Category Archives: Revolution Sports

Community/Charity, Dressage, Eventing/H.T., London International Horse Show, Revolution Sports, Training/Clinics

London International Horse Show Announces Dressage Masterclass with Ros Canter

Photo: Peter Nixon

Organisers of London International Horse Show are proud to unveil the latest instalment of its acclaimed LeMieux Masterclass Series, the “Flawless Flying Changes Masterclass,” taking place on Wednesday 18 December in the New Horizon Plastics London Arena. The Masterclass will feature Paris 2024 Olympic Games team gold medallist and individual FEI Eventing World Champion, Rosalind Canter, and will be presented by British Olympic Dressage rider and World Championship silver medallist Richard Davison.

The hour-long Masterclass promises to be an invaluable learning experience for equestrians of all levels, offering insights into the art of flying changes – a fundamental skill across multiple equestrian disciplines. Davison will be joined by Canter, who most recently won the CCI5* competition at the prestigious Defender Burghley Horse Trials, along with two additional elite riders from the realms of both Show Jumping and Dressage – whose names are soon to be revealed. Together, Davison and the esteemed trio will offer a unique, multidisciplinary perspective on mastering flying changes, from simple changes to advanced tempi movements.

Davison is a familiar face at London International Horse Show, having competed at the Show for over 20 years, a tenure during which he has also represented Great Britain at numerous Championships. Davison’s expertise and deep understanding of Dressage makes him the perfect guide for this Masterclass.

Davison commented: “I am thrilled to be back at London International to present this new Masterclass. Flying changes are absolutely vital in all areas of equestrian sport, and we are going to break them down in a practical and beneficial way for every rider in the audience. Working alongside Ros and two other experts will, I hope, make this a truly dynamic and educational experience.”

The ‘Flawless Flying Changes Masterclass’ aims to provide riders with a comprehensive understanding of how to perform immaculate flying changes – from straightforward single changes to the more challenging one-time tempi movements. The session will not only showcase the skills of world-class riders but will also offer clear demonstrations and step-by-step explanations designed to elevate riders’ flatwork and dressage capabilities.

Simon Brooks-Ward, Show Director, said: “The LeMieux Masterclass Series offers an exceptional platform for world-renowned riders to share their expertise with a passionate and eager audience. Richard Davison’s Masterclass is set to be a highlight of this year’s show. We are also incredibly honoured to welcome Ros Canter, who has achieved extraordinary success this year, alongside two other remarkable riders who will be announced soon.”

Whether an aspiring equestrian looking to refine flying changes or an experienced veteran aiming to perfect their performance, the ‘Flawless Flying Changes Masterclass’ is an unmissable opportunity to learn from some of the very best in equestrian sport.

The “Flawless Flying Changes Masterclass” takes place in the New Horizon Plastics London Arena on Wednesday 18 December at 13:15. To purchase your tickets to the London International Horse Show 2024, please click here.

For more information, please contact: Niki McEwen / rEvolution / nmcewen@revolutionworld.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Competitions, Revolution Sports, Show Jumping, Spruce Meadows

Martin Fuchs Wins CPKC ‘International’ Grand Prix at Spruce Meadows

Martin Fuchs ©Rolex/Thomas Lovelock

Geneva, 9 September 2024 –Martin Fuchs delivered a supreme performance to win the CPKC ‘International’ Grand Prix, presented by Rolex, at the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament 2024 to claim a back-to-back victory. Competing against the world’s top show jumpers, Fuchs and his grey gelding, Leone Jei, triumphed after three demanding rounds, defending their title and becoming the new Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping live contender.

Regarded as one of the sport’s toughest challenges, the CPKC ‘International’ Grand Prix demands the greatest levels of precision, agility, and excellence from both horse and rider. Fuchs and Leone Jei exhibited these qualities in abundance, navigating each round with remarkable skillfulness to secure the coveted title.

Out of 38 starters, the top 12 progressed to the second round, including previous victors of the title – Steve Guerdat in 2021 and Daniel Deusser in 2022. Richard Vogel also advanced to the second round with the fastest four-fault score, alongside Kevin Staut.

