Tag Archives: Show Jumping

*Featured/Spotlights, Competitions, FEI, Jacksonville Winter Series, Kentucky Horse Shows, Kentucky Three-Day, Spruce Meadows, USEF, Wellington Classic Dressage, Winter Equestrian Festival, World Equestrian Games

Spotlight on the Best Equine Competition Venues

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I am lucky to live near a couple of great equine competition venues that aren’t listed below – Clay County Fairgrounds which shows my name on one of the photos I took at a show and Jacksonville Equestrian Center.

Table of Contents

Both venues are fairly new in the equine competition arena, but they have hosted upper-level competitions and associated riders. I have ridden at both venues in many Dressage and Hunter schooling shows and some rated shows in both disciplines.

I was able to be a show photographer representing my website, HorsesintheSouth.com, until I had some physical restrictions that made holding the camera and long-lens too hard. I really love photography – my second major attempt at college was in Photography and Design for a bit until I got married and pregnant with my first child. I had morning sickness so bad I had to drop out.

So, as you can imagine, I have a special appreciation for the electrifying atmosphere of equine competition venues. There’s something transformative about these places where the bond between a rider and their horse is put to the test, where every jump and gallop reverberates with years of dedicated training.

Horse competitions, steeped in tradition and modern sporting excellence, are not just about the spectacle; they embody the pinnacle of partnership between human and animal.

When looking at the factors that give rise to these venues being the best and in the limelight, these are:

  • Location,
  • facility quality,
  • historic significance,
  • attendee capacity,
  • and the caliber of the events hosted are what defines their rank.

These venues are more than just showgrounds; they are icons in the equestrian world, bringing together communities and setting the stage for legends to emerge. A testament to the equestrian spirit, whether hosting global championships or local shows, the best arenas have a way of elevating and celebrating the connection between spectators, riders, and their magnificent horses.

North America’s Premier Arenas

Picture the thrill of competition fused with state-of-the-art facilities; that’s what you find in North America’s premier equestrian venues. Two standouts,

Both of these North American venues host world-class events attracting riders from across the globe.

Kentucky Horse Park, in Lexington, isn’t just a venue; it’s an equestrian epicenter. Here, accommodations range from the Rolex Stadium to the charming, quieter Dressage Complex. Accessibility is a major draw, with ample space for trailers and an array of lodging options nearby.

Life-size statue of the 1973 U.S. Triple Crown winner Secretariat with jockey Ron Turcotte aboard being led by groom Eddie Sweat, sculpted by Jim Reno. Photo by Calstanhope - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0 of Secretariat, winner of the Triple Crown in 1973.
Life-size statue of the 1973 U.S. Triple Crown winner Secretariat with jockey Ron Turcotte aboard being led by groom Eddie Sweat, sculpted by Jim Reno. Photo by Calstanhope – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Kentucky Horse Park also contains the National Horse Center, headquarters for more than 30 national, regional and state equine organizations and associations.

I was lucky to go to the Kentucky Three-Day Event at the Kentucky Horse Park in 2009. I went with a couple friends in her travel trailer, so we only had to pay for the parking. We were at the edge of the horse park, close enough that we could walk to the venue. That was one of the best times of my life. I so wanted to ride the course!

I follow and we post articles about how Spruce Meadows in Calgary harmonizes top-tier competitions with stunning vistas. It hosts the ‘Masters’ Tournament, and the grounds are so expansive, walking the perimeter can take you most of an afternoon. It’s a facility where natural beauty and equestrian prowess converge.

"National" Award Ceremony at Spruce Meadows CC BY 2.5, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1716535
“National” Award Ceremony at Spruce Meadows CC BY 2.5

There are six major outdoor tournaments/competitions and eight indoor tournaments at Spruce Meadows annually. The indoor tournaments are known as the ‘Nakoda Series’ and are tailored for developing junior/amateur competitors. The outdoor tournaments start with the ‘Summer Series’ a five-week-long tour that comprises the following tournaments: beginning in June with the CSI ‘National’, the CSI ‘Continental’, the CSI ‘Pan American’, and then the CSI ‘North American’ in July. The outdoor season culminates in the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament in September.

In my southern Florida area, Wellington plays host to the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF). I can attest to its magnetic pull on the equestrian community every year. It’s not just about the sport; the networking, the lifestyle, and the sunny escape from colder climates make it UNIQUE.

Showjumper at the WEF - Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL. Photo by Rob Bowman.
Showjumper at the WEF – Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL. Photo by Rob Bowman.

These venues showcase the commendable balance of passion for equestrian sport with the practicalities of top-notch competition space. The very atmosphere encourages riders to perform at their best, while spectators get a taste of what top-tier equestrian sport is all about.

Europe’s Tradition-Rich Equestrian Stages

I can totally appreciate the history that is within European equestrian grounds. These venues are not just places where competitions are held; they are bastions of tradition and equestrian excellence.

A tournament that’s more like a big party: Every year, the riding world celebrates the CHIO World Equestrian Festival in Aachen. Experts call it the “Wimbledon of equestrian sport”: the “Concours Hippique International Officie” in Aachen , CHIO for short, is the largest and best-attended equestrian event in the world.

CHIO Aachen main stadium https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=39736404
CHIO Aachen Main Stadium, Germany by Grandslamjumping – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0

CHIO is revered for uniting history with state-of-the-art facilities, attracting global talent annually. The Aachen experience isn’t merely about witnessing stellar competition; it’s about feeling part of a legacy.

Britain’s amazing contribution of the All England Jumping Course at Hickstead, known widely as Hickstead, is an equestrian center in West Sussex, England, principally known for its showjumping. It hosts two international competitions, the Al Shira’aa British Jumping Derby meeting/competition and the Longines Royal International Horse Show. The course was the first permanent showground for equestrian sport in the country, opening in 1960. The first Hickstead Derby was held in 1961.

Hickstead is best known as the home of British showjumping, though its major fixtures also feature other disciplines such as showing, carriage driving, scurry driving, side-saddle and arena eventing. Beyond the iconic Derby Bank and nail-biting finishes, it’s the relentless commitment to the sport’s heritage that resonates with competitors and fans alike.

The Chantilly Racecourse in France, set against a backdrop of grandeur and royal history, is where the passion for horse racing is palpable. Hosting prestigious events like the Prix de Diane, Chantilly offers an enthralling atmosphere for connoisseurs of speed and strategy. A right-handed course, it was built with interlocking tracks.

A panoramic view of the Chantilly Racecourse at the 2013 Prix de Diane, in Chantilly, France. By Diliff - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=26718123
By Diliff – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0 A panoramic view of the Chantilly Racecourse at the 2013 Prix de Diane, in Chantilly, France.

The Prix de Diane, sometimes referred to as the French Oaks, is one of the most important and prestigious Group 1 horse races in France open to three-year-old thoroughbred fillies. The Chantilly was used as the venue for the racecourse scene in the 1985 James Bond film A View to a Kill, in which racehorses owned by villainous industrialist Max Zorin competed.

These European stalwarts aren’t just venues; they are chapters in the long narrative of equestrian sport. They honor the past while continually evolving to ensure a sublime spectacle every time the bugle calls to post.

Australasia’s Finest: Showcasing Showgrounds

The equestrian scene in Australasia is quite vibrant and exciting. The region boasts some of the most impressive venues that cater to an array of equestrian disciplines. Let me introduce you to a couple of the standout locations.

Take the Sydney International Equestrian Centre (SIEC), for example. This place isn’t just another showground; it’s a venue steeped in Olympic history. Built for the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, it’s continued to be a beacon for top-level competitions. The SIEC is located in Dharug country, Saxony Road, Horsley Park NSW. It has world-class facilities for cross country/eventing, dressage, and showjumping, holding a special place in the hearts of riders and spectators alike.

Ellerslie Racecourse in New Zealand is another remarkable spot. It’s not just a racetrack; it’s a centerpiece in New Zealand’s thoroughbred racing history. With its sprawling lawns and state-of-the-art facilities, Ellerslie hosts prestigious events that draw global attention, like the Auckland Cup Week.

Aerial view of the Ellerslie Racecourse By North Island Av - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
Aerial view of the Ellerslie Racecourse By North Island Av – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0

Now, the importance of technology and facilities cannot be understated. In the next section, I’ll cover the way innovations and amenities at these top-tier venues not only enhance the experience but sometimes even decide the outcomes of competitions.

Conclusion: Celebrating Modern Marvels of Equestrian Prestige

As our exploration of elite equine competition venues concludes, it becomes clear that the perfect venue offers more than just a stage for competition. It stands as a celebration of equestrian tradition, innovation, and the unbreakable bond between horse and rider.

Whether it’s the storied grounds of Aachen, the vibrant energy of Wellington, or the technological advancements seen in Sydney, these venues are a testament to the sport’s enduring appeal and its continuous evolution.

These venues not only elevate the competition experience for participants and spectators alike, but they also serve as pillars of the community by fostering economic growth, providing learning opportunities, and preserving equestrian culture.

The venues highlighted here are not just arenas – they’re vibrant, living entities that resonate with the heartbeats of every hoofbeat. For those who haven’t yet experienced the magic of these spaces, consider this an invitation to witness the pinnacle of equine sportsmanship and camaraderie.

I encourage you to visit these venues, absorb their unique atmospheres, and perhaps even dream of one day crossing their distinguished finish lines. Remember, each venue carries its narrative in the world of equine sports, and attending an event could very well be your opportunity to become part of that legacy.

What equestrian venues have you visited? What are your favorites? Have you competed in any of them or others? Please comment below to assist others and me in making sure all great venues are explored here.

Competitions, Show Jumping

New Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Live Contender, CHIO Aachen

Andre Thieme riding DSP Chakaria ©Rolex/Lindsay Brock

Geneva, 8 July 2024 – The Rolex Grand Prix at the CHIO Aachen was won by André Thieme from Germany riding DSP Chakaria, ahead of McLain Ward and Richard Vogel in second and third, respectively.

The Rolex Grand Prix at the CHIO Aachen is known for requiring extraordinary levels of precision, athleticism, and courage to meet the challenge presented over three rounds at the famous venue, qualities which Thieme demonstrated in abundance.

Of the 40 starters, the top 18 went through to a second round, with just four jumping double clear to progress to the final jump-off. America’s McLain Ward set the pace as the first to go in the jump-off, setting an impressive target with a clear round in a time of 41.02 seconds. Next into the imposing Aachen arena, Martin Fuchs – a three-time former Major winner – with his talented grey gelding Leone Jei, finished on a score of four faults to put him into eventual fourth place. Thieme followed as third to go, with a stunning performance of speed and accuracy, putting the pressure on his German compatriot, Richard Vogel, as the last remaining rider able to take the victory. Despite a faster time, Vogel accrued four faults at the final fence, leaving Thieme to claim his first Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major.

The CHIO Aachen is one of the four equestrian Majors – alongside The Dutch Masters, the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament, and the CHI Geneva – that make up the sport’s ultimate prize, the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, which rewards the rider who wins, consecutively, the Grand Prix at three of the sport’s most illustrious events. Thieme will now head to the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament as the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping live contender.

The highlights film can be seen here:

Victoria Carles
Rolex SA
victoria.carles@rolex.com

Merrick Haydon
rEvolution
mhaydon@revolutionworld.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Competitions, Show Jumping

André Thieme Wins Rolex Grand Prix at CHIO Aachen

Photo: Rolex Grand Slam / Ashley Neuhof

The second Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major of the calendar year concluded with a yet another sensational Rolex Grand Prix in front of a capacity crowd of 45,000 people at the CHIO Aachen. This year marked a number of momentous anniversaries for the iconic equestrian venue, as they not only celebrated 100 years of history, but also 25 years with Rolex as the Main Sponsor.

Forty of the world’s best horse and rider combinations, who had qualified for the Rolex Grand Prix over the proceeding days, tackled the Frank Rothenberger-designed course with the hope of adding their names to the coveted list of riders who have been crowned victors of the Rolex Grand Prix at the CHIO Aachen, a venue which is often described as the Wimbledon of the equestrian world. Interestingly, six of the last 10 riders to have won the Rolex Grand Prix have been German, and with over a quarter of the riders representing the home nation, crowds were hoping for yet another German victory.

Held over two rounds, with a jump-off if riders are tied on penalties, the Rolex Grand Prix is a true test of endurance, scope, and talent that requires the highest level of harmony and trust between the horse and rider.

Third to enter the arena, Argentina’s José María Larocca set the standard early with a smooth clear, as did the next rider to take on the expertly designed course, the Rolex Grand Prix reigning champion, Germany’s Marcus Ehning, much to the delight of the home crowd. The current live contender of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, Willem Greve, riding the mount with which he won the Rolex Grand Prix at The Dutch Masters, was hoping to do what only two riders have achieved – to win two Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Majors in row. He was, however, unable to repeat his form from The Netherlands.

With the 18 top riders from the opening round proceeding into the next round, those who could produce a fast-four faults would stay in contention for one of the sport’s most coveted prizes. In total only 9 riders jumped clear in the first round, including Italy’s Lorenzo de Luca, three-time Slam winner Martin Fuchs, and home-favourite Richard Vogel, winner of the Rolex Grand Prix at the CHI Geneva in December.

Starting in reverse order based on the results from the first round, it was tenth to go, American rider McLain Ward, who jumped the first double clear of the class and put pressure on the remaining eight riders in the second round. Out of those riders, only Switzerland’s Martin Fuchs, Germany’s André Thieme – the individual 2021 FEI Jumping European Champion – and World No. 10 Richard Vogel joined the American as those who would proceed to the jump-off.

Anticipation was heavy in the air in the Aachen Soers arena as McLain Ward cantered into the packed stadium as first in the jump-off. The two-time Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major winner flew around the shortened course clear in a time of 41.02 seconds. Fuchs took almost two seconds off the American’s time; however, it was not meant to be as the penultimate fence fell. The crowds exploded with cheers as Thieme then took the lead in a time of 39.77 seconds, with just one left to go. It looked like last to go, Vogel, would claim his second Major as he crossed the line over one second faster than his compatriot, but it was heartbreak for the young German as the final Rolex vertical fell, leaving Thieme to take the victory.

Speaking on his win, the German commented: “It is every rider’s dream to win the Rolex Grand Prix at the CHIO Aachen, and to have my name on that list, especially as a German, it is incredible. Two years ago, I won the Nations’ Cup here with the team, and that was a lifetime dream, and now this – I think I should retire from competing here at the CHIO Aachen; it does not get better than this. The atmosphere and crowds are unmatched – there is nothing that can compare.”

Speaking on his jump-off, Thieme continued: “I did more strides from fences one to two – I know my horse does not have the biggest stride, but she is very quick on the ground, so I was able to do a very tight turn to the penultimate oxer, and then to the final fence I took the risk – my horse [DSP Chakaria] is a freak; she is incredible!”

© 2024 Rolex – Rolex Grand Slam

Competitions, Show Jumping

Vogel Victorious in Turkish Airlines – Prize of Europe

Photo: Rolex Grand Slam/Ashley Neuhof

Under the dazzling lights of the CHIO Aachen’s iconic main stadium, 45 of the world’s elite horse and rider show jumping combinations entered the arena with the hope of claiming Wednesday’s pinnacle class, the Turkish Airlines – Prize of Europe. The competition also provided the first chance for riders to secure their place in Sunday’s iconic Rolex Grand Prix.

As is often the case at the World Equestrian Festival, the field was truly star-studded and included the current Olympic and European individual Champions of Ben Maher and Steve Guerdat, as well as the current Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping live contender Willem Greve riding the 12-year-old stallion, Highway T.N. N.O.P., with whom he won the Rolex Grand Prix at The Dutch Masters earlier in the year.

First to jump clear around the challenging Frank Rothenberger-designed course – which consisted of 14 combinations – was Rene Ditter, but it was not meant to be for the German rider as he picked up two agonising time penalties.

However, fifth to canter into the historic arena, the in-form Christian Kukuk riding Just Be Gentle produced the first clear inside the time, much to the delight of the home crowd. Ireland’s Cian O’Connor quickly followed suit just two horses later to ensure that the passionate crowds at the CHIO Aachen would be treated to a jump-off. Clears came throughout the class with six additional German combinations making it through to the second round, including the 2023 victor of the Rolex Grand Prix at the CHI Geneva, Richard Vogel. Last year’s winner of this class, Yuri Masur, looked determined to make it back-to-back wins as he produced a faultless round with QH Alfons Santo Antonio, as did the 2022 winner America’s McLain Ward.

Of the initial 45 riders, 12 proceeded to the jump-off and with numerous fast riders in the class, it was set be an exciting one. Riders returned to the arena in reverse order of merit, meaning that Belgium’s Thibeau Spits was first to face the shortened course. The young Belgian rider did not quite have the round he would have wanted as two fences fell. Second into the jump-off, Christian Kukuk, set the standard for the remaining riders with a clear in the time of 48.48 seconds, a time that was quickly usurped by his compatriot Patrick Stühlmeyer.

America’s McLain Ward had the crowd on the edge of their seats as he flew around the course with the 16-year-old mare Callas and took the lead by over two seconds – a time that looked hard to beat. However, next to go, the three-time Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major winner, Guerdat, soon proved it was possible, but heartbreak came when he had the penultimate fence down.

The German crowds then came alive as Richard Vogel and Cepano Baloubet flew around the course in 42.44 seconds to sit in provisional first place. None of the three remaining combinations could match the speed and accuracy of Vogel, meaning that he not only claimed his first Turkish Airlines – Prize of Europe, but his second 5* victory of the day.

Speaking on his victory, the German rider stated: “My horse [Cepano Baloubet] jumped amazingly tonight, and he feels in great shape – he was really fighting for me today. The atmosphere was incredible – with the floodlights and all of the spectators, there is no other feeling quite like jumping here. It has been a dream start to the week!”

© 2024 Rolex – Rolex Grand Slam

Competitions, Show Jumping

Inside the Rolex Grand Slam: Interview with Willem Greve and More

Photo: Rolex Grand Slam/Thomas Lovelock

Interview with Willem Greve

Congratulations! You are the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping live contender. How are you feeling ahead of CHIO Aachen?

It is an honour to be on the list of riders who have won a Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major. It is incredible to ride at the CHIO Aachen, and it would be a dream come true to win there. Of course, there is more pressure and more eyes on us now being the live contender, having won the Rolex Grand Prix at The Dutch Masters, but I am trying to just focus on my horses and keep everything the same as before.

Reflecting on your win in the Rolex Grand Prix at The Dutch Masters, how special was this victory to you?

At the time I didn’t notice it because you are so focused on your horse and the moment. It was a very emotional win! The crowd was incredible, and the atmosphere was sensational…

Read more here.

Rider Watch – CHIO Aachen 2024

Similarly to how the tennis Grand Slam calendar moves surfaces from clay to grass, so too does the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping – from the indoor arenas of the CHI Geneva and The Dutch Masters to the awe-inspiring grass arena at the CHIO Aachen, the next Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major. The show, which often draws comparisons with The Championships, Wimbledon, attracts the finest horse and rider combinations from across the globe – all with the same hope of claiming the prestigious final class, the Rolex Grand Prix.

Dutch rider Willem Greve goes to the CHIO Aachen as the live contender of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. Greve made history in March when he became not only the first Dutch rider to win the Rolex Grand Prix [during the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping era] at The Dutch Masters, but also the first Dutch rider to win a Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major. Partnered by the sensational stallion Highway T.N. N.O.P, Greve set the home crowd alight as last to go in the jump-off…

Read more here.

Highlights – CHIO Aachen 2024

From 28 June to 7 July, the CHIO Aachen will welcome the world’s top horse and rider combinations to the iconic Aachen Soers showground for the hundredth time. Since welcoming riders and carriage drivers for the first time in 1924, the CHIO Aachen has been a cornerstone of equestrian sport, and this year’s event promises to be a remarkable tribute to a century of equestrian excellence. The World Equestrian Festival at the CHIO Aachen will showcase five thrilling disciplines: show jumping, dressage, eventing, driving, and vaulting. An electrifying atmosphere is guaranteed as 360,000 spectators will gather over 10 days to witness a new chapter of sporting history unfold.

Following the iconic Opening Ceremony on Tuesday 2 July, Wednesday 3 July will see the start of the 5* show jumping at the CHIO Aachen. The Turkish Airlines-Prize of Europe, held in the evening under floodlights, offers the first opportunity for riders to qualify for the show’s pinnacle class, the Rolex Grand Prix. The excitement will continue the next evening with the Mercedes-Benz Nations’ Cup…

Read more here.

© 2024 Rolex – Rolex Grand Slam

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

Competitions, FEI, Show Jumping

Swiss Set for Strong Challenge at St Gallen

Martin Fuchs and Leone Jei clinched victory for Switzerland in a thrilling two-way jump-off against Brazil at CSIO St Gallen (SUI) in 2023. (FEI/Martin Dokupil)

They’ve had it all their own way at the last two editions of CSIO St Gallen, but Team Switzerland faces a mighty task in their quest to make it a hat-trick of victories on home ground, when the third leg of the brand new Longines League of Nations™ 2024 gets underway on 31 May 2024.

The ten competing countries are battling it out for the eight places on offer at the inaugural Final, which will take place at the Real Club de Polo in Barcelona, Spain on 6 October. After two thrilling legs so far, the leaderboard is headed by Ireland, winners in Ocala, USA in March, while Team Germany, who came out on top in the opening leg of the iconic new series at Abu Dhabi, UAE in February, lies close behind in second place.

Switzerland lies third ahead of USA, Brazil, Sweden, and The Netherlands. Already battling it out for that eighth and last place with only two more legs to go are Belgium, France, and Great Britain. Ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, every nation wants to look strong, so it’s no surprise that amongst the athletes signed up for the penultimate qualifier are the top three in the world rankings who, between them, hold the individual Olympic, World, and European titles.

Selection

The British selection includes Tokyo Olympic gold medallist Ben Maher, along with Harry Charles, Tim Gredley, and Robert Whitaker, and they know they have a job to do to move their country off that bottom end of the LLN leaderboard.

The same applies to Team Belgium, and Chef d’Equipe Peter Weinberg sends out a sharp side with Abdel Saïd joined by rising star Gilles Thomas and the experienced duo of Koen Vereecke and Gregory Wathelet, the latter a member of the bronze-medal-winning team in Tokyo three years ago.

The French are also sharing that eighth and last place with just 85 points racked up to date, and Henk Nooren has chosen Francois Xavier Boudant, Marc Dilasser, Aurelien Leroy, and Olivier Perreau to buoy up their chances at the next leg.

The Dutch need to add to the 115 points they have collected in order to stay well out of the danger zone, and with Willem Greve, Harrie Smolders, and the Van Asten brothers Leopold and Mathijs on call-up this time around, they look well set to do just that.

Just five points ahead of The Netherlands is Team Sweden, who finished third in the opening leg of the series but ninth last time out. World number one, double World Champion, and the man who collected his second successive Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ title in thrilling fashion in Riyadh, KSA last month, Henrik von Eckermann, was on both of those teams, jumping double-clear in Abu Dhabi but picking up eight faults in Ocala where Henrik Ankarcrona’s side failed to make it into the second round. They’ll be expected to be back to their normal level of brilliance in St Gallen where von Eckermann will be joined by Wilma Hellström, Amanda Landeblad, and Fredrik Spetz.

Fifth

In fifth place on the leaderboard is Team Brazil, and although St Gallen is known as something of a fairytale town in Swiss folklore, it was no fairytale for the South American visitors last year when they lost out to the hosts in a two-way third-round jump-off against the clock. They’ll be wanting to put that to rights this time out, and with Luciana Diniz, Santiago Lambre, Yuri Mansur, and Pedro Veniss saddling up, they look ready to present powerful opposition to the rest of the field.

The Swiss are taking no chances either. It was Martin Fuchs who clinched that 2023 victory, all the sweeter for the fact that it was two-in-a-row after a drought of 22 years for the host nation. The world number five rider is backed up by 2012 Olympic gold medallist, multiple World Cup champion, and reigning individual European champion Steve Guerdat once again, along with Alain Jufer and the rock-solid Pius Schwizer. The home team won’t be giving anything away easily, that’s for sure.

They lie a comfortable third on the leaderboard, with a 15-point advantage over the fourth-placed Americans who carry 135 points. Robert Ridland’s US team consists of Natalie Dean, Katie Dinan, Callie Schott, and Spencer Smith, who will be aiming to improve on that running tally.

At the top

At the top of the League table, the Irish have a 30-point advantage over Germany in second place, but German team manager Otto Becker is bringing out more of his big guns in an effort to alter that. His very much on-form foursome of Hans-Dieter Dreher, Andre Thieme, Richard Vogel, and Jana Wargers are a formidable force, and Michael Blake’s Irish side of Bertram Allen, Denis Lynch, Mark McAuley, and Cian O’Connor will probably need to be at their very best to keep them from moving ahead before the final qualifier in Rotterdam in The Netherlands at the end of June.

Of course, the format for the newly minted Longines League of Nations™ adds a whole new level of pressure for every team, with only the top eight sides and only three of the four team members returning to decide the result in the second round.

by Louise Parkes

press@fei.org
www.fei.org

*Featured/Spotlights, Competitions, Dressage, Royal Windsor Horse Show, Show Jumping

Faurie’s Fairytale Freestyle at Royal Windsor Horse Show

Emile Faurie (GBR) and Bellevue @RoyalWindsorHorseShow/Peter Nixon

Dressage once again was at the forefront of the action on day two of Royal Windsor Horse Show. Competitors pulled out all the stops with high-energy performances accompanied by complex musical productions in The Defender CSI4* FEI Dressage Freestyle in the Castle Arena.

Elsewhere across the private grounds of Windsor Castle, Showing got underway with Championships taking place for the Working Hunter sponsored by Irish Horse Board, the Coloured divisions sponsored by the Leeman Family, and the RoR Tattersalls Thoroughbred Ridden Show Horse supported by Royal Windsor Racecourse.

National Showjumping saw some of the country’s best up-and-coming horses take centre stage in The Walwyn Novice Jumping Championship, sponsored by Martin Collins Enterprises, with The LeMieux National 1.40m Open Jumping Competition providing a thrilling competition for spectators.

BELLE(VUE) OF THE BALL

The pinnacle class of the day, The Defender CSI4* FEI Dressage Freestyle, took place with 10 combinations competing for the highly sought-after prize. Ever-popular, the Freestyle sees horses and riders competing to their own specifically chosen music track and floorplan, matched to a set number of the complex moves required at this level of Dressage. Unlike in the Grand Prix, judges provide two sets of marks, one for the technical execution and the other for artistic impression.

First into the Castle Arena was Britain’s Lisa Marriott, who was making her debut at the Show. Set to the iconic soundtrack from ‘The Holiday’, Marriott impressed judges to set the standard with a total score of 67.160%. Compatriot Nicholas Kröncke and Flanell – competing in only their second Freestyle test together – then took the lead with 71.100%. The German-born rider, who took a 17-year hiatus from top level sport and returned in 2021, changed nationalities at the beginning of this year to compete for Great Britain, having previously ridden successfully as part of the German Youth teams.

Australia’s Championship combination of Jayden Brown and Willingapark Quincy B could not quite match the personal best of 75.485% they set at CDI3* Hartpury last summer. However, their score of 74.415% was enough to put them into the top spot at this stage of the competition. Two further riders took to the iconic arena prior to the midway break – China’s Sarah Rao and Italy’s Nathalie Wahlund – however, neither could reach the score set by Brown.

After an interval, it was the second placed combination’s turn to canter down the centre line. Emile Faurie once again proved why he has represented Britain at Championship level so many times as he – much to the delight of the crowd – set the new standard of 76.280% with Bellevue. None of the remaining combinations, which included Gareth Hughes and Classic Goldstrike, could produce a test which matched the harmony and precision set by Faurie. Faurie’s victory in The Defender CDI4* FEI Dressage Freestyle capped a fabulous competition at Windsor, with Britain’s Lewis Carrier taking second and Singapore’s Caroline Chew completing the top three.

Following his win, Emile Faurie said: “It’s been a weird build-up to the Show because she [Bellevue] threw a splint six weeks ago, but she’s such an incredible, honest mare and she came and did her thing. Unfortunately, at the beginning of last year, I was diagnosed with cancer, so that led to significant time off and some serious operations, but I luckily had my great team and my rider Tom behind me to be able to get back on and go on to win today.”

Faurie went on to say: “I kept the programme quite simple as this was only Bellevue’s third ever Freestyle, but the music was composed by Tom Hunt especially; it’s an original score for us as a pairing.”

The victor closed with: “It’s always special to be here at Royal Windsor; it has that little extra magic – you don’t find that backdrop of the Castle anywhere else in the world. The English are such a ‘horse nation’ so the atmosphere from the crowd is amazing; you can feel their energy, and even when they’re silent you can hear them willing every rider on.”

HERE COME THE GIRLS

National Show Jumping got under way with the Redpost Equestrian Senior Foxhunter – First Round, sponsored by Martin Collins Enterprises. Of the 98 starters, it was Sally Goding with the seven-year-old mare Red Head who triumphed with a double clear in a time of 31.81, almost a second faster than Natasha Hewitt in second. Goding is a previous winner at Royal Windsor Horse Show, having also won The LeMieux 1.40m Open Jumping Competition in both 2022 and 2023. The 12 highest placed six-year-olds from this class qualified for The Walwyn Novice Jumping Championship, sponsored by Martin Collins Enterprises. Of these, five combinations made it through to the jump-off against the clock, with the Billy Stud’s Billy At Last coming out on top under Lucy Townley, and Nicole Lockhead Anderson coming in second by just a third of a second.

It was a successful day for Lockhead Anderson, who went one better in the next class to claim The LeMieux National 1.40m Open Jumping Competition with the eight-year-old gelding Mecoblue PS, by Messenger. The ‘Single Phase’ competition is always hotly contested, and this year included notable entries from World No. 2 Ben Maher and Royal Windsor Horse Show Ambassador Joseph Stockdale, who placed seventh and eighth, respectively.

Lockhead Anderson stated: “It’s great to be here riding in the beautiful Castle Arena in the LeMieux National 1.40m Open Jumping Competition at Royal Windsor Horse Show, we’re very lucky in Britain to have a show like it, and winning makes it even more special!”

Talking about her horse, Lockhead Anderson said: “Mecoblue PS is fantastic; he just gets better and better.” She went on to say: “He is very green but finds jumping the big jumps easy – he’s definitely one for the future – he gives you the feeling he could be here in the 5* next year.”

The British rider closed by saying: “We ended up flying to the last fence; he has a huge stride and luckily he trusted me to go for it; it paid off because we only just beat Ronnie Jones by a second.”

HM THE KING TAKES THE CROWN

HM The King struck gold twice in the Showing at Royal Windsor Horse Show, courtesy of First Receiver.

His Majesty’s ex-racehorse First Receiver first strode to victory in the hugely popular RoR (Retraining of Racehorses) Tattersalls Thoroughbred In-Hand Show Series Qualifier (Flat) supported by Royal Windsor Racecourse for the second year running, and then captured the overall Championship, exhibited by Chris Hunnable. Not long afterwards, First Receiver changed modes to win the RoR Tattersalls Ridden Show Series Qualifier (Flat) supported by Royal Windsor Racecourse with Katie Jerram-Hunnable in the saddle. To Jerram-Hunnable’s amazement and delight, they went on to land that Championship too.

Essex-based Jerram-Hunnable has shown horses for the Royal Family for many years, and one of her major success stories came with Her Late Majesty The Queen’s ex-racehorse Barbers Shop, who took every title on the show circuit in his second career and even stood overall Supreme of Show here at Royal Windsor.

First Receiver, a seven-year-old bay gelding, joined Jerram-Hunnable three years ago, after Her Late Majesty The Queen was considering a replacement for Barbers Shop.

“Her Majesty asked me to go to Sandringham and give her an opinion on this one,” said Katie. “He was still entire then, but I thought he had enormous potential as a future riding horse — three weeks later he came to my yard and he hasn’t left since!”

Jerram-Hunnable said: “It’s always very special to win at Windsor, but to do so with a horse belonging to the reigning monarch is a moment to treasure and I was amazed to take the Ridden Championship against some very strong competition.”

As a five-year-old, First Receiver won the Novice RoR title at the Royal International Horse Show, and the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse Final at Horse of the Year Show.

“We put him away after Windsor last year, as we felt he would benefit from some time out,” added Jerram-Hunnable, who intends to show him in Novice Riding Horse ranks.

Courses for the popular Working Hunter classes proved as testing as ever, and after two absorbing competitions, the overall Working Hunter Championship sponsored by Irish Horse Board title in the Castle Arena went to first-time Royal Windsor winner, Lancashire-based Adele Hanson with her upstanding Heavyweight victor, 12-year-old Irish-bred The Top Drawer.

To find out more about Royal Windsor Horse Show, visit www.rwhs.co.uk.

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

*Featured/Spotlights, Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Simon McCarthy Speeds to Victory on Opening Day of ESP Spring III

Simon McCarthy & Gotcha © Sportfot

Ireland’s Simon McCarthy opened the second week of the 2024 ESP Spring Series, presented by Florida Coast Equipment, on Thursday with a win in the $32,000 Florida Coast Equipment CIS3* 1.45m on the grass derby field at Equestrian Village, home of the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival during the winter season.

For a field of 63 horses, Andy Christiansen Jr. (USA) set the two-phase course. McCarthy, 28, and Gotcha, owned by Rock Ridge Farms, topped the clock of the speed phase in 30.42 seconds, only fractions over the runner-up, Kelli Cruciotti-Vanderveen (USA) riding Forever SFN for owner Serenity Farm Show Stables, in 31.02 seconds. Third went to Grace Debney (GBR) riding Boheme de la Roque, two one-hundredths slower than Cruciotti-Vanderveen in 31.04 seconds for owner Temple Equestrian, LLC.

“I knew I needed to get through the first phase and then go for it,” said McCarthy. “In the last couple of lines there was a leave out, which I didn’t know if I was going to be able to do. When I was there, I kicked, closed my eyes, and hoped I got there. And she was right with me, so I think that’s what was the winning factor at the end.”

John French Dominates Professional Hunters

2023 USEF Equestrian of the Year, John French, was a force in the International Arena to highlight professional hunter competition on Thursday during week two of the 2024 ESP Spring Series. He piloted Royale AM to champion in the Greenberg Traurig 3’6”/3’9” Green Hunter division and Crooner Brimbelles Z to top position in the All Paws Animal Hospital High Performance/3’6” Performance Hunters.

French of Wellington, FL broke into the 90s with Royale AM, a 10-year-old Swedish Warmblood gelding by Lasandos, owned by Robinson Ridge, LLC. Together they scored three wins and third over fences and finished third in the under saddle among Green Hunters.

The reserve champion tri-color in the Greenberg Traurig 3’6”/3’9” Green Hunter division was awarded to Corino, owned by Victoria Chaconas. Jacob Pope of Columbia, MD piloted the gelding with a win in the under saddle highlighting their performances.

Later in the day, French went on to claim top call in the All Paws Animal Hospital High Performance/3’6” Performance Hunter riding Crooner Brimbelles Z, owned by Crooks Show Jumping. The nine-year-old Zangershiede gelding by Windows vh Costersveld scored two wins and two reserve finishes over fences as well as a second-place ribbon under saddle.

Wellington International
news@wellingtoninternational.com
www.wellingtoninternational.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