The Dutch Masters, one of the four shows that makes up the sport’s ultimate prize, the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, returns from 7–10 March with a packed schedule of sport and entertainment. This iconic show, which was first staged in 1967, attracts the world’s finest horse and rider combinations to impressive Brabanthallen for four days of thrilling action, which is sure to impress and delight those who attend. In addition to top-class international show jumping and dressage competitions, the show hosts national competitions and has a huge array of shopping available. There are also plenty of entertainment options for children with influencer meet & greets, hobby horsing, and pony riding opportunities.
Action commences on Thursday in both the international and national arenas, with the sporting highlight of the day coming from the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Grand Prix presented by RS2 Dressage. With riders such as reigning individual World Champion Charlotte Fry, and the world’s most successful dressage rider, Isabell Werth in action, the competition is set to be fiercely fought. In the evening, crowds should expect to be thoroughly entertained as ‘The Dressage Masters’ takes centre stage. The evening will be opened by a spectacular musical performance from Patricia van Haastrecht, known for her appearances on The Voice Holland and Mamma Mia! This will swiftly be followed by a breathtaking display from Paralympic rider Sanne Voets, who will showcase her new Freestyle to Music routine. Next, fan-favourite dressage and show jumping riders swap roles. Dinja van Liere and Marieke van der Putten will take on the challenge of jumping, whilst Harrie Smolders and Maikel van der Vleuten will attempt to master the perfect piaffe. The evening will be concluded with a dressage masterclass from Dinja van Liere, Rieky Young, and Anky van Grunsven, and a spectacular performance from the 'Friesian Train'.
With eight classes taking place across the two areas, Friday promises to be action-packed. First up in Arena 2 is the KNHS Para Dressuur Trophy, which will see para-dressage riders competing in a Freestyle to Music competition. Friday also welcomes the start of the international show jumping classes with the highlight of the day, the 1.55m VDL Groep Prize, taking place later in the evening. Last year Dutch rider Willem Greve thrilled the home crowd with a spectacular victory, one he will be aiming to repeat.
The Dutch Masters will host the final Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of the concept, and on Saturday there will be a dedicated ceremony to recognise this special occasion. Fans can expect to learn more about the history of the initiative and witness some of the key highlights from the past 10 years. The celebration will be followed by the feature show jumping class of the day, the 1.50m Audi Prize. Earlier in the day the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Freestyle presented by WeLoad Energy Systems takes place, with riders hoping to secure points to qualify for the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final in early April.
All attention will be on one class on the final day of the show, the Rolex Grand Prix. This prestigious class is coveted by every show jumper and at 15.00 on Sunday, 40 of the world’s most elite horse and rider combinations will be attempting to be the definition of skill, harmony, and athleticism to claim the title. This year, German rider Richard Vogel will enter the arena as the current Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping live contender with the hope of continuing his quest to become only the second rider in history to achieve the ultimate prize.
Source: Press Release
