Tag Archives: Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing

Oliver Townend Moves into Contention for Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing

30 April 2018, Lexington, USA – Great Britain’s Oliver Townend produced a precision round of show jumping in the final phase of the 2018 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event to secure his first Kentucky win and set him just one event away from winning the coveted Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing prize.

Townend took first place riding Cooley Master Class, with Michael Jung (GER) riding FischerRocana FST in second, and USA’s Marilyn Little on RF Scandalous in third place.

From the 46 horse and rider combinations who started the competition on day one, 32 horses made it through to start on the final day of competition, with an international field of world-class riders from the USA, Canada, Great Britain, Ireland, Australia, Poland and Germany.

With just one fence separating the top four placed competitors in the show jumping, the enthusiastic patriotic spectators in the Rolex Stadium enjoyed a thrilling sporting display.

Oliver Townend was up against many of eventing’s finest riders, including world number one and reigning champion Michael Jung, who had returned to this year’s Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event in a bid to try to set a new record by winning the event for a historic fourth consecutive year, aboard his same horse, FischerRocana FST.

Speaking after his victory and looking ahead to the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing challenge, Townend said: “Today was incredible. I will just take it one event at a time, but I have two great horses next week at Badminton and it is all to play for now.”

ROLEX LONG-TERM PARTNERSHIP

Rolex and the Kentucky Three-Day Event have a long and distinguished history, with Rolex as Title Sponsor for over three decades from 1981 to 2017 and proud to be continuing its long-term partnership as Official Timepiece. In 1998 Rolex Kentucky became the third annual CCI4* event in the world and remains the only four-star competition on the American continent. Rolex’s established support has seen the event develop into one of the most prestigious in the world, with top riders from around the globe now vying to compete there.

THE ROLEX GRAND SLAM OF EVENTING CHALLENGE

Since 2001, Rolex has actively supported excellence in the discipline of eventing through the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing – an award presented to any rider who consecutively wins at the three annual events of the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event (USA), the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials (UK) and the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials (UK). To this day, the Grand Slam has only been won twice, in 2003 and more recently, in 2016.

All eyes will now be upon Townend to see if he can continue his current world-class form as the live contender for the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing, with two wins now complete and the final challenge of winning the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials, which starts in just days, to be only the third rider in history to win the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing prize.

Revolution Sports + Entertainment
Merrick Haydon
merrick@revolutionsports.co.uk
+44 (0)7748 186 833

Michael Jung Crowned New Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing Champion after Winning Badminton

Photo courtesy of Rolex.

8 May 2016, Badminton, UK – It was a day of records at the 2016 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials as world number one Michael Jung was crowned the new Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing Champion having kept his lead from the first day of the competition despite huge pressure from the world’s leading riders.

Jung is the first German rider to ever win the Badminton Horse Trials in its 57th running and he created further new records by being the rider to finish on the new lowest ever score of 34.4, and the first time in 10 years to lead the dressage and then go on and win the Badminton title.

Having won both the 2015 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials and the 2016 Rolex Kentucky, Jung is now the new Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing Champion, receiving a Rolex watch, the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing trophy and the USD$350,000 Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing prize.

Riding La Biosthetique Sam FBW, Jung was last to go into the packed arena in front of HRH Duchess of Cornwall and went into the final show jumping phase at Badminton with two rails in-hand overnight. Showing no signs of pressure, Jung rode another immaculate clear round without touching a single rail.

The 15,000 spectators held their breath as Jung expertly guided ‘Sam’ around the 13-fence course, with Jung punching the air to the delight of the supporters, fans and watching global media. In second place was his fellow compatriot Andreas Ostholt riding So Is Et, who rode a superb clear to hold his position. In third place was Great Britain’s Gemma Tattersall riding Artic Soul who finished in her highest ever Badminton place.

In the previous cross-country action, 48 of the 75 starters finished, with 32 clear rounds, 11 of them inside the optimum time.  The experienced Kristina Cook will have impressed the GB selectors having risen 35 places from their starting dressage in 42nd to finish 7th on Star Witness.

NEW ROLEX GRAND SLAM OF EVENTING CHAMPION

Speaking after the final show jumping phase, a triumphant Jung said, “I think this [the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing] is really special as you know that just only one person has won it before; that says that it is really difficult to win all three events in a row. I am very, very happy and so proud of my horse.”

Andreas Ostholt said, “My aim was always to be here on the podium, so I feel really, really happy. For me it is like a win. To finish in second place is more than I could ever wish.”

Competing for the third time at Badminton with her best ever finish on her horse Artic Soul, Gemma Tattersall said, “To come back with this horse who I have had such a journey with and coming third at Badminton is a total dream come true! The crowd was amazing; I managed to keep his concentration and he jumped the best round of his life.”

