Special challenges in Estoril to test the skills of the highest ranked riders

With a big slate of Global Champions Tour riders selected to travel to the Olympic Games in London, the big names will be in action at the latest leg of the GCT series in Estoril, Portugal.

The top international riders spent yesterday evening settling in their horses at the exquisite show ground in the chic resort of Cascais. The arena has been given an immaculate new grass surface raising the quality of the ground for the equine stars who have travelled from all over Europe for the 5* event.

Star riders like Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum of Germany warmed up their horses yesterday evening. Meredith said: “I’m really looking forward to the show, it is always special to come here to Estoril.” Several riders were in the ring together taking advantage of the practice session and were allowed to wear casual gear as it was not a formal competition.

Leading Swiss rider Pius Schwizer said: “The arena looks good and the ground is good.”

Course designer Frank Rothenberger has promised to set some special challenges to test the skills of the highest ranked riders. So far this season each show has produced a different set of riders on the podium, but in Cannes and Monaco last month Edwina stretched her lead further still and is now 49 points ahead of her nearest rival and fellow German rider Marcus Ehning.

GCT Show Director Marco Danese said: “It is great to have such different riders on the podiums so far as it keeps the competition really exciting through the season. The arena here in Estoril is looking fantastic and I am sure it will be a great competition today and for the Grand Prix on Saturday.