CSIO Spruce Meadows 'Masters'
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PRESS RELEASE ROLEX CELEBRATES 30-YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH CSIO SPRUCE MEADOWS ‘MASTERS’ Geneva, Switzerland, 2 September 2019 – One of the most prestigious events in the equestrian calendar, the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ will welcome the world’s top horse and rider combinations from 4–8 September. Staged in the foothills of the Alberta Rocky Mountains – a spectacular setting for five days of elite sport – the show reaches a thrilling finale on Sunday 8 September with the CP ‘International’, presented by Rolex. For more than six decades, Rolex has been at the forefront of equestrianism, forging close relationships with the sport’s top international events and athletes. The 2019 edition of the Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ marks 30 years of partnership between the brand and this revered show, highlighting the perpetual commitment Rolex has made to equestrian sport. Inaugurated in 2013, the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping is the most coveted prize in equestrianism. Thanks to his victory at CHIO Aachen in July – with three perfect clear rounds – Rolex Testimonee Kent Farrington will be the Rolex Grand Slam live contender at Spruce Meadows. One of the fastest riders in the world, the American will be aiming to deliver another breath-taking display for the Canadian crowd. “I’m so excited to be riding at Spruce Meadows this year as the current live contender. It is an extremely tough competition that attracts the best riders from around the world,” he said. “Rolex has added a new dimension to our sport by supporting the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. With the 30-year partnership between Rolex and the Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ celebrated this year, it would be even more special to win.” ROLEX TESTIMONEES SET TO CONTEST The American rider will be challenged by several other Rolex Testimonees also vying for success. Swiss riders Steve Guerdat and Martin Fuchs, respectively No. 1 and No. 4 in the world, have been in outstanding recent form, with Fuchs just crowned the 2019 European champion in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Both athletes have been displaying passion and precision in their riding, elements that are essential to achieve success in any of the four Majors. Alongside these show jumping greats is Great Britain’s Scott Brash, no stranger to victory at this iconic venue. A winner in both 2015 and 2016, the former year saw him become the first and only rider in history to win the Rolex Grand Slam of Show 1/4 ROLEX CELEBRATES 30-YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH CSIO SPRUCE MEADOWS ‘MASTERS’ Jumping. With the support of a fervent home crowd, Canada’s Eric Lamaze will be looking for his third title in Spruce Meadows, following triumphs in 2007 and 2011 at the CN International Grand Prix, the predecessor of what is now known as the CP ‘International’, presented by Rolex. Travelling from Europe will be France’s Kevin Staut, team gold medallist at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games who will be eager to claim his first victory at the show. END OFFICIAL WEBSITE www.rolex.com ROLEX EQUESTRIANISM PRESS ROOM