean François Pignon and his new ‘Black and White’ display, and the FEI World Cup™ Dressage Grand Prix supported by Horse & Hound.

To purchase tickets for Olympia, please visit www.olympiahorseshow.com or telephone the box office on 0871 230 5580.

For more information, please contact:
Gayle Jenkins / gjenkins@revolutionworld.com / +44 (0)203 176 0355

This Esme and Teddy the Shetland to Take Centre Stage at Olympia Live Zone

Olympia, The London International Horse Show is thrilled to announce the 2019 line-up for the hugely popular ‘Live Zone.’ Providing a unique opportunity for spectators to meet and interact with some of their favourite equestrian stars, this year’s Live Zone features online influencers as well as talks, Q&A sessions, and rider interviews.

Alongside the exclusive opportunity to meet elite equestrian athletes, the Live Zone will include guest appearances from social media sensations, including Esme Higgs, one of the world’s most popular equestrian influencers. Attending from Friday 20 to Sunday 22 December, Higgs is famous for her YouTube videos of her life with her ponies and donkeys and attracts 3.5 million viewers to her YouTube channel ‘This Esme’ each month.

Teddy the Shetland will be at Olympia on Thursday 19 December and Friday 20 December for a ‘meet and greet’ and photo opportunities. The miniature Shetland who has over 120,000 followers has become a social media superstar and has even been featured in a Dior photoshoot.

Show jumper Kate Lewis, who documents her equestrian journey under the name ‘Blob the Cob’, will be making her Olympia Live Zone debut on Thursday, 19 December. Known for her incredible bareback jumping videos, the 20-year-old from North Yorkshire has over 136,000 Instagram followers and YouTube subscribers.

This year the Live Zone will also see appearances from young eventing rider ‘Pony Nuts,’ Vic Brant, who writes the hugely popular online blog ‘Diary of a Wimpy Eventer’ and vloggers Tina Wallace and Emily Dunstan who make videos as ‘Life on the Left Rein’ and ‘EMD Eventing’. By popular demand, pony producer Megan Elphick of Elphick Event Ponies will be making her Live Zone debut with a Q&A session, answering questions about training tactics and the best confidence-building exercises for ponies.

Olympia’s Official Charity, The Tim Stockdale Foundation, will also be supporting the Urban Equestrian Academy on the Live Zone for Part II of the Olympia Riding Academy – the initiative started earlier this year with an educational trip to the Stockdale’s yard.

The complete 2019 timetable will be announced later this month and will also include top international competitors from show jumping, dressage, and driving as well as specialist equestrian experts, and other stars of the Show.

Olympia Show Director, Simon Brooks-Ward, said: “Olympia recognises the importance of digital bloggers and YouTube stars and we want to build unforgettable experiences for both our visitors and for those people who have such an influence on the equestrian community. The Live Zone at Olympia has been an incredibly successful initiative that brings fans and riders together. This year, it returns better than ever with an extensive list of guests.”

YouTuber ‘This Esme’ is one of the world’s largest equestrian social media stars. “Olympia is definitely one of my favorite times of year. I have been every year since I was 10 years old and it wouldn’t feel like Christmas without it! This year I’m really excited to be back in the Live Zone meeting my viewers and soaking up the special Olympia atmosphere.”

Taking place at Olympia Grand this December, Olympia, The London International Horse Show attracts the world’s best riders and carriage drivers. The West Kensington venue will host seven days of top-class equestrian competition between 16-22 December, thrilling visitors from around the country. Alongside three FEI World Cup legs in Dressage, Show Jumping, and Carriage Driving, 90,000 spectators will also enjoy international performances from The Household Calvary Musical Ride and Jean-Francois Pignon’s new ‘Black and White’ display.

To purchase tickets for Olympia, please visit www.olympiahorseshow.com or telephone the box office on 0871 230 5580.

For more information, please contact:
Gayle Jenkins / gjenkins@revolutionworld.com / +44 (0)203 176 0355

Sir Anthony McCoy and Bridget Andrews to Captain the Teams at Olympia’s Star Studded ‘Race Night’

Sir Anthony ‘AP’ McCoy OBE and Bridget Andrews have been confirmed as the team captains for the 2019 edition of the Markel Jockeys Jumping, in aid of the Injured Jockeys Fund, at Olympia, The London International Horse Show. Returning for another electrifying year, the legendary ‘Race Night’ will thrill the audience of Olympia Grand with two star-studded teams, including the world’s top jockeys. Taking place on Friday 20 December 2019, spectators of the Show can expect nail-biting action as the teams battle it out for the Champions’ Crown.