THE ROLEX GRAND SLAM OF EVENTING HISTORY

In 2001 Rolex was inspired to link the three foremost Eventing competitions in the world into a Grand Slam. Badminton – the British horse trials on which the modern sport of eventing was founded, Kentucky – the premier US event, and Burghley – the East of England’s showpiece event, formed the competition.

Every year these three events attract world class competition and crowds of enthusiastic supporters eager to bear witness to equestrian greatness. It became immediately apparent that, completing the challenge and winning the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing, would require a series of outstanding performances from a remarkable athlete.

Since its inception in 2001, only one rider has risen to the challenge: Britain’s much loved and highly decorated team member, Pippa Funnell. In April 2003 she rode Primmore’s Pride to victory at Rolex Kentucky, beginning her Rolex Grand Slam campaign. A week later, this time riding double European champion Supreme Rock, Funnell was crowned Badminton winner. A few months later, Funnell reigned supreme at Burghley, riding Primmore’s Pride again, outperforming fellow Rolex Testimonee Zara Phillips, who finished in second place. Pippa Funnell immediately joined the ranks of sporting greats and became a Rolex Testimonee.

Since then, two of the three legs of the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing have been won by four different riders: Australia’s Andrew Hoy, Britain’s William Fox-Pitt and Oliver Townend, and New Zealand’s Andrew Nicholson. None of these top-class riders have yet succeeded in triumphing over the series and winning the final element of the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing.

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Jung Is One Step Away from Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing Prize after Cross-Country at Badminton

Photo courtesy of Rolex.

7 May 2016, Badminton, UK – Michael Jung (GER) gave a cross-country masterclass performance to maintain his overnight lead at the 2016 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials, to put him just one step away from the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing prize.

Having won both the 2015 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials and the 2016 Rolex Kentucky, Jung is now just 13 show jumping fences away from the coveted USD$350,000 Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing prize. Michael Jung heads into Sunday’s final show jumping phase at Badminton with two rails in hand and is focused on one thing only: winning the world’s greatest prize in Eventing – the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing.

Riding La Biosthetique Sam FBW, Jung was 20th to go cross-country and made the four-star course look easy as he guided Sam over the 32-fence course with a clear round and no time penalties, finishing seven seconds within the time set.

In second place is his fellow compatriot Andreas Ostholt riding So Is Et, who went clear cross-country picking up 5.2 time penalties. In third place is Great Britain’s Gemma Tattersall riding Artic Soul.

TOP 5 RESULTS AFTER CROSS-COUNTRY

1. Michael Jung (GER), La Biosthetique-Sam FBW, 34.4
2. Andreas Ostholt (GER), So Is Et, 43.4
3. Gemma Tattersall (GBR), Artic Soul, 44.6
4. Mark Todd (NZL), Leonidas II, 44.8
5. Jonathan Paget (NZL), Clifton Lush, 45.2

ROLEX GRAND SLAM OF EVENTING CHALLENGE

Speaking after the cross-country, a jubilant Jung said, “I am very, very proud of my horse. He concentrates, he is so powerful, always galloping forward – it’s a really, really great feeling. We have a great partnership; he trusts me, and I trust him. Everything feels so easy with him – it’s a tough course but with this energy, there was not one time with him that I felt I was galloping fast – everything is so easy with him.”

Andreas Ostholt said, “I really enjoyed my ride; I was really pleased. For sure I had a hairy moment at the Vicarage Vee – I was sitting on top thinking ‘not today, not today, not today’; I’m getting old, but luckily not too old and managed to stay on my horse! I tried not to be too fast and not too quick. In the end I am one of the happiest men of the day.”

Competing for the third time at Badminton on her horse Artic Soul, in her fifth start, Gemma Tattersall said, “Today was awesome – amazing! I have been wanting to be here at Badminton [in the top 3] all my life. Artic Soul is a really good show jumper – he does get a little nervous with the crowds so I’ve just got to keep him calm and try my best to jump a clear round, but hey – he’s been incredible in the first two phases and I am incredibly proud of him.”

HISTORY OF THE ROLEX GRAND SLAM

In 2001 Rolex was inspired to link the three foremost eventing competitions in the world into a Grand Slam. Badminton – the British horse trials on which the modern sport of eventing was founded, Kentucky – the premier US event, and Burghley – the East of England’s showpiece event, formed the competition.

Every year these three events attract world class competition and crowds of enthusiastic supporters eager to bear witness to equestrian greatness. It became immediately apparent that, completing the challenge and winning the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing, would require a series of outstanding performances from a remarkable athlete.

