On Sunday morning anticipation was palpable in the air of the Aachen Soers Showground, as over 40,000 eager spectators prepared for the World Equestrian Festival’s pinnacle class, the Rolex Grand Prix. To add to the excitement of the day, America’s McLain Ward was hoping to achieve what has only been done once before in history, win the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, following his victories at CHI Geneva in December last year and The Dutch Masters in March.

Forty of the world’s best horse-and-rider combinations, who had qualified for the Rolex Grand Prix over the proceeding days, would tackle the Frank Rothenberger-designed course with the hope of adding their names to the exclusive and illustrious list of riders who have been crowned victors of the Rolex Grand Prix at CHIO Aachen, a venue which is often described as the Wimbledon of the equestrian world.

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.

Advertisement