Now in its fifth year, the Markel Jockeys Jumping, in aid of the Injured Jockeys Fund, will see some of Britain’s world-class jockeys switch disciplines to compete in a relay show jumping competition, swapping the racetrack for the Olympia arena in front of a 7000 strong crowd. This year’s format will see an all girls’ team, captained by Bridget Andrews and including top names Bryony Frost and Hayley Turner, go head-to-head with an all boys’ team captained by 20-time champion jockey, Sir Anthony McCoy.

Bridget Andrews, who recorded her first Cheltenham Festival winner in 2018, is one of the best female jump jockeys in the UK. Joining her will be Bryony Frost, who earlier this year became the first woman to win a Grade One race over fences at the Cheltenham Festival. Hayley Turner OBE will also join the all girls’ team. Hayley is a multiple Group One-winning jockey with over 800 career wins, making her the most successful female flat jockey of all time in Britain. This year she became the first woman for 32 years to win a race at Royal Ascot.

Joining Sir Anthony McCoy will be former flat champion jockeys, Ryan Moore and Jim Crowley. Harry Skelton will also be returning in hope of defending his title in rather less dramatic circumstances, following a bridle malfunction in the 2018 event. The final line-up of remaining members will be announced at a later date.

Captain of the boys’ team, AP McCoy, said: “The atmosphere at ‘Race Night’ is electric and I love being a part of the Markel Jockeys Jumping. I’m looking forward to once again showing the girls how it’s done! In addition to all the fun, it shines a light on all the great work the Injured Jockeys Fund do in both the racing world and across the wider equestrian community.”

Juliet Redfern, Head of Equine Insurance at Markel, said: “Markel is delighted to be continuing its support of this fabulous event, which just seems to get more popular every year. The Injured Jockeys Fund is a wonderful charity, that looks after its own so well, and we couldn’t be happier to be returning to Olympia for a fifth year!”

Taking place in the iconic Olympia Grand this Christmas (16-22 December), Olympia, The London International Horse Show is a highly anticipated equestrian event which attracts the best riders and drivers from around the world. The week of equestrian action will see many of the world’s best athletes travel to the iconic Olympia venue, as the Show hosts three FEI World Cup™ competitions in Dressage, Carriage Driving, and Show Jumping.

Spectators can also look forward to entertainment from The Shetland Pony Grand National, Kennel Club Dog Agility, and the festive extraordinaire: the Christmas Finale. The 2019 edition of the event will open its doors to two international displays including the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, performing its Musical Ride at this year’s Show. Made up of 28 horses and 36 mounted ceremonial service members – who also serve as fighting soldiers – the Musical Ride is unique across the globe, as it demonstrates exceptional horsemanship and the very best of British military tradition. Horse Whisperer, Jean-François Pignon, will be debuting his ‘Black and White’ display for the first time in front of a UK audience. Adding to an already impressive line-up of displays, Pignon’s performance, which comprises six white and two black mares, is bound to be a crowd pleaser as he wows the crowds with his unique skills.

To purchase tickets for Olympia, please visit www.olympiahorseshow.com or telephone the box office on 0871 230 5580.

For more information, please contact:
Gayle Jenkins / gjenkins@revolutionworld.com / +44 (0)203 176 0355

Olympia and Tim Stockdale Foundation Debut Olympia Riding Academy to Increase Accessibility

Olympia, The London International Horse Show, together with its 2019 Official Charity, The Tim Stockdale Foundation, debuted the ‘Olympia Riding Academy’ on 10 September, aiming to introduce economically disadvantaged children to the range of career prospects within the equestrian industry. Working closely with The Urban Equestrian Academy, the initiative provides an opportunity for children to meet professionals who work in the sector and receive advice and inspiration on their future careers.

Eight children from The Urban Equestrian Academy aged from 8-19 attended the day, the highlight being a riding lesson from rising show jumping star Joseph Stockdale, son of Olympic rider Tim Stockdale who passed away last year. Students were given the opportunity to spend time with a nutritionist from feed company Spillers and farrier Nigel Turner, as well as the staff who run the Stockdale’s yard of 23 international horses. During the day, attendees were able to ask questions about career paths and gain a further understanding of what each job entails. Also present were employees of HPower Group, the event management company that manages Olympia, The London International Horse Show, and rEvolution, an international sports PR and Marketing agency.