Since its inception in 2001, only one rider has risen to the challenge: Britain’s much loved and highly decorated team member, Pippa Funnell. In April 2003 she rode Primmore’s Pride to victory at Rolex Kentucky, beginning her Rolex Grand Slam campaign. A week later, this time riding double European champion Supreme Rock, Funnell was crowned Badminton winner. A few months later, Funnell reigned supreme at Burghley, riding Primmore’s Pride again, outperforming fellow Rolex Testimonee Zara Phillips, who finished in second place. Pippa Funnell immediately joined the ranks of sporting greats and became a Rolex Testimonee.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Rolex SA
Virginie Chevailler
virginie.chevailler@rolex.com
+41 (0)22 302 2761

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Jung Closes In on Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing Prize after Leading Dressage at Badminton

Photo courtesy of Rolex.

6 May 2016, Badminton, UK – Michael Jung (GER) continued his winning form from the Rolex Kentucky event last weekend to lead the 2016 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials after the Dressage phase, to set him on course for the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing prize.

With a stunning dressage score of 34.4, Jung, riding his double gold medal winning horse La Biostheetique-Sam FBW, leads the 77 strong field of competitors with the UK’s Emily King in second place riding Brookleigh and fellow compatriot, Andreas Ostholt, in third place riding So Is Et.

Only these three riders posted dressage scores under 40 and now head into Saturday’s challenging cross-country course with one of the closest set of scores in the competition’s history.

TOP 5 RESULTS AFTER DRESSAGE

1. Michael Jung (GER), La Biosthetique-Sam FBW, 34.4
2. Emily King (UK), Brookleigh, 36.8
3. Andreas Ostholt (GER), So Is Et, 38.2
4. Francis Whittington (UK), Hasty IMP, 40.0
5. Christopher Burton (AUS), Nobilis 18, 40.3

ROLEX GRAND SLAM OF EVENTING CHALLENGE

Speaking at the post-dressage press conference, a delighted Jung said, “It is always in my mind [Rolex Grand Slam] and the pressure is on, but this is normal like in every competition – when I go to any big competition like a 4* I try to win for sure. I am always looking step by step – the dressage is over but now we are concentrating on the cross-country and then we will look to the next day.”

Competing at her very first Badminton, 20-year-old Emily King said, “I’m absolutely over the moon. ‘Brook’ was really good; he went in the ring and warmed up very well and kept that into the main arena. I knew he was capable of doing such a good test. He kept his cool very well so I was over the moon!”

“I think the ground will be perfect for the cross-country, so the conditions can’t be better. If it stays like this tomorrow too, I think we will have a great day and enjoy the day,” said Ostholt, currently lying in third place.

Having won both the 2015 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials and the 2016 Rolex Kentucky, Jung is now just one competition away from the coveted USD$350,000 Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing prize. He has traveled to Badminton straight from Kentucky to try to win the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing.

HISTORY OF THE ROLEX GRAND SLAM

In 2001 Rolex was inspired to link the three foremost eventing competitions in the world into a Grand Slam. Badminton – the British horse trials on which the modern sport of eventing was founded, Kentucky – the premier US event, and Burghley – the East of England’s showpiece event, formed the competition.

Every year these three events attract world class competition and crowds of enthusiastic supporters eager to bear witness to equestrian greatness. It became immediately apparent that, completing the challenge and winning the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing, would require a series of outstanding performances from a remarkable athlete.

Since its inception in 2001, only one rider has risen to the challenge: Britain’s much loved and highly decorated team member, Pippa Funnell. In April 2003 she rode Primmore’s Pride to victory at Rolex Kentucky, beginning her Rolex Grand Slam campaign. A week later, this time riding double European champion Supreme Rock, Funnell was crowned Badminton winner. A few months later, Funnell reigned supreme at Burghley, riding Primmore’s Pride again, outperforming fellow Rolex Testimonee Zara Phillips, who finished in second place. Pippa Funnell immediately joined the ranks of sporting greats and became a Rolex Testimonee.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Rolex SA
Virginie Chevailler
virginie.chevailler@rolex.com
+41 (0)22 302 2761

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rod@revolutionsports.co.uk
+44 (0)7770 647 662

Jung Maintains Clear Lead after Cross-Country at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event

Photos courtesy of Rolex.

30 April 2016, Lexington, USA – Michael Jung riding Fischerrocana FST put in a masterclass cross-country performance with a clear round and just 0.8 time penalties to maintain his position as the current leader after Day Three of the 2016 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. Jung has led the competition from Day One after his near flawless Dressage test and now has the final Show Jumping phase tomorrow to put him one step closer towards the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing prize.