Of the 12 who advanced, five jumped clear, with only Martin Fuchs, Darragh Kenny, and Daniel Deusser successfully navigating Leopoldo Palacios’ challenging second-round course to secure the double clears needed for the final jump-off. Fuchs was first to tackle the shortened jump-off course, and despite four faults, his final score was enough to secure his fourth Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major title. Kenny, riding VDL Cartello, followed with six faults, while Deusser and Killer Queen VDM finished third with eight faults.

The equestrian world now turns its attention to the CHI Geneva in December, where Fuchs uniquely claimed sequential victories in 2019 and 2021. This year, he will return to his home Major aiming for a third Rolex Grand Prix win at the CHI Geneva, while also continuing his pursuit of the sport’s ultimate challenge – the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. This prestigious prize is awarded to any rider who consecutively wins the Grand Prix at three of the four Majors: The Dutch Masters, the CHIO Aachen, the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament, and the CHI Geneva.

The highlights film can be seen here:

Victoria Carles
Rolex SA
victoria.carles@rolex.com

Merrick Haydon
rEvolution
mhaydon@revolutionworld.com

Community/Charity, Competitions, London International Horse Show, Revolution Sports, Show Jumping

Decorated Olympian Ben Maher Announced as London International Horse Show Ambassador

Three-time Olympic gold medallist, Ben Maher, has been announced as an Official Ambassador of the 2024 edition of London International Horse Show, which this year runs from 18-22 December at ExCeL London.

The British Show Jumper, who is currently ranked World No. 2, was part of this summer’s gold medal winning team at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games aboard his stunning 11-year-old mare, Dallas Vegas Batilly. This sensational result added to his two previous gold medals, having won team gold at London 2012, and individual gold in Tokyo 2020, means Maher holds the title of the most decorated British Olympic Show Jumper of all time.

This December, Maher will return to ExCeL London to defend his Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ title, having secured the victory last year in one of the most exhilarating jump-offs to ever take place at the Show. Last to go in the class, and riding Enjeu de Grisien, Maher produced a textbook round to take the win from teammate Scott Brash by just 0.62 seconds.

Show Jumping commences at ExCeL London on Wednesday 18th December with The Ivy Stakes in the afternoon followed by the return of the LeMieux Puissance in the evening, which was last year won by specialists Guy Williams and Mr Blue Sky for the third year running. The Christmas Pudding Speed Stakes takes place on Thursday afternoon and the famous London Grand Prix on Friday evening – a class visitors will not want to miss. The weekend is then capped off in style with the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ on Sunday 22nd December where the finest horse and rider combinations will gather to compete for the prestigious prize.

Speaking on his role as an Official Ambassador for the Show, Maher stated: “I am delighted to be an Ambassador at this year’s London International Horse Show. As riders we travel around the world, so it is incredibly special to be back in England for our final competition before Christmas. The atmosphere is fantastic, and having all our friends and family supporting is a truly amazing experience.”

As an ambassador, Maher will extend the narrative of the Show beyond the event itself, providing an insight into how a rider prepares for such a prestigious event. Through activities such as an appearance on the Show’s Live Zone, Maher’s ambassadorial role will enable fans to experience exclusive behind the scenes content and will facilitate unique insights into the life of a top international Show Jumping competitor.

Show Director, Simon Brooks-Ward, stated: “We are delighted to announce Ben Maher, one of the country’s finest Show Jumpers, as an Official Ambassador. He has had so much success at the Show and is always a crowd favourite when he enters the arena. Following his recent success in Paris over the summer, we are thrilled to be welcoming him back to London ExCeL and look forward to watching him be a part of more unmissable sporting moments.”

In addition, to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the British equestrian athletes at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the Show will welcome the Team GB Olympic and Paralympic Equestrian heroes, including Maher, in a medal parade which will take place during the evening performance on Wednesday 18 December.

To purchase your tickets to the London International Horse Show 2024, please click here.

For more information, please contact: Niki McEwen / rEvolution / nmcewen@revolutionworld.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Eventing/H.T., London International Horse Show, Revolution Sports, Training/Clinics

Megan Elphick and Richard Waygood’s Eventing Masterclass Returns to London International 2024

Megan Elphick taking part in last year’s Masterclass at London International Horse Show 2023 @LondonInternationalHorseShow/PeterNixon

The organisers of London International Horse Show are delighted to announce the first in the LeMieux Masterclass series for this year’s Show, which takes place at ExCeL London from 18-22 December 2024.

