The Continental CSI5*/2*, presented by Rolex, September 1-4 launches two weeks of top international show jumping at Spruce Meadows. The All Alberta Ring was host to Thursday’s 2* competitions while the North American Ring featured the 5* competitors. Athletes compete Thursday and Friday hoping to qualify for the weekend competitions in their respective divisions.
Nayel Nassar (EGY) and Coronado win the Friends of the Meadows 1.55m
(© Spruce Meadows Media/Mike Sturk)
The first feature competition was the Friends of the Meadows 1.55m. Competitors took on the one-round track against the clock designed by FEI course designer Anthony D’Ambrosio (USA). No one could catch Egypt’s Nayel Nassar aboard Coronado who posted the fastest clear round in a time of 63.30s.
The Continental wraps with the Friends of the Meadows Grand Prix on Sunday, September 4.
Complete Continental results here.
Countdown to the Masters
Over the last four decades, riders from over 60 nations have come through the iconic Spruce Meadows Clock Tower to test their mettle. This year, seven out of the 10 top ranked show jumping riders in the world will arrive at Spruce Meadows for the Masters, September 7-11, including 2022 World Championship individual gold medalist Henrik Von Eckermann (SWE) and silver medalist Jerome Guery (BEL).
The courses presented to the athletes throughout the week will be designed by FEI course designer Leopoldo Palacios (VEN).
Opening for Friday’s WestJet Evening of the Horse are the Tourmaline Cup followed by the ATCO Electric Six Bar, a fan favourite. The night will conclude with a spectacular performance by Canadian CDI dressage riders Ryan Torkkeli and Pia Fortmuller under the lights followed by a musical performance by the Band Household Cavalry and a spectacular drone show.
Pia Fortmuller will provide dressage demos with Ryan Torkkeli. (SStickle photo)
Torkkeli and Fortmuller can also be seen on Thursday, September 8 and Sunday, September 11 prior to the start of the CP International, and they will be one of many demonstrations taking place throughout the week in the Equi-Plex and Riding Hall. Vaulting demonstrations by Diamond Willow Vaulting, Horsemanship 101, course designing and more are scheduled throughout the week.
Saturday features the BMO Nations’ Cup where eight squads, including the gold and silver medalists from the 2022 World Championships, Sweden and the Netherlands, will contest one of show jumping’s most coveted team titles. Prior to the BMO Nations’ Cup, fans will be treated to the Suncor Winning Round.
Sunday of the Masters is the highlight of the international show jumping calendar. A staggering $2,500,000 is up for grabs in the CP International, presented by Rolex, most prestigious grand prix in the sport and part of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.
After a historic performance in 2015 Scott Brash (GBR), who jumped to the Rolex Grand Slam victory and accomplished what many believed to be impossible, Brash (part of the bronze medal team at the 2022 World Championship) returns looking for his third win in the event. Last year’s winner, Steve Guerdat (SUI) and current Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping live contender, Gerrit Nieberg (GER), will also vie for the coveted victor’s title.
More Than Show Jumping
The Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ has something for everyone. In addition to top international show jumping, spectators and fans will be able to enjoy shopping with over 70 vendors and original fine art, equine-inspired demonstrations, FireFit Championships, live music, entertainment and pageantry throughout the week. The grounds will also be decorated with classic cars and carriages, fresh cut flowers from Holland and photo op spaces for all those Instagram-worthy moments.
The Horizon’s Pavilion will host a Gin Bar surrounded by original fine art while the Equi-Plex will feature a unique shopping experience. On Friday, September 9 the Equi-Plex will also be home to the wildly popular BMO Nations’ Cup Team Autograph Session from 1:30pm-2:30pm.
Visit the WestJet International Plaza and celebrate ATCO’s 75th Anniversary in their pavilion stocked with family-friendly activities including the Winds of Time Booth. You’ll find the TELUS Pavilion right next door where a donation to the Future is Friendly Foundation will get you this year’s TELUS Pony (stuffed animal).
Up in the Founders Plaza you’ll find more shopping and the Rolex Grand Slam Experience Booth. Check out historic memorabilia from Grand Slam Grand Prix winners, ride the CP International via virtual reality, or jump into the photo booth and make your own memories.
For more information and tickets, visit www.sprucemeadows.com.
Livestreaming access can be purchased here.
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