Phillip Dutton (USA) rode two brilliant rounds over the cross-country course despite difficult conditions in the rain, to finish Day Three in both second place riding Fernhill Fugitive and also in third place on Mighty Nice after the Day Three Cross-Country. A total of 64 competitors started the testing cross-country course with 56 finishing in front 34,500 passionate Eventing fans. Michael Jung was the fastest rider of all 64 competitors.

TOP FIVE RESULTS AFTER DAY THREE CROSS-COUNTRY

1. Michael Jung (GER), Fischerrocana FST, 35.2
2. Phillip Dutton (USA), Fernhill Fugitive, 47.5
3. Phillip Dutton (USA), Mighty Nice, 49.8
4. Maya Black (USA), Doesn’t Playfair, 49.9
5. Boyd Martin (USA), Shamwari 4, 50.2

Phillip Dutton
Phillip Dutton

ROLEX GRAND SLAM OF EVENTING

“I am absolutely very happy about my horse [Fischerrocana]. She was absolutely fighting and really concentrating and always trusting me – that gives me as a rider a great feeling,” said current leader Michael Jung.

Lying in both second and third place, USA rider Phillip Dutton said, “It was not easy today with the conditions, especially as the day went on. I was so pleased with how my guys went and was a great learning experience for them.”

“This is my second time at Rolex. I did it last year with the same horse [Doesn’t Playfair] and that’s about as much experience as I have at this level. I wasn’t worried about any specific fences, but just more concerned about getting around safely with my horse and making sure I did the best thing for him,” said Maya Black (USA), lying in fourth position after cross-country.

Michael Jung has travelled to the Kentucky Horse Park as the new Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing ‘live contender’ and as defending champion of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Land Rover.

All eyes remain on Jung to see if he can repeat the form he demonstrated in 2015, by winning this year’s Rolex Kentucky, which will put him one competition away from the coveted USD$350,000 Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing prize.

Maya Black
Maya Black

HISTORY OF THE ROLEX GRAND SLAM

In 2001 Rolex was inspired to link the three foremost eventing competitions in the world into a Grand Slam. Badminton – the British horse trials on which the modern sport of eventing was founded, Kentucky – the premier US event, and Burghley – the East of England’s showpiece event, formed the competition.

Every year these three events attract world class competition and crowds of enthusiastic supporters eager to bear witness to equestrian greatness. It became immediately apparent that, completing the challenge and winning the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing, would require a series of outstanding performances from a remarkable athlete.

Since its inception in 2001, only one rider has risen to the challenge: Britain’s much loved and highly decorated team member, Pippa Funnell. In April 2003 she rode Primmore’s Pride to victory at Rolex Kentucky, beginning her Rolex Grand Slam campaign. A week later, this time riding double European champion Supreme Rock, Funnell was crowned Badminton winner. A few months later, Funnell reigned supreme at Burghley, riding Primmore’s Pride again, outperforming fellow Rolex Testimonee Zara Phillips, who finished in second place. Pippa Funnell immediately joined the ranks of sporting greats and became a Rolex Testimonee.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Rolex SA
Virginie Chevailler
virginie.chevailler@rolex.com
+41 (0)22 302 2761

Revolution Sports + Entertainment
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rod@revolutionsports.co.uk
+44 (0)7770 647 662

Jung Maintains Leads at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day with Sights Set on Rolex Grand Slam

Photo courtesy of Rolex.

30 April 2016, Lexington, USA – Michael Jung riding Fischerrocana FST has maintained his position as the current leader after Day Two of the dressage phase of the 2016 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event and now has his sights firmly set on the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing prize.

Allison Springer (USA) riding Arthur are now lying in second place behind Jung, with Marilyn Little (USA) riding RF Demeter in third place, after the Day Two Dressage. A total of 71 competitors completed the dressage phases with riders represented from nine nations.

TOP FIVE RESULTS AFTER DAY TWO DRESSAGE

1. Michael Jung (GER), Fischerrocana FST, 34.1
2. Allison Springer (USA), Arthur, 39.7
3. Marilyn Little (USA), RF Demeter, 42.5
4. Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp (USA), Fernhill By Night, 43.0
5. Philip Dutton (USA), Fernhill Fugitive, 43.1

ROLEX GRAND SLAM OF EVENTING

Jung has all his options covered ahead of Saturday’s 29 fence cross-country course and said, “At the moment we will try to go fast. My horse feels very happy and very strong, but that can change tomorrow morning.  Rolex Kentucky and the Rolex Grand Slam are very important to me. It’s a very long trip here – I am not coming here to having a nice holiday. I come here to win!”

Competing in their seventh Rolex Kentucky, Allison Springer said, “It’s always so emotional and wonderful to be here. I’ve had such a long partnership with the horse [Arthur]. He’s tricky, but it brings a tear to my eye just to be able to be here where the crowd cheers you on. It’s just such a great feeling here.”