The eventing-focused masterclass, Grassroots to Glory, will take place on Friday 20 December in the New Horizon Plastics London Arena, and will feature world-renowned coach Richard Waygood MBE alongside YouTube personality and equestrian Megan Elphick. The pair will be joined by a top event rider to be selected this Summer after the Paris Olympics.

Bringing the outdoors indoors, the session will focus on how to improve cross-country riding and technique across a range of obstacles and challenges in an arena setting. Perfect for picking up tips to practice over the long winter months, coach Richard Waygood will use a mix of poles and indoor cross-country fences provided by Jump for Joy to design a series of exercises suitable for all levels, aimed at improving confidence, capability, and technique. The Masterclass provides the perfect way for eventing fans to keep their training momentum up over the winter; Grassroots to Glory will showcase the best of both top-level talent and grassroots graft.

Currently the British Equestrian Federation’s Technical Director and Eventing Performance Manager, Richard Waygood has a string of achievements, including riding at the Mars Badminton Horse Trials and at the Defender Burghley Horse Trials, and his long tenure as Riding Master of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, alongside an MBE for services to equestrianism.

YouTuber Megan Elphick will be making her third appearance in a Masterclass at the London International, following packed-out performances in last year’s session with Laura Collett, and 2022’s session with Pippa Funnell.

Richard Waygood stated: “I’m delighted to be coming back to London International Horse Show this year with Grassroots to Glory after we had such a great time last year. Hopefully the crowd around the New Horizon Plastics London Arena will be inspired by this Summer’s sport and enjoy a new take on cross-country training. We had great fun in 2023 with Meg and Laura Collett, so I’m looking forward to pushing Meg out of her comfort zone again this year!”

Megan Elphick added: “I can’t wait to return to London this year for another LeMieux Masterclass – it was brilliant to see such a great turnout in 2023! Richard managed to make last year’s exercises applicable to both me and Laura Collett, which is an impressive gap to bridge… so definitely one to come and watch, regardless of your level! See you there.”

Elsewhere at the Show, Megan will also be making two appearances on the Live Zone for Meet & Greet sessions, on Thursday 19 December at 17:30 and Friday 20 December at 10:00. Both Meet & Greets will be first come, first served, open to that day’s ticket holders.

For more information, please contact: Niki McEwen / rEvolution / nmcewen@revolutionworld.com

Competitions, Revolution Sports, Show Jumping

The Rolex Series: A New Era for Show Jumping

©Rolex/Thomas Lovelock. From left to right: Frederic Tarder, Organizer of the Jumping International de Dinard; Marco di Paola, President of the Italian Equestrian Sports Federation; Diego Nepi, Event Director of the CSIO Roma Piazza di Siena; Pierre de Brissac, President of the CSIO Jumping International de La Baule; Steve Guerdat, Rolex Testimonee; Laurent Delanney, Rolex Sponsoring Director; Conny Mütze, Steering Committee representative of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping; Stephan Conter, CEO of the Brussels Stephex Masters; Michael Stone, President of Wellington International; Pat Hanly, Deputy Chief Executive of the RDS Dublin Horse Show

Geneva, 23 May 2024 – Rolex has announced the introduction of the Rolex Series in show jumping, uniting six of the most prestigious equestrian shows in the world, each supported by the brand. Revealed at the opening Rolex Series event – the CSIO Roma Piazza di Siena – the Rolex Series will also include the CSIO Jumping International de La Baule, the Jumping International de Dinard, the Dublin Horse Show, the Brussels Stephex Masters, and the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, USA.

These six historic shows share several distinguishing qualities, with each globally renowned event offering age-old traditions, the highest standard of competition, and having been won by the very best riders in the history of the sport. The introduction of the Rolex Series will allow the six shows to work together as a collective group as they strive for continual improvement.

Rolex has been a committed partner of equestrianism for almost 70 years, dating back to 1957 when pioneering British show jumper Pat Smythe became the sport’s first Testimonee. The brand’s contribution to excellence in equestrianism encourages modernization while respecting the traditions and elegance of the sport, as can be seen with the introduction of the Rolex Series in show jumping. The Rolex Series will mark a new era in the sport, elevating the premier world-class show jumping events into unmissable sporting occasions.

