The eleventh edition of the “Vincenzo Muccioli Challenge” CSI5* at San Patrignano, to be held on the weekend of July 20-22, once again is set to distinguish itself for its quality , both on a professional level and for the high level of the competitors involved. The event has in fact soundly placed itself among the elite of the world’s most important equestrian events. This fact can be attested to by the honors bestowed upon it like Best Outdoor Event by BCM International/L’annee Hippique .
The world’s top riders will be competing, like Germany’s Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum (ranked number 2 in the worldwide standings), her teammates Ludger Beerbaum (4th worldwide), Christian Ahlmann (5th) and Marcus Ehning (8th). Also present will be Albert Zoer from Holland (9th), England’s John Whitaker (winner of last year’s edition), Jos Lansink (World Champion at Aachen’s World Championships in 2006), Marco Kutscher (Team and Individual gold medals at the 2005 European Championship in 2005 and gold Olympic medalist at the 2000 Sydney games), and Dutch rider Jeroen Dubbeldam. Gregory Wathelet (17th in the worldwide ranking) , Belgian by birth but now riding on the Ukraine team, will be the newest star riding to win: he has had 13 victories and 8 placings in the last six months of international competition.
San Patrignano’s colors will not be missing from the starting line up. Jerry Smit, riding San Patrignano Nadir were named Italy’s Show Jumping Champions at Busto Arsizio last April.
Each day of the show will include three competitions beginning at 5pm, 7pm and 9pm respectively.
The courses are designed by Swiss duo Rolf Ludi and Heiner Fischer, already known for their work at Zurich’s CSI5*.
The past editions of San Patrignano’s CSI have seen the participation of 234 riders from 33 nations.
A note to our fellow journalists: the last day to register for press accreditation is Monday July 16th. No further requests will be accepted after the deadline.
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