Olympia, The London International Horse Show, together with 2019 Official Charity, The Tim Stockdale Foundation, hopes the ‘Olympia Riding Academy’ will create a platform which will provide opportunities to all children and young people interested in equestrianism. In December, the ‘Olympia Riding Academy’ attendees’ pupils will attend the Show, where representatives will have the opportunity to help with the Show’s Live Zone and learn more about how the event is run.

Olympia Show Director, Simon Brooks-Ward, said: “Our goal is to widen equestrian accessibility and participation, bringing it to individuals and communities who have least access to it. By creating a platform where these children can learn about careers within the industry, we hope to create opportunities and open doors that haven’t been available in the past.

“Working alongside The Tim Stockdale Foundation and The Urban Equestrian Academy – who both share the same vision of making equestrian accessible to everyone – has been incredibly inspiring.”

The Tim Stockdale Foundation, which was founded by his family after his death from cancer last year, works to continue the legacy of the show jumping star’s life and career. Olympia was a highlight of the calendar for Tim and the Show is proud to have the Foundation as their official charity for 2019.

Tim’s wife, Laura, said: “We are honored to work with Olympia and The Urban Equestrian Academy to host such a special day for aspiring young riders struggling with accessibility. Tim felt very strongly about making equestrianism, alongside other sports, available to everyone. The work of the Foundation will continue to provide opportunities to those in real need of them.”

The Urban Equestrian Academy’s mandate focuses on widening participation of those with the least experience in the equestrian world and the individuals and communities with the least access to it. Their programs and services are helping to change social and racial diversity in equestrian sports by creating a representative, accessible, and inclusive equestrian environment for all, regardless of race, colour, or background.

According to Azeezah Zampaladus, a UEA student, “I had such a great day at the Olympia Riding Academy. It was really inspiring watching Joe ride, and I really enjoyed meeting the farrier and nutritionists – they were so interesting. I can’t wait to go to Olympia this Christmas!”

To purchase tickets for Olympia, please visit www.olympiahorseshow.com or telephone the box office on 0871 230 5580.

For more information, please contact:
Gayle Jenkins / gjenkins@revolutionworld.com / +44 (0)203 176 0355

UK Debut for Jean-François Pignon’s New ‘Black and White’ Display at This Year’s Olympia

Organisers of Olympia, The London International Horse Show are delighted to announce Jean-François Pignon will perform his new ‘Black and White’ display for the first time in the UK at this year’s event. Adding to an already impressive line-up of displays, Pignon’s performance, which comprises eight white and six black mares, is bound to be a crowd pleaser, as he wows the crowds with his unique skills.

The renowned Frenchman, who has been performing internationally for over 30 years, has been training horses since he was 11 years old with his goal being to communicate with his horses on another level, by working with them in a natural way. He now educates people all over the world by demonstrating his methods.

Show Director, Simon Brooks-Ward, said: “We feel incredibly privileged that Jean-François Pignon has chosen Olympia, The London International to perform his ‘Black and White’ display in the UK for the first time. He is an extraordinarily talented horseman, and I know fans will be travelling from around the country to see this display.

“The bond between Pignon and his horses is exceptional, and his performances always delight our audiences. It’s incredible to see the trust these horses have in Jean-François and how relaxed they are in front of such a large crowd.”

Jean-François Pignon said: “The idea for the display originally came from my vet, who asked me to work with these young mares who had never been handled by humans before. One year down the line and the idea is in full development and it is such a pleasure to be able to share this magic with an audience.

“The atmosphere at Olympia is incredibly special and the London audience is always so engaging. I am looking forward to giving a magical performance to all those traveling to London to see ‘Black and White’ for the first time.”

Also gracing the Olympia Grand will be the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, performing its Musical Ride at this year’s Show. Made up of 28 horses and 36 mounted ceremonial service members – who also serve as fighting soldiers – the Musical Ride is unique across the globe, as it demonstrates exceptional horsemanship and the very best of British military tradition. Having not appeared at the West Kensington venue for many years, the Musical Ride of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment is set to be one of the most exciting displays of the week.

Living up to its reputation as one of Europe’s leading indoor equestrian events, Olympia, The London International Horse Show will once again host the world’s top competitors in three FEI World Cup™ disciplines: Carriage Driving, Dressage, and Show Jumping. The expected 90,000 visitors will experience top quality competition and displays this Christmas, such as the much-loved Christmas Finale, The Shetland Pony Grand National, and the Turkish Airlines Olympia Grand Prix.