Arnaud Boetsch, Rolex Global Communications Director, said: “Rolex’s contribution to excellence in equestrianism is based on almost 70 years of support, encouraging innovation while respecting the traditions of the sport. After the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, renowned as the pinnacle of the sport, the Rolex Series will build upon the legacy that the brand has cultivated over this time. The six shows within the Rolex Series are united in their qualities, each celebrated for their world-class competition, leading facilities, and notable histories, and being part of the Rolex Series will provide a mark of distinction above and beyond other five-star shows.”

Each of the shows, which take place across Europe and North America, reflect Rolex’s own enduring commitment to excellence, all having a deep-rooted history in equestrianism harnessing the tradition of the sport while embracing innovation with a continual drive for improvement. The pinnacle class of each of the six shows will be the Rolex Grand Prix, where horses and riders are required to be in complete harmony as they strive for the courage and trust needed to be victorious.

The Rolex Grands Prix at these six venues have been won by some of the best show jumping horse and rider combinations in the sport, including Bertram Allen, Daniel Deusser, Kent Farrington, Martin Fuchs, Rodrigo Pessoa, and Jessica Springsteen.

Steve Guerdat, who attended the launch, stated: “The six shows that are part of the Rolex Series are some of the best shows in the world and the ones that we all, as riders, mark in our schedule every year. They are some of the most prestigious and historically significant competitions on our calendar, and by bringing this amazing group of shows together as part of the Rolex Series, the prestige and desire to win is only going to increase.”

The CSIO Roma Piazza di Siena, the first show to host a Rolex Series event, is held at the Villa Borghese Gardens in Rome, acknowledged as one of the sport’s most beautiful venues. The show has a rich history, with roots dating back more than a century. Combining elegance and style with world-class sport and athleticism, the show attracts competitors from around the world to the Italian capital from 22-26 May.

In June, attention will turn to the CSIO Jumping International de La Baule, where for more than 60 years, the event has hosted the world’s best horse and rider combinations on the picturesque shores of the Atlantic Ocean in western France. This year the Rolex Grand Prix Ville de La Baule takes place on Sunday 9 June.

The prestigious Jumping International de Dinard, taking place from 18-21 July, dates back to 1912 and is now among the most popular and respected events on the international show jumping calendar. Bertram Allen (2015) and Martin Fuchs (2021, 2022) have both claimed the Rolex Grand Prix, which is located on the stunning Brittany coast in France.

Supported this year for the first time by Rolex as the Official Timepiece and Title Sponsor of the CSIO5* Grand Prix, the CSIO Dublin Horse Show, taking place from 14-18 August, has almost 150 years of history, and is the most elite equestrian event in Ireland.

Bertram Allen, who has won the Grand Prix at the CSIO Dublin Horse Show (2014), CSIO Jumping International de La Baule (2015), and Jumping International de Dinard (2015), said: “Whenever you jump in one of these historic Grands Prix, you know you are going to be up against the very best riders and horses in the world, so to win these Grands Prix is always an ambition every year. I am very proud of my wins at these shows and they remain amongst the highlights of my career to date.”

The world’s best horse and rider combinations will head to Belgium for the Brussels Stephex Masters. The show, which in 2024 is celebrating its tenth edition, is known for its intense competition and vibrant atmosphere, and is considered to be one of the finest show jumping events in Europe. Rolex has been the Official Timepiece of the event since 2015, with the Rolex Grand Prix on Sunday 1 September once again providing the highlight of the five-day event.

The Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, USA will host the final Rolex Series event in its inaugural year. Hosted at Wellington International, the show is one of world’s leading hubs for equestrian excellence, attracting the best equestrian athletes from across the globe. The 12-week festival, running from January to March 2025, sees the highest levels of competition, with the Rolex Grand Prix providing a fitting culmination in Week 12.

