A touch of RIO 2016 could almost be felt in the air today as we launched the CICO3* - NC Dressage this morning and set off the first riders in the 4 classes on the demanding and technical XC course.

In the Nations Cup 3* Dressage has been on the schedule all day at the main Arena and it truly has been great day. Having the Olympic Games just around the corner we have had the opportunity to see top riders from for example Germany, Italy and Sweden with their potential Olympic horses put to the test.
For some riders the SHT2016 is the final test before the selection of national teams will be made. Having a possible ticket to RIO 2016 in sight surely put the temperature up for today’s Dressage and we enjoyed great rides and great horses in the arena. The main Arena being a hot spot in itself today with some 30 degrees and sun blazing on spectators, Ground Jury, volunteer´s, horses and riders.

Coming out on top after today’s dressage was the impressive Michael Jung, securing a 2nd place with his horse FischerRocana and 1st place with FischerTakinou, the latter one most likely going to RIO.

In 3rd place Ludwig Svennerstål and King Bob, a duo who made their best dressage results up to date, something that might put them in the hot spot for RIO!

Please check the results online for the full results for today’s event at our website!

And of course, what we all have been waiting for – the first horse and riders were launched at the XC course today!

It has been a massive day, launching as many as 4 classes onto the XC course with a staggering amount of 208 horses and riders on the starting line. TheXC courses overall have the trade mark of Marcin Konarski in being technical and demanding with many questions for the riders to present to their horses.

The new water fence proved to be challenge to several riders and not surprisingly the main location for many of the spectators. The course even though rather flat will test the stamina of both horses and riders as tropical weather continues.

We thought it interesting to get the riders view of the XC course so during the last days we have had the pleasure to interview some of our top riders in the field.

Michal Jung, Linda Algotsson, Ludwig Svennerstål, Pavel Warszawski, Jacek Gałczyński and Johan Lundin have given their take on some of the major challenges on the course – find their interviews on YouTube / SHT2016 or on the web site.

On the web you will also find maps pictures of all XC courses and live information in our social media channels.

Finally; A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to todays winner´s!!

INGRID KLIMKE (GER) - the winner of CIC1* ACTIVO-MED TROPHY
And KARIN DONCERS (BEL) – the winner of CIC2* Horse Jalapeno
JULIA ELZANOWSKA (POL) - the winner of CICJ1* DCU TROPHY

Until tomorrow - Don´t forget drink lots of water, bring both the umbrella and sun block.

We look forward to see you on the second day of XC tomorrow.