To purchase tickets for Olympia, please visit www.olympiahorseshow.com or telephone the box office on 0871 230 5580.

For more information, please contact:
Gayle Jenkins / gjenkins@revolutionworld.com / +44 (0)203 176 0355

Olympia, The London International Horse Show Introduces New Sustainability Initiatives for 2019

In its ongoing commitment to the environment, Olympia, The London International Horse Show, has once again put sustainability as a top priority for 2019. Taking place between 16-22 December, the week-long Show has reduced its use of single-use plastic again ahead of this year’s Christmas extravaganza.

Located in the heart of West London, the prestigious Olympia London has always been at the forefront of sustainability and waste management, pioneering several initiatives within the UK event industry. The London International Horse Show has worked, and continues to work, closely with Olympia London to create a more sustainable and environmentally aware event.

In their collaborative endeavour to fight the war on plastic, Olympia London and the Show have put several initiatives in place. In 2018, the Show eliminated 83% of its single-use plastic and packaging. Olympia London and the venue’s in-house caterers, Creative Events and Levy Restaurants have been working towards eliminating single-use plastic. Since 2018, plastic straws and cutlery have been replaced with recyclable alternatives such as paper straws and wooden and bamboo cutlery. Cardboard plates and vegware drinking glasses are now used and PET bottles of soft drinks have been replaced with aluminium cans.

All catering outlets offer discounted hot drinks to those who bring their own coffee cups, and Olympia London has gone into partnership with Simply Cups – the service was launched at Olympia, The London International Horse Show in 2018. Simply Cups provide separate bins for hot drinks cups, which are fully recycled into products, such as reusable cups. Guests will be able to find Simply Cups bins in the main catering areas of the Show.

In a drive to reduce energy consumption, all of the venue’s electricity is procured from renewable sources and all of the venue lighting in the arena and Shopping Village has been replaced with LED fittings – additionally, some of the rig’s incandescent bulbs will be replaced for the 2019 Show with environmentally-friendly LED alternatives.

Every year, more than 75 tonnes of muck, hay, and straw – the equivalent weight of 200 horses – is delivered to a local farm where it is composted and used as fertiliser for crops, and this is an initiative the Show will continue in 2019.

Water stations will be available near the catering outlets on the North and South sides of the Main Arena, as well as by the Pillar Hall at the North end, and the Winter Market and APEX room on the Shopping Village Gallery Level – new stations for this year will be located by the Shop and Drop on the South Side of the Main Arena and Eighteen 86 restaurant on the North Side of the Arena.

Show Director, Simon Brooks-Ward, said: “Reducing the Show’s carbon footprint has been a significant goal for us in recent years and none more so than in 2019. As an International Show, we have a responsibility to set an example, which we are doing by continue to put new sustainability initiatives in place, and we look forward to seeing what we can achieve for many years to come.

“We encourage ticket-holders travelling from around the UK to Olympia to think about their carbon footprint by considering greener ways of travelling, specifically making the most of the excellent public transport links to the venue. We also ask guests to bring their own water bottles rather than buying plastics bottles at the Show.”

Siân Richards, Business Services & Sustainability Manager of Olympia London, said: “We are very proud of our waste management programme, which has ensured that 100% of the waste output has been diverted from landfill for well over a decade, with 98% recycled and the remaining 2% recovered as waste for energy.

“Most of the waste produced at Olympia London is sent to a local waste recycling plant, where it’s sorted and sent back into the manufacturing chain to be reused. The main exception to this is food waste, which is sent to an anaerobic digestion plant, where it’s converted into bio-fuel and fertiliser.

“Olympia London works closely with local food banks and charities around London to ensure that any useable food left over from the event is used to help those less fortunate.”

Olympia, The London International Horse Show will return once again for seven days of spectacular high-class competition. Attracting crowds and riders from around the world, the 2019 edition of the Christmas Show is sure to impress. Taking place at the iconic Olympia Grand, the expected 90,000 spectators will witness FEI World Cup™ action, which will begin on Monday 16 December, and will showcase the very best of Show Jumping, Dressage, and Carriage Driving. Very much living up to its name, the International Show will also host a range of exciting performances and displays throughout the week, concluding with the greatly anticipated Olympia Grand Prix on Sunday 22 December.

To purchase tickets for Olympia, please visit www.olympiahorseshow.com or telephone the box office on 0871 230 5580.