Marilyn Little was thrilled with her ride and said, “There were some moments of brilliance today, but there were also a few mistakes. It was certainly one of her more relaxed tests.”

Michael Jung has traveled to the Kentucky Horse Park as the new Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing ‘live contender’ and as defending champion of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Land Rover.

All eyes are now on Jung to see if he can repeat the form he demonstrated in 2015, by winning this year’s Rolex Kentucky, which will put him one competition away from the coveted USD$350,000 Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing prize.

HISTORY OF THE ROLEX GRAND SLAM

In 2001 Rolex was inspired to link the three foremost eventing competitions in the world into a Grand Slam. Badminton – the British horse trials on which the modern sport of eventing was founded, Kentucky – the premier US event, and Burghley – the East of England’s showpiece event, formed the competition.

Every year these three events attract world class competition and crowds of enthusiastic supporters eager to bear witness to equestrian greatness. It became immediately apparent that, completing the challenge and winning the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing, would require a series of outstanding performances from a remarkable athlete.

Since its inception in 2001, only one rider has risen to the challenge: Britain’s much loved and highly decorated team member, Pippa Funnell. In April 2003 she rode Primmore’s Pride to victory at Rolex Kentucky, beginning her Rolex Grand Slam campaign. A week later, this time riding double European champion Supreme Rock, Funnell was crowned Badminton winner. A few months later, Funnell reigned supreme at Burghley, riding Primmore’s Pride again, outperforming fellow Rolex Testimonee Zara Phillips, who finished in second place. Pippa Funnell immediately joined the ranks of sporting greats and became a Rolex Testimonee.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Rolex SA
Virginie Chevailler
virginie.chevailler@rolex.com
+41 (0)22 302 2761

Revolution Sports + Entertainment
Rod Kohler
rod@revolutionsports.co.uk
+44 (0)7770 647 662

Michael Jung Leads Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event 2016 to Contend for the Rolex Grand Slam

Photo courtesy of Rolex.

28 April 2016, Lexington, USA – Michael Jung riding Fischerrocana FST put in a near flawless dressage performance on Day 1 of the 2016 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event to put himself firmly in contention for the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing prize.

Elizabeth Halliday-Sharp (USA) riding Fernhill by Night are currently in second place behind Jung, with Phillip Dutton (USA) riding Fernhill Fugitive in third place after the Day 1 Dressage. 35 competitors completed their dressage tests on Day 1, with riders represented from seven international nations.

TOP FIVE RESULTS AFTER DAY 1 DRESSAGE

1. Michael Jung (GER), Fischerroncana FST, 34.1
2. Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp (USA), Fernhill By Night, 43.0
3. Philip Dutton (USA), Fernhill Fugitive, 43.1
4. Boyd Martin (USA), Shamwari, 44.6
5. Maya Black (USA), Doesn’t Play Fair, 45.5

ROLEX GRAND SLAM OF EVENTING

Michael Jung has traveled to the Kentucky Horse Park as the new Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing ‘live contender’ and as defending champion of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Land Rover.

All eyes are now on Jung to see if he can repeat the form he demonstrated in 2015, by winning this year’s Rolex Kentucky, which will put him one competition away from the coveted USD$350,000 Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing prize.

Speaking after today’s Dressage test, Michael Jung said, “It [Rolex Grand Slam] is on my mind and that is the reason why I take one horse here and one horse to Badminton next week. When we go to the competition we try to win, but at the end of the day you have to listen to your horse. In the cross-country when you have a very good feeling in the warm up and that your horse is really ready and the weather, the ground and the conditions are all good then you can try and go forward.”

HISTORY OF THE ROLEX GRAND SLAM

In 2001 Rolex was inspired to link the three foremost eventing competitions in the world into a Grand Slam. Badminton – the British horse trials on which the modern sport of eventing was founded, Kentucky – the premier US event, and Burghley – the East of England’s showpiece event, formed the competition.

Every year these three events attract world class competition and crowds of enthusiastic supporters eager to bear witness to equestrian greatness. It became immediately apparent that, completing the challenge and winning the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing, would require a series of outstanding performances from a remarkable athlete.

