IN REVIEW: Longines Tops International Arena Summer Festival 1
July 11, 2023The newly reimagined Longines Tops International Arena provided a state-of-the-art kick-off to the first weekend of world-class show jumping during Summer Festival 1.
Taking place from July 7-9, Longines Tops International Arena’s enhanced facilities delighted equine enthusiasts in and out of the ring. This weekend’s riders were the first to take the field on the venue’s new, 125m by 85m innovative grass arena, while Summer Festival 1’s enthusiastic spectators enjoyed dynamic live music performances, captivating art installations, and fun-for-all-ages carnival rides on the Longines Carousel.
Hosting an exciting international line-up featuring the world’s best riders and a diverse program of CSI4*, CSI2*, CSI1* and a CSIYH1* (6- and 7-year-old) classes, the stage was set for high-drama in Valkenswaard—and it didn’t disappoint.
On Friday, June 7, Ireland’s Denis Lynch claimed the top prize of the day in the CSI4* 1.50m Speed class. Aboard the 12-year-old Swedish Warmblood gelding Hunter, Lynch electrified the crowd, stopping the clock at 67.86 seconds just ahead of Max Kühner (AUT) & Eic Cooley Jump the Q on 68.17 seconds. The Netherlands’ Harrie Wiering & Harley took third.
Fresh off his win in the €1.5 million Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of Monaco, the current #2-ranked rider in the world, Julien Epaillard (FRA), was back on top in Saturday’s CSI4* 1.50m speed class with Dubai de Cedre. The 10-year-old chestnut mare by Baloubet de Rouet dashed through the timers nearly three full seconds ahead of Dutchman Johnny Pals on Curiano van Maarle Z. Meanwhile, Italy claimed third-place honors with Lorenzo de Luca and Don Vito.
Finally, on Sunday, June 9, the day belonged to Brazilian Olympian Marlon Modolo Zanotelli and Cornest, who could not be caught in the CSI4* Grand Prix. Despite an A-list roster that included the likes of World #1 Henrik von Eckermann (SWE), the pair’s speedy-yet-finessed round in the four-rider jump-off secured their victory. Just one second slower, Egyptian rider Abdel Saïd and Clown of Picobello Z were second; Edwina Tops-Alexander (AUS) and Corelli de Mies rounded out the podium.
The final day of Summer Festival 1 at Longines Tops International Arena ended once again after sunset, with a DJ-hosted pulsing nightlife event. This followed a day of vibrant entertainment including international themed celebrations, face painting, and other activities for the whole family.
The fun and action return to Longines Tops International Arena this week with the start of Summer Festival 2 (July 14-16).