For more information, please contact:
Gayle Jenkins / gjenkins@revolutionworld.com / +44 (0)203 176 0355

Musical Ride of the Household Cavalry to Perform at Olympia, The London International Horse Show

Olympia, The London International Horse Show has announced that the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment will perform its Musical Ride at the UK’s highly anticipated Christmas Show from 16-22 December 2019.

Made up of 28 horses and 36 personnel, the Household Cavalry has been confirmed to headline this year’s impressive line-up of displays and performances. As the only mounted ceremonial service men and women who also serve as fighting soldiers, The Musical Ride of The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment is unique across the globe as it demonstrates exceptional horsemanship and the very best of British tradition. The drills, which are practiced during battle, will be carried out to music and performed in a routine that is strongly focused on precise timing and impeccable coordination.

Having not performed at the West Kensington venue for four years, The Musical Ride of The Household Cavalry is set to be one of the most exciting displays of the week and will attract audiences from across the country. London’s passionate equestrian fans will get to experience the mesmerising display, which has been perfected and performed in front of audiences since 1882.

Musical Ride Officer, Captain Felix Pagden-Ratcliffe, said: “The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment is honoured to be returning to Olympia, The London International Horse Show, and to be able to perform in front of such a passionate crowd. It is a great opportunity to celebrate the role that the Mounted Regiment holds in modern day. As always, we have high standards to live up to and this year we hope to exceed all expectations.”

Show Director, Simon Brooks-Ward, said: “Olympia, The London International Horse Show is the ultimate celebration of equestrianism and we work extremely hard to bring a variety of displays to the event each year. The Household Cavalry will bring huge entertainment to the London audience. It is very exciting to have such an impressive display headline the week’s performances.”

Olympia, The London International Horse Show will return to the capital for another year of world-class equestrian competition. The 2019 edition of the Show will play host to the world’s best riders and drivers from Monday 16 December – Sunday 22 December. The week’s highlights will include three FEI World Cup™ competitions in Show Jumping, Dressage, and Carriage Driving. Audience members will also be treated to a range of international displays and performances in addition to returning favourites such as the Cayenne Puissance and The Olympia Grand Prix, the culminating competition which will take place on Sunday 22 December, signing off 2019 in style.

To purchase tickets for Olympia, please visit www.olympiahorseshow.com or telephone the box office on 0871 230 5580.

For more information, please contact:
Gayle Jenkins / gjenkins@revolutionworld.com / +44 (0)203 176 0355

It’s Another Italian Job in the Turkish Airlines Olympia Grand Prix

The pinnacle of the last day of Olympia, The Turkish Airlines Olympia Grand Prix, was won by Alberto Zorzi, defending his 2017 title to become a back-to-back winner of the prestigious class. Earlier in the day the Show Jumping competition saw Irishman Shane Breen take the title in The Christmas Masters. The final show jumping class of the Show, The Mistletoe Mini Stakes, was won by the speedy duo of Connie Mensley and Madonna.

The afternoon performance of the Osborne Refrigerators Shetland Pony Grand National was won by Lucy Aspell, followed by a win for Alice Crowley in the final race of the week. The Bob Champion Cancer Trust, the Official Charity of the Shetland Pony Grand National, was presented with a cheque of £45,059, the total amount raised for the beneficiary this year.

The Kennel Club Small Dog Agility Final was won by Dave Munnings and his cross-breed, Boost Bite.

Alberto Zorzi Defends His Title

Alberto Zorzi became the fifth rider in history to win The Turkish Airlines Olympia Grand Prix back-to-back when he produced an incredible burst of speed to outdo his four rivals in the jump-off and bring a brilliant five days of jumping to an enthralling close.

Last year, Zorzi, a member of the Italian army, also won on a mare (Contanga); this time it was the black 10-year-old Ulane de Coquerie. “It’s unbelievable! I am so lucky,” said Zorzi. “I know my horse is very fast, so I trust her and go with her. She’s one of the best I have ridden. I love this Show!”

In completing the double, Zorzi joins an elite band of riders: David Broome (with Philco and Sportsman in 1977-78), Nick Skelton (St James, 1982-83), Malcolm Pyrah (Towerlands Anglezarke, 1985-86), Franke Sloothaak (Walzerkoenig, 1988-89), and Ben Maher (Tripple X and Diva ll, 2013-14).

Only four went through to the jump-off, and Portugal’s Rodrigo Giesteira Almeida riding GC Chopin’s Bushi made a feisty start with a clear in 28.69 seconds. However, he was overhauled by the stylish Dutchman Maikel van der Vleuten on Idi Utopia, who came home in 28.64.

