Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping

The CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament will once again welcome the world’s best horse and rider combinations to Calgary, Canada for five days of intense show jumping competition from 6-10 September 2023. Based in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Spruce Meadows is considered to be one of North American’s premier equestrian venues. Spectators attending the show will  not only experience spectacular scenery but thrilling competition, alluring shopping, and inspiring entertainment.

The CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament will be the second Major to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, with celebrations beginning at CHIO Aachen in June, exactly 10 years after the first Major took place. Within this, the focal point of the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament, the CPKC ‘International’, presented by Rolex, the third Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major of 2023, will provide a fitting conclusion to five days of sporting excellence.

Aside from the world class show jumping on display, the Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament provides spectators with various different activities to keep everyone entertained. The beloved MARKT will be featuring again, providing a great opportunity to purchase everything from fine art to equine products. One can easily be enthralled and captivated whilst browsing the stalls of the 150 vendors attending.

Throughout the week, the Blacksmith World Championships will take place in the Behind Equi-Plex arena. The daily competitions are a brilliant opportunity to witness the great skill, precision and accuracy required through the categories of forge work, blade-smithing, and wielding. In addition, equine inspired demonstrations and live entertainment will take place daily, varying from a live tutorial held by Jonathan Field on the topic of Horsemanship, to demonstrations held by Canadian, Pia Formuller, on Grand Prix Dressage, and Vaulting demonstrated by the Diamond Willow Vaulting Club. Prepare to come away amazed and full of knowledge!

Furthermore, there will be opportunities throughout the week for members of the public to be able to visit members of The Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) Mounted Troop, The Musical Ride of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment and The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, both situated in the East and West Meadows.

Wednesday will see the start of the 5* jumping classes, with both the Cardel Homes Cup and the TELUS Cup being held in the spectacular International Ring, which has benefitted from an ungraded grandstand for the 2023 event. The TELUS Cup provides the first chance for riders to qualify for the prestigious CPKC ‘International’, presented by Rolex on the Sunday.

Friday celebrates once again the fans favourite: the WESTJEST Evening of the Horse. This spectacular performance will dazzle fans with appearances by the Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) and The Musical Ride of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, with the Tourmaline Oil Cup and ATCO Electric Six Bar providing top-class international show jumping. To add to the occasion, the skies of Calgary shall be illuminated by a crescendo of sound and colour, with live music and fireworks during the finale.

Saturday 9 September will be a showcase of passion and teamwork with the BMO Nations’ Cup. The team format competition will see the world’s best show jumpers come together to represent their countries, with eight nations going head to head over a possible two rounds of competition.

The CPKC ‘International’, presented by Rolex will take center stage in the International Ring on Sunday 10 September. It is considered as one of the sport’s toughest tests, requiring the greatest levels of precision, harmony and bravery from horse and rider. Course designer, Leopoldo Palacios, will undoubtedly create a brilliant challenge that will result in a captivating and gripping watch for the crowds attending the show. The competition is expected to be fierce, with numerous former Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major winners in the field, including last year’s triumphant Rolex Testimonee Daniel Deusser.