Since its inception in 2001, only one rider has risen to the challenge: Britain’s much loved and highly decorated team member, Pippa Funnell. In April 2003 she rode Primmore’s Pride to victory at Rolex Kentucky, beginning her Rolex Grand Slam campaign. A week later, this time riding double European champion Supreme Rock, Funnell was crowned Badminton winner. A few months later, Funnell reigned supreme at Burghley, riding Primmore’s Pride again, outperforming fellow Rolex Testimonee Zara Phillips, who finished in second place. Pippa Funnell immediately joined the ranks of sporting greats and became a Rolex Testimonee.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Rolex SA
Virginie Chevailler
virginie.chevailler@rolex.com
+41 (0)22 302 2761

Revolution Sports + Entertainment
Rod Kohler
rod@revolutionsports.co.uk
+44 (0)7770 647 662

International Field Returns to Kentucky to Contend for 2016 Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing

18 April 2016, Lexington, USA – Three-day eventing is considered by many to be the ultimate equine test. The triathlon of equestrianism, the competition sees horse and rider partnerships compete across gender and age boundaries in three different disciplines: dressage, cross-country and show jumping, requiring a unique range of skills from precision and elegance to accuracy, bravery and perfect timing. It tests the resolve of the timeless partnership between horse and rider.

In 1998, Rolex Kentucky became the third annual CCI4* event in the world and remains the only one on the American continent. There are now six CCI4* events in total, but only three offer the chance to claim the sport’s greatest prize, the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing. In order to make history and lift this prestigious trophy, riders must win at all three Rolex supported events in succession: Rolex Kentucky, Mitsubishi Motors Badminton and Land Rover Burghley CCI4*.

Rolex Kentucky attracts the world’s leading riders and is considered the highlight of the US eventing calendar. As a result, the 2016 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event Presented by Land Rover will also act as the last major official trial for the 2016 US Olympic eventing team. Located at the impressive Kentucky Horse Park, the state-of-the-art, outdoor, Rolex-sponsored stadium, with its 30,000 seating capacity, is the centrepiece of the event.

THE ROLEX GRAND SLAM OF EVENTING

In 2001 Rolex was inspired to link the three foremost eventing competitions in the world into a Grand Slam. Badminton – the British horse trials on which the modern sport of eventing was founded, Kentucky – the premier US event, and Burghley – the East of England’s showpiece event, formed the competition.

Every year these three events attract world class competition and crowds of enthusiastic supporters eager to bear witness to equestrian greatness. It became immediately apparent that, completing the challenge and winning the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing, would require a series of outstanding performances from a remarkable athlete.

Since its inception in 2001, only one rider has risen to the challenge: Britain’s much loved and highly decorated team member, Pippa Funnell. In April 2003 she rode Primmore’s Pride to victory at Rolex Kentucky, beginning her Rolex Grand Slam campaign. A week later, this time riding double European champion Supreme Rock, Funnell was crowned Badminton winner. A few months later, Funnell reigned supreme at Burghley, riding Primmore’s Pride again, outperforming fellow Rolex Testimonee Zara Phillips, who finished in second place. Pippa Funnell immediately joined the ranks of sporting greats and became a Rolex Testimonee.

Since then, two of the three legs of the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing have been won by four different riders: Australia’s Andrew Hoy, Britain’s William Fox-Pitt and Oliver Townend, and New Zealand’s Andrew Nicholson. None of these top-class riders have yet succeeded in triumphing over the series and winning the final element of the Rolex Grand Slam.

THE CURRENT CHALLENGE

Here to contest for the 2016 Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing is reigning champion and the current live contender Michael Jung. Jung won individual gold at the World Equestrian Games when held in Kentucky in 2010 and claimed victory at the 2015 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, riding Fischerrocana FST.

Jung will be looking to continue his winning form from Burghley and stake his claim for the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing prize in 2016. Should Jung be victorious on Fischerrocana FST, they will be only the third horse and rider combination in the history of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event to retain their Lexington title.

INTERNATIONAL FIELD OF ENTRIES

The Rolex Kentucky Three-Day event attracts the world’s most talented eventers and 2016 is no exception, the competition will welcome 71 elite riders from nine different nations. For the third year running, the nations will compete in teams as well as individually. The team – comprised of a minimum of three competitors – that ends on the fewest penalties will be victorious.

VALUED PRIZE MONEY

For the second year running the prize money at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event has increased thanks to the ongoing support from the events long-term partners and sponsors. Event organizer and EEI President Stewart Perry remarked, “We proudly award prize money to the top 20 finishers and this record level of prize money fits with our position as one of the sport’s premier events.”

EVENTING HISTORY

As the crown in equestrianism for over 50 years, Rolex is proud to be a major force at play behind the sport’s finest events, riders and organizations. Whether supporting leading eventing athletes including Zara Phillips and Pippa Funnell, or maintaining tradition and excellence with the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, Rolex has cultivated a privileged relationship with the elite world of equestrian sports.

Rolex has been closely associated with this exceptional equestrian challenge in the beautiful surroundings of the Kentucky Horse Park since 1981.

