Set against the backdrop of a perfect blue sky, just over 200 horses step into the stunning top level sand arena for the first time, all watched over by the 59 classical statues of the Stadio dei Marmi. The scene is set for what looks to be an incredible Longines Global Champions Tour of Rome. Earlier today Jan Tops, President and Founder of the Longines Global Champions Tour, spoke of his first impressions of the stunning new arena: “I had a special feeling when I arrived. With new venues you cannot predict the set up always, particularly when there are so many natural elements to contend with. You can make beautiful constructions, but the natural beauty of what we have here is spectacular. This stadium is iconic, and Marco [Danese] and his team have done a great job with the infrastructure, it is extremely classy. "Besides the beauty of the setting, what is crucial is the conditions offered to the riders and horses, and their owners. The ground is perfect. It's a new arena, so we're able to make it the best and that is something very important for us.” Speaking further about the partnership between Longines Global Champions Tour and the hosts of the debut event in Rome, Jan said: "This event would not have been possible without the great partnership of the Italian Olympic Committee (Comitato Olimpico Nazionale Italiano, CONI) who manage the infrastructure and we are extremely appreciative of being able to compete in this unique facility. It is important to thank also the Italian Equestrian Federation who have been extremely supportive, and the city of Rome.” The importance for Rome of hosting the Longines Global Champions Tour and being part of the circuit’s prestigious international calendar is significant. Beautiful, inspirational Rome has been attracting visitors for over two millennia and continues to be one of the most exhilarating destinations in the world. One of the oldest continuously occupied cities in Europe, Rome’s historic heart contains iconic monuments and artistic masterpieces from the magnificent Colosseum and the Pantheon to the Sistine Chapel and the ruins of the Roman Forum. Visitors can take in Renaissance palazzos and Baroque fountains or simply stroll through beautiful piazzas and soak up the vibrancy of the city of La Dolce Vita. Director of CONI Services and Logistics, Diego Nepi spoke also of how the incredible arena has been transformed: "The Stadio de Marmi is like a beautiful lady who is usually busy with kids and children and smaller daily sports activities, however now has the occasion to dress up. And she matches this high level of glamour and beauty. The Longines Global Champions Tour of Rome is a great occasion to show just how beautiful the location is. On a daily basis it's not highlighted, but it's the right occasion to demonstrate the beauty and top level of the venue we have here.”
