ROLEX CELEBRATES 30-YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH CSIO SPRUCE MEADOWS 'MASTERS'

Geneva, Switzerland, 2 September 2019 – One of the most prestigious events in the equestrian calendar, the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ will welcome the world’s top horse and rider combinations from 4–8 September. Staged in the foothills of the Alberta Rocky Mountains – a spectacular setting for five days of elite sport – the show reaches a thrilling finale on Sunday 8 September with the CP 'International', presented by Rolex.

For more than six decades, Rolex has been at the forefront of equestrianism, forging close relationships with the sport’s top global events and athletes. The 2019 edition of the Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ marks 30 years of partnership between the brand and this revered show, highlighting the perpetual commitment Rolex has made to equestrian sport.

Inaugurated in 2013, the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping is the most coveted prize in equestrianism. Thanks to his victory at CHIO Aachen in July – with three perfect clear rounds – Rolex Testimonee Kent Farrington will be the Rolex Grand Slam live contender at Spruce Meadows. One of the fastest riders in the world, the American will be aiming to deliver another breath-taking display for the Canadian crowd.

"I'm so excited to be riding at Spruce Meadows this year as the current live contender. It is an extremely tough competition that attracts the best riders from around the world," he said. "Rolex has added a new dimension to our sport by supporting the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. With the 30-year partnership between Rolex and the Spruce Meadows 'Masters' celebrated this year, it would be even more special to win."

ROLEX TESTIMONEES SET TO CONTEST

The American rider will be challenged by several other Rolex Testimonees also vying for success. Swiss riders Steve Guerdat and Martin Fuchs, respectively No. 1 and No. 4 in the world, have been in outstanding recent form, with Fuchs just crowned the 2019 European champion in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Both athletes have been displaying passion and precision in their riding, elements that are essential to achieve success in any of the four Majors.

Alongside these show jumping greats is Great Britain’s Scott Brash, no stranger to victory at this iconic venue. A winner in both 2015 and 2016, the former year saw him become the first and only rider in history to win the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. With the support of a fervent home crowd, Canada’s Eric Lamaze will be looking for his third title in Spruce Meadows, following triumphs in 2007 and 2011 at the CN International Grand Prix, the predecessor of what is now known as the CP ‘International’, presented by Rolex.

Travelling from Europe will be France’s Kevin Staut, team gold medallist at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games who will be eager to claim his first victory at the show.

PREVIOUS WINNERS

 

2018 *Sameh El Dahan (EGY), Suma’s Zorro

2017 *Philipp Weishaupt (GER), L.B. Convall

2016 *Scott Brash (GBR), Ursula XII

2015 *Scott Brash (GBR), Hello Sanctos

2014 *Ian Millar (CAN), Dixson

2013 Pieter Devos (BEL), Candy

2012 Olivier Philippaerts (BEL), H&M Cabrio Van De Heffinck

2011 Eric Lamaze (CAN), Hickstead

2010 Jeroen Dubbeldam (NED), Simon

2009 McLain Ward (USA), Sapphire

2008 Nick Skelton (GBR), Arko III

2007 Eric Lamaze (CAN), Hickstead
 

*Denotes CP ‘International’, presented by Rolex

(Names in bold denote Rolex equestrian Testimonee)

press release