Its facilities are recognized as the best of any three-day event in the world and it is renowned for testing the courage and stamina of both horse and rider. Rolex’s support has seen the event develop into one of the most prestigious in the world, with top riders from round the globe now vying to compete there.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Rolex SA
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Michael Jung Wins Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials

Photo credit – ROLEX/Kit Houghton.

Burghley, UK, 6 September 2015 – In an exciting finale, Germany’s Michael Jung and his supreme partner, La Biosthetique Sam FBW, rode a perfect clear round in front of a packed arena under glorious blue skies, to take the 2015 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials title.

It was a hugely tense final show jumping round, where the reigning Olympic and European Champion could not afford a single pole down, with New Zealand’s Tim Price having already jumped a brilliant clear. The crowd was hushed as Jung and his 16-year-old Sam, arguably the best event horse of the modern era, rode into the arena, but another show jumping masterclass with just one touch on fence 12, secured Jung his first Burghley win.

“To come to Burghley is amazing; to ride the cross-country was wonderful and to win here at an event which is such a great tradition in the sport is just fantastic. This will be one of the highlights of my life,” said Jung. “I really enjoyed it here and hope I will have horses for it next year. Sam is like a good friend and we make a good partnership. I know him so well and have learnt a lot from him and with him. Maybe he’s also learnt a bit from me. He gives me 100%. Today he felt very powerful and concentrated in the warm-up and that helps a lot.”

The Burghley win completed a double for Jung in the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing titles in 2015, with just the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials title preventing him from claiming the coveted prize and new Rolex Trophy.

Tim Price rode the ride of his life finishing in second place on Ringwood Sky Boy, just 1.5 penalty points behind Jung. This was also to be the second time he would be runner-up behind the German, having finished second behind Jung at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event earlier this year on his other horse, Wesko.

“The horse has been improving in every way, so I knew I could be up there in the dressage and hoped I’d stay there after the cross-country, but to still be in this position today is very exciting,” said Price. “Ringwood Sky Boy is not natural in the show jumping, but he tries very hard and he is learning to be careful at the right times.”

Price’s wife, Jonelle, whose fast cross-country round on Classic Moet had impressed everyone, unfortunately had one pole down in the final show jumping phase to drop her from third to fifth place.

SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE RIDERS DOMINATE

It was a memorable Burghley for the southern hemisphere riders with the second to sixth places all claimed by riders from either Australia or New Zealand. Australia’s Christopher Burton delivered two sublime performances on both his rides, TS Jamaimo and Haruzac to finish third and fourth, and ensuring he was the only rider to finish on his dressage score of 45.0 on TS Jamaimo.

“I’m delighted with both horses. In 2004 as a young rider I flew a horse here from Australia, but we only got as far as fence 3,” said Burton. “Yesterday was the first time I’d seen the finish flags!”

Sir Mark Todd completed the domination from the southern hemisphere by riding a clear show jumping round to move up from seventh to sixth on Leonidas II.

France’s Cedric Lyard riding Cadeau Du Roi also rose one rank with a fault-free round to finish seventh. Great Britain’s Tina Cook jumped a brilliant clear with Star Witness to be best of the British in eighth, with Australia’s Sam Griffith on Paulank Brockagh in ninth and William Fox-Pitt climbing three places finishing the event in tenth despite having one fence down on Fernhill Pimms.

TOP 5 FINAL PLACINGS

1st   Michael Jung (GER), La Biosthetique Sam FRW, 40.0
2nd   Tim Price (NZL), Ringwood Sky Boy, 41.5
3rd   Christopher Burton (AUS), TS Mamaimo, 45.0
4th   Christopher Burton (AUS), Haruzac, 47.6
5th   Jonelle Price (NZL), Classic Monet, 48.9

For full results, please visit: http://www.bdwp.co.uk/bur/15/.

THE ROLEX GRAND SLAM OF EVENTING

When Rolex was inspired to link the three foremost eventing competitions in the world into a Grand Slam in 2001, it was immediately apparent that it would require a series of outstanding performances from a remarkable athlete to complete the challenge.

Kentucky, and Badminton – the British horse trials on which the modern sport of eventing was founded – run two weeks apart in the spring, and Burghley, in the east of England, is the autumn highlight of the global sport. All three have stunning settings and attract vast crowds over the four days of competition.

To date, only one rider – Rolex Eventing Testimonee Pippa Funnell – has won this most prestigious series. In 2003 the much-medalled mainstay of British teams for many years took the Rolex Kentucky crown on Primmore’s Pride. She progressed to Badminton a week later and won there on Supreme Rock, her double European Champion, and added the Burghley title that autumn on Primmore’s Pride – beating Zara Phillips into second place on her four-star debut at the same time. Pippa Funnell immediately joined the ranks of sporting greats, respected by her peers and the media alike as an exceptional athlete.