Scott Brash was the sole British representative, riding a masterful clear round on the youngster Hello Jefferson, but a tight turn proved too ambitious for the nine-year-old and he refused.

Both Zorzi and van der Vleuten felt the Grand Prix track was harder than that for the previous day’s FEI World Cup™. “Alberto’s horse had a shorter stride than mine and could move up more quickly to the fences,” explained van der Vleuten, who ended up as Leading Rider of the Show. “But finishing second, and as Leading Rider of the show, is a great way for me to finish the year.”

Ireland’s Darragh Kenny and Olympia newcomer Doron Kuipers from the Netherlands were second and third in the final rider rankings with William Funnell best Briton in fourth.

Shane Breen Is the Master

Until this year, Shane Breen had never done a full week at Olympia. Now, he’s won his first rankings class and been crowned the victor in The Christmas Masters, a winner-takes-all knockout contest for the leading seven riders in the show.

The British trio of William Whitaker, John Whitaker, and William Funnell exited by the second round, as did Ireland’s Darragh Kenny. Then Dutchman Doron Kuipers, making his first visit to Olympia, hit a fence in the third and it was all down to Breen, riding Clyde VA, and Maikel van der Vleuten from the Netherlands, who took it to a jump-off against the clock in the fifth round for the jackpot of €9,500.

“I knew Maikel would be quicker [on Dana Blue], which is a more experienced horse than mine, so I had to hope he would have a fence down – and he obliged!”

Breen, a keen hunting man, said of his winning mount, Clyde VA: “I think a lot of this horse. He’s a little bit lazy to ride, but he’s going to be a good addition to Team Ireland.”

Earlier in the day, there was a timely birthday present for the popular Italian rider, Luca Maria Moneta, when a late dash on the 17-year-old Neptune Brecourt clinched the Turkish Airlines Speed Stakes from Robert Whitaker on Major Delacour.

Moneta, who is 51 and a strong advocate of working in partnership with the horse – many spectators will remember the way he fed his horse a carrot in the Puissance in 2013 (he still carries them in his pocket) – said: “Both my best horses are 17 years old and they spend a lot of time being horses rather than show jumpers – they go in the field every day at home.

“This horse enjoys competing so much that he would hate it if you left him behind – he finds it fun and easy. Sometimes when you get to the last fence in a speed class the horse will be hanging on the bit, but Neptune was very focussed today and our partnership work was rewarded.”

Goodbye Ursula

Scott Brash may be known by some as the cool ice man of Show Jumping, but it was an emotional evening at Olympia as he retired his brilliant mare Ursula Xll.

Ursula, owned by Lady Harris and Lady Kirkham, is 17 and has twice been the top ranked horse in FEI competition and a flagship for British breeding; she won the 2016 CP International at the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’, Canada and was runner-up in the FEI Longines World Cup™ leg at Olympia in 2017.

“We have a great partnership,” said Brash. “She gives you some feeling in a big class and I know what she’s going to do. Eventually she wants to have a foal, but she’ll come home with me and I will keep riding for a bit because she’s very fit and needs to be worked.”

Brash’s career has already included an Olympic gold medal, being world number one and winning the million-dollar Rolex Grand Slam, but the 33-year-old Scot admits: “I live for those feelings. The Grand Slam was one of the best things in my life, as was winning an Olympic gold medal in my home country, but it only makes me hungrier. I will want to win the World Cup final and an individual gold medal – I’m very motivated.

“I’m my fiercest critic. I have been cross with myself when I’ve won, but I’ve also come out of the arena with two down and been quite happy with that. I’m most comfortable when I’m in the ring. It’s what I love doing.”

Return of the Natives

A striking Connemara stallion described “as an absolute treasure at home” was crowned Supreme Champion in the BSPS Ridden Mountain and Moorland Championship sponsored by LeMieux.

Sandra Burton and Joe Burke’s 10-year-old Banks Timber, third last year, was bred in Denmark by Peter Bank Mikkelson, bought as a yearling from sales in Galway, Ireland, by Mr Burke, who had flown over for the day at Olympia, and arrived as an unbroken six-year-old at Mrs Burton’s Connemara pony stud in Lancashire. Reserve Champion was Cadlanvalley Buzby, a Welsh Section B stallion by Russetwood Elation out of Stockham Domino, owned and bred by Hayley Grota and ridden by 13-year-old Liberty Grota in her first season with the pony.

For more information, please contact:
Gayle Jenkins / gjenkins@revolutionworld.com / +44 (0)203 176 0355