2024/2025 ROLEX SERIES EVENTS

CSIO Roma Piazza di Siena, 23-26 May 2024
CSIO Jumping International de La Baule, 6-9 June 2024
Jumping International de Dinard, 18-21 July 2024
CSIO Dublin Horse Show, 14-18 August 2024
Brussels Stephex Masters, 28 August – 1 September 2024
Winter Equestrian Festival, WEF Week 12 2025

Delphine Clavel
Rolex SA
delphine.clavel@rolex.com

Merrick Haydon
rEvolution
mhaydon@revolutionworld.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Championships, Competitions, Dressage, Driving, FEI, Hunter/Equitation, Revolution Sports, Show Jumping

Dujardin Dances to Victory on Second Day of London International Horse Show

Charlotte Dujardin (GBR) riding Imhotep @LondonInternationalHorseShow/Ashley Neuhof

Charlotte Dujardin and Imhotep set the ExCeL alight on day two of the London International Horse Show as they took the victory in the FEI Dressage World Cup Freestyle to Music presented by Bret Willson Dressage International Ltd supported by Horse & Hound. The International Arena also saw action from the Extreme Driving supported by Karen and Hugh Scott-Barrett and the Yeti Under-25 British Show Jumping Championship.

Meanwhile, in the New Horizon Plastics London Arena, Showing kicked off with highlights coming from the Rising Star of Cob Type Championship, and the Rising Star of Hunter Type Championship. Spectators were also treated to the first of the LeMieux Masterclass series, ‘Dressage Unwrapped’ featuring FEI Eventing World Champion, Yasmin Ingham, Richard Davison, and Gareth and Ruby Hughes.

FABULOUS FREESTYLE

The pinnacle class of Thursday’s schedule came from the FEI Dressage World Cup Freestyle to Music, which saw a packed International Arena wowed by perfect piaffes and exceptional extensions.

Great Britain’s Charlotte Dujardin and the 10-year-old chestnut stallion Imhotep followed up on their Grand Prix victory, and produced a breathtakingly beautiful performance to the sheer delight of the home crowd to take the win with a score of 89.465%.

It was once again a British top three, with double FEI World Championship gold medallist Lottie Fry claiming the runner-up spot. Fry, who was last to go in the competition with the stunning black stallion Everdale took to the arena with a brand-new Freestyle routine that featured numerous highlights including their phenomenal final line. It was a father-son one-two, with the success of Everdale, the sire of Charlotte’s Imhotep, proving the strength of this bloodline.

Third place went to Becky Moody and her homebred Jagerbomb with a score of 83.675%. The combination was not only making their debut at the Show, but also in the FEI World Cup Qualifier Series. The highest placed international rider was Denise Nekeman, who scored a personal best of 77.035% to claim the fourth spot.

Speaking on her win, Dujardin stated: “This was Imhotep’s first indoor show, and it was a full house tonight; you could hear the crowd in the warm-up, which was really incredible. I was so proud of him; he has never been in that kind of atmosphere before, and so it was a great learning experience for him. Even though he was nervous, he was still with me, which is all I can ask for. He is still a young horse and has so much more to give. I am very excited for what is to come next year!”

Third placed Moody continued: “You dream about riding at this Show. It is somewhere that we all aspire to compete at. I was incredibly nervous in the buildup, and my horse is a legend. Being on the podium with Lottie Fry and Charlotte Dujardin is amazing. They both inspire me on a daily basis. They are incredible role models, and it is incredible being sat next to them. But I do have every intention of beating them in the future!”

THE STARS OF THE FUTURE

24 British pairings faced the challenging 1.45m course in the Yeti Under 25 British Show Jumping Championship. The difficulty of the course became evident as the initial three combinations encountered issues with early faults. The fourth participant, Oliver Fletcher, son of Tina Fletcher – one of Britain’s leading female riders of recent decades – rode Hello William, owned by Lady Harris and Lady Kirkham, securing the first flawless performance of the competition. The second faultless round was delivered by Alexander McLean and Gino F, who wisely steadied their stride in the triple combination towards the finish, a section that posed challenges for many. The third clear round came from the winner of the 2023 Ella Popely Award, the Shane Breen-trained Lauren Caroline, riding Gait L.

By halfway – after Nicole Lockhead Anderson, with the small but mighty chestnut stallion I Am a Harley, and Jennifer Billington, with Flipper Darco Uk Z, both jumped clear rounds – it meant only those with a faultless first round score would progress to the jump-off. To take the total number of second-round contenders to eight, there were three more clears from Jessica Hewlett, followed by London International Horse Show Ambassador and the Show’s 2022 leading rider, Jodie Hall McAteer, as well as Antonia Platt and Marvin van de Waterhoeve – 2023’s Royal Windsor Horse Show Under 25 Grand Prix winners.

The eight-fence jump-off had the audience gripped to their seats, with the young riders giving their all to win. The number of strides between the penultimate and last fence proved to be the differentiating factor in overall time. Jennifer Billington and Flipper Darco Uk Z led from the outset, being the only clear with the next to follow all having four faults – often, including the likes of Oliver Fletcher, heartbreakingly at the last fence. The only other clear round came from Scotsman Alexander McLean and the meticulously careful Gino F, who, building on their intelligently crafted first round, jumped fence one on an angle, taking out one stride to the second fence, resulting in them becoming champions.

Speaking on his win, McLean said: “I am over the Moon. I didn’t think we were going to be anywhere near fast enough, but we battled hard and performed under the pressure. I’m so proud of Gino; he has done so much for me over the last two years and is the horse of a lifetime. The atmosphere at the London International Horse Show is fantastic; it’s my second time competing here and I love this show – it’s one of the best shows in Britain by far, with a great Christmas feel to it.”

STUNNING SHOWING TO START THE NEW SERIES IN THE NEW HORIZON PLASTICS LONDON ARENA
Written by Nicola Jane Swinney

It is appropriate that the Showing programme for the London International Horse Show began with the Rising Stars sections — looking forward to the New Year with some names to watch.

Sections include Hunters and Cobs, and there was plenty to like. Sarah Moreland, who won the opening class for Small and Lightweight Hunter Types, was quite overcome, kissing her beloved horse before pulling herself together to comment, admitting she was “quite emotional.”

Coulthard, a bay gelding bred in Aberdeenshire, means everything to Sarah, not least because when buying him four years ago, she had to choose between him and a car.

“He is incredible,” she said. “He does everything. He also jumps so we are doing the Working Hunter class on Saturday.”

The judges, Robert Walker and Jenny Banks, clearly agreed with Sarah’s opinion of her splendid horse, awarding him the Rising Stars Hunter Type Championship over the Middleweight and Heavyweight winner, Eleanor Liddle riding Val Doidge’s Cu Chulainn Carrabawn Rebel. A former hunt horse, Bruce — which is much easier to say — has taken to showing with aplomb, although he hasn’t always been easy. Hunt horses are not used to standing still!

Relishing the atmosphere at the London venue, Carly Chapman and Frazer Foxes Covert headed the Rising Stars Heavyweight Cob class and claimed the Championship.

“It was a fantastic experience; the ring is absolutely great and he gave me a great spin in the go-round, so I’m really delighted,” said Carly. She was enthusiastic about the new venue at the ExCel, the New Horizon Plastics London Arena, saying the atmosphere was “really buzzy.”

The Maxi Cob class and reserve went to Alex George and his six-year-old Paulines Boy, who, he says, “has done very well for a young horse, very well behaved. He’s a good boy.”

The electric atmosphere at this centre is appreciated by riders, horses, and the public alike, and the showing classes over the next few days look set to end 2023 on a high note.

More information about The London International Horse Show can be found at www.londonhorseshow.com.

For more information, please contact: Niki McEwen / rEvolution / nmcewen@revolutionworld.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Revolution Sports, Show Jumping

Markel Jockeys Jumping Set for Spectacular Return to London International Horse Show

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The Markel Jockeys Jumping in aid of The Injured Jockeys Fund will be returning to The London International Horse Show for the first time since 2019, featuring some of the most prolific jockeys of Great Britain and Ireland. Back by popular demand, this competition sees jockeys attempt a show jumping course at the famous London Horse Show – often with hilarious results. The 2022 competition will be a girls versus boys format and takes place on the evening of Monday 19 December.

Heading the boys’ team will be 20-time champion National Hunt jockey Sir Anthony ‘AP’ McCoy, who will be seeking to reverse the 2019 result, in which the girls were victorious. From the world of Flat Racing will be Jim Crowley, who started his professional career over fences riding for the stable of show jumping legend Harvey Smith. Since his switch to the flat, Crowley has been crowned champion jockey and won many of the world’s most prestigious races, most recently the Group 1 Juddmonte International Stakes last week aboard Baaeed, currently the highest rated horse in the world.

They will be joined by 2021 champion National Hunt jockey Harry Skelton, son of Olympic double gold medallist Nick Skelton CBE. Skelton will be looking to reclaim the title he won in dramatic circumstances following a bridle malfunction in 2018. Skelton’s wife, Bridget Andrews, will be a pivotal part of the girls’ team, following a successful performance in the 2019 edition. Andrews, a Cheltenham Festival winner, will be seeking to make it a double over her husband, this time at the iconic ExCeL London.

Another husband-and-wife combination likely to go head-to-head at The London International Horse Show will be flat jockeys Tom Marquand and Hollie Doyle. Doyle will head to The London International Horse Show on the back of another record-breaking season, during which she claimed her first Classic win in the French Oaks, becoming the first British female jockey to win a Classic. Doyle holds the record for victories in a single season by a female rider in the UK and will be looking to add to her list of accomplishments in London. Marquand, also a Classic winner having won the St Leger Stakes in 2020, will add to the stellar list of jockeys taking part in the class, described by Clare Balding in 2019 as “the most extraordinary sporting event I’ve ever seen,” with more top-class participants to be announced in due course.

Looking ahead to the 2022 event, McCoy, President of the Injured Jockeys Fund, said: “At one of our previous appearances in the Markel Jockeys Jumping at The London International Horse Show, Olympic gold medallist Nick Skelton resorted to using a cable tie to fix the bridle on Harry’s horse, so let’s hope we are a bit more professional this time around!” He continued, “At our last appearance in 2019, we were beaten by the girls, so we’ll be putting that right this year. In all seriousness though, it’s for a great cause in the Injured Jockeys Fund – and we all love taking part.”

Juliet Redfern, Head of Equine Insurance at Markel, added: “Markel is delighted to be sponsoring this fabulous event, as a specialist equine insurer we are committed to supporting the wider equine industry through various charitable initiatives. We have supported this particular event for six years; it’s great fun, but more importantly provides crucial funds to the Injured Jockeys Fund, a wonderful charity that looks after its own so well.”

Taking place from 15 to 19 December at ExCeL London, The London International Horse Show hosts three FEI World Cup™ competitions in Dressage, Carriage Driving, and Show Jumping, attracting the world’s best equestrian athletes. Spectators can also look forward to entertainment from The Shetland Pony Grand National, Kennel Club Dog Agility, and two international displays, to be announced.

The Markel Jockeys Jumping in aid of the Injured Jockeys Fund will be part of the Show’s thrilling final session, which also includes the five-star London Grand Prix, featuring the finest international show jumping horse and rider combinations.

More information about The London International Horse Show, including how to buy tickets, can be found here.

The London International Horse Show
www.londonhorseshow.com
Niki McEwen / nmcewen@revolutionworld.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Competitions, Revolution Sports, Show Jumping

World’s Elite Riders Return to Eternal City for Rolex Gran Premio

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Geneva, 18 May 2022 – The world’s elite show jumpers will gather in the magnificent gardens of Villa Borghese from 26-29 May to contest the 89th edition of the CSIO Roma Piazza di Siena. Staged in the heart of the Italian capital, the five-day event will feature some of the world’s finest horse and rider combinations and culminate on the Sunday with the 5* Rolex Gran Premio.

The CSIO Roma Piazza di Siena is steeped in history and tradition, having first been staged at this beautiful venue in 1926. In 2018, the 18th century oval was re-grassed, returning it to its original splendour. The organizers have strived for continuous improvement, ensuring the event’s stature as one of the most revered in the equestrian calendar.

Switzerland’s World No. 2 Martin Fuchs will be aiming to emulate his uncle Markus Fuchs, who won the Grand Prix here in 2001. He will face stiff competition from compatriot Steve Guerdat, with whom Fuchs won team gold at the 2021 FEI European Championships. Both riders won Rolex Majors last year – at the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament and the CHI Geneva, respectively – and appreciate the horsemanship, precision, and refinement required to win in Rome.

Looking ahead to the show, Fuchs said: “The CSIO Roma Piazza Di Siena is always one of my favourite events of the year. It is so magical to compete in such an amazing setting right in the centre of the city. With it being a Rolex show, you know the standard will be high and that you will face the toughest competition in the world, which always pushes riders to perform at their best.”

Bertram Allen, part of the Rolex New Guard, will be striving to become the first Irishman in 13 years to win this prestigious Grand Prix, along with in-form Kevin Staut and Scott Brash, the only rider to have claimed the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.

Virginie Chevailler
Rolex SA
virginie.chevailler@rolex.com
+41 (0) 22 302 2619

Merrick Haydon
rEvolution
mhaydon@revolutionworld.com
+44 (0) 7748 186 833

Olympia, Revolution Sports

Santi Serra and Team of Arabians amongst Equine Stars at London International Horse Show

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The London International Horse Show, taking place from 16-20 December 2021 at ExCeL London, will welcome hundreds of horses for elite competitions, equestrian displays, and performances. As the only UK Show to host all three FEI World Cup Qualifiers in Dressage, Show Jumping, and Driving, the much-anticipated 2021 edition is set to provide a stellar five days of action.

Onsite rehearsals are already underway for the display acts, which will include a spectacular new routine from Spanish performer Santi Serra, alongside his dog and team of Arabian horses. His natural affinity to the animals, as he communicates with them through mind and body is evident throughout.

More information about The London International Horse Show, including how to buy tickets, can be found here.

For more information, please contact:
Gayle Jenkins / rEvolution / gjenkins@revolutionworld.com

Conferences, Olympia, Revolution Sports, Show Jumping

Ben Maher amongst World’s Best Show Jumpers Heading to London International Horse Show

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Great Britain’s Olympic individual champion, Ben Maher MBE, heads an illustrious list of international Show Jumping entries for the London International Horse Show 2021. The confirmed line-up will facilitate five days of world-class competition at ExCeL London from 16-20 December, adding to an already stellar schedule of competitive action and spectacular international displays.

Maher, currently ranked No. 8 in the world, will be seeking to crown an exceptional year with success at the London International, but will face stiff competition from the world’s best riders. His London 2012 Olympic gold medal-winning teammate Scott Brash MBE, also part of the GB team in Tokyo, will be hot on his heels, as the World No. 5 seeks to recapture the prestigious London International Horse Show Grand Prix title which he claimed in 2019.

Also representing Team GB in Tokyo were Harry Charles and Holly Smith, who will both head to ExCeL full of confidence following successful autumn campaigns, which included being part of the team to win the Challenge Cup at the FEI Nations Cup Final in Barcelona. Their teammates that day, Emily Moffit and John Whitaker, always a crowd favourite, will also line-up in London.

Guy Williams and Laura Renwick, notorious for their speed against the clock, will be sure to have the home crowd on their feet throughout the five days of action, as will William Funnell who will be looking to recreate the form which lead him to victory at the 2019 Show. Young rider Jack Whitaker, son of multiple London International Horse Show winner Michael, is also amongst the strong British contingent taking part.

Their international counterparts will be mounting a strong challenge, led by World No. 4, Switzerland’s Martin Fuchs, who will be looking to repeat his 2019 success, which saw him crowned champion of the London leg of the FEI Jumping World Cup. Compatriot Steve Guerdat, the current World No. 8, will be returning to the city where he was crowned individual Olympic champion in 2012, following an excellent year, which included being part of the Swiss 2021 European Championship gold medal-winning team alongside Fuchs.

The Irish riders, Denis Lynch, Shane Breen, and Michael Duffy, will be ones to watch and will be hoping the luck of the Irish is with them in London. From Austria will be Max Kühner, who will look to go one better than his second-place finish in the FEI Jumping World Cup at the 2019 Show, with Christian Ahlmann and Marcus Ehning from Germany bringing further quality to the distinguished line-up.

Belgium will be sending a strong team, including Niels Bruynseels, Gregory Wathelet, and Pieter Devos, as will France, led by World No. 11 Kevin Staut. Compatriot Mathieu Billot, fresh from an outstanding Puissance win at CSI4* Rouen, will be looking to make it a double when he takes on the famous Puissance wall on the opening night of The London International Horse Show.

Simon Brooks-Ward, Show Director, said: “We are very much looking forward to welcoming some of the world’s best show jumpers to our new home at ExCeL London. The facilities at the venue are second-to-none, setting the scene for an outstanding five days of competition, and we can’t wait for it to get going.”

More information about The London International Horse Show, including how to buy tickets, can be found here.

For more information, please contact:
Gayle Jenkins / rEvolution / gjenkins@revolutionworld.com