Since then, two of the three legs of the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing have been won by four riders: the Australian Andrew Hoy, Britain’s William Fox-Pitt and Oliver Townend, and the New Zealand hero of six Olympic Games and current live Rolex Grand Slam contender, Andrew Nicholson. None of these top-class riders have yet succeeded in triumphing over the series and winning the final element of the Rolex Grand Slam.

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History Is Made as Andrew Nicholson Claims Hat-Trick of Burghley Horse Trials

Photo: ROLEX.

Avebury is the first horse in the history of the competition to win three times in succession

(Burghley, UK, 7 September 2014) Andrew Nicholson (NZL), riding Avebury, today Sunday 7 May 2014, made history and produced a thrilling and faultless ride to win the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials for the third consecutive year. Jonathan Paget (NZL) riding Clifton Promise was in 2nd place and Sam Griffiths (AUS) riding Happy Times came in 3rd place.

New Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing ‘Live Contender’

As the winner of the 2014 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials, Andrew Nicholson is now the new ‘live contender’ for the prestigious Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing accolade. Nicholson will now target the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event and try and win the next stage of the three leg phase to become the second ever rider to have won this exceptional award.

Results after the final Show Jumping Phase

1. Andrew Nicholson / Avebury (NZL) 48.1
2. Jonathan Paget / Clifton Promise (NZL) 55.2
3. Sam Griffiths / Happy Times (AUS) 57.8
4. William Fox-Pitt / Bay My Hero (GBR) 60.3
5. Gemma Tattersall / Arctic Soul (GBR) 64.2
6. Bill Levett / Improvise (AUS) 65.9
7. Izzy Taylor / Kbis Briarlands Matilda (GBR) 67.5
8. Oliver Townend / Armada (GBR) 71.1
9. Jonelle Price / The Deputy (NZL) 71.1
10. Murray Lamperd / Under The Clocks (AUS) 79.0

With just 12 clear rounds from the 39 riders that started the final show jumping phase, Nicholson entered the arena knowing he needed a good performance in order to be crowned the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials victor and become the new Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing ‘live contender’.

Despite the perfect weather conditions and good ground, the 580 meter course, created by acclaimed Course Designer Richard Jeffrey, proved tricky for the morning’s competitors, after yesterday’s adrenaline-charged cross-country course with only three clear rounds between them. In the afternoon session, Jonathan Paget produced a faultless round, putting the pressure on Sam Griffiths. A few unlucky touches resulted in eight faults for the Badminton winner, knocking him into third place and allowing Paget to move into second.

The atmosphere was tense with silence falling amongst the crowd for Nicholson’s round. Avebury was looking full of energy as they entered the ring, 13 jumps away from making history and becoming the first horse and rider combination to win the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials consecutively over three years. The packed grandstands went wild as the established partnership neatly jumped over the final double, producing a clear round and claiming victory at Burghley once more.

Rider Quotes

Andrew Nicholson riding Avebury: “I didn’t feel that cool during that, I can tell you. He’s a good jumper; he’s been there and done it all. I don’t have to worry about him getting nervous with all the people; I just have to keep calm and ride him like I normally ride him. It’s a big team effort when you have a horse like this who has now won this three times in a row; they’re as passionate as I am that he does well. For me, I’ve had a very bad year this year; I threw away Badminton on Nereo, and I shouldn’t have fallen off when I did. The World Equestrian Games – I was ninth when I wanted to get a medal so I’ve been putting quite a lot of pressure on him to win here. Hopefully I will be able to go to Kentucky and go for the Rolex Grand Slam but I am a little light on horses at the moment, so we will assess in February and see how we are going.”

Sam Griffiths riding Happy Times: “I always knew the last line was going to be difficult for this horse, he had a rail down early on and apart from that I don’t think he touched a fence, so yeah, I was quite disappointed to come out two down. It’s a very tense atmosphere; the horses have to be so good after jumping round that course yesterday. I really wanted to try and win for him here; he really deserves a four star win.”

Jonathan Paget riding Clifton Promise: “I was very happy with him jumping clear. He’s pretty seasoned and knows his job pretty well; he was very cool and calm throughout the whole thing which makes my job easy to guide him round. I’m very happy with my horse; he’s performed for me like he normally does, you know; he went in and we had fun together.”

For more information on the 2014 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials and full Results/Leaderboard, please visit www.burghley-horse.co.uk.

Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing

In 2001, Rolex created the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing. This prize is awarded to the rider who manages to win the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials and the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials event in any consecutive order. Until now, only British rider Pippa Funnell has managed this staggering achievement, winning the title in 2003.

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