The 2018 CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’

3 September 2018, Spruce Meadows, Canada – The CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’, one of the most revered and respected equestrian events in the world, will welcome the world’s best riders to Canada from 5-9 September 2018, as they compete for the most sought-after prize in equestrian sport, the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.

Immense and enthusiastic crowds are expected to welcome the competitors to Calgary for the third Major of the year. The second Major, CHIO Aachen, saw Germany’s Marcus Ehning claim the Rolex Grand Prix, with Rolex Testimonee Steve Guerdat close on his heels. The climax of the Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ will undoubtedly be the CP ‘International’, presented by Rolex, on Sunday 9 September, where the top-performing horse and rider pairs will compete to become the live contender of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.

In 2017 Spruce Meadows welcomed 87,000 supporters for the Grand Prix event, all eager to watch this elite competition unfold in the famous International Ring. In 2018, acclaimed designer Leopoldo Palacios (VEN) will once again deliver an incredible three-round course that is both technically challenging and innovative, promising to test horse and rider alike. “If they hope to win this thrilling competition, each pair will need to perform at their best, showing courage throughout,” Palacios affirmed. “Only the best will vie for a coveted spot in the second round, and a jump-off is never guaranteed in this event.” With participation from some of the top riders, the CP ‘International’, presented by Rolex promises to be as thrilling as ever.

THE ROLEX GRAND SLAM OF SHOW JUMPING
The Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping rewards any rider who manages to complete the ultimate challenge of winning three equestrian Majors in succession, and it is now widely regarded as the most prestigious contest in equestrian sport. In 2018 a new Major was added to the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. The Dutch Masters, situated in ‘s-Hertogenbosch, joined CHIO Aachen, the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ and CHI Geneva to become the fourth Major, thereby giving riders an additional opportunity to secure the ultimate prize.

Rolex Testimonee Scott Brash made history in 2015 by becoming the first and only competitor to date to have succeeded, highlighting the enormity of the challenge. Marcus Ehning will attempt to emulate the Scotsman’s feat by winning his second consecutive Major, the CP ‘International’, presented by Rolex, following his  spectacular win at CHIO Aachen. “All riders dream of this achievement and to win Spruce Meadows would be incredible,” Ehning said. “I am looking forward to taking this chance to continue onto the next chapter.”

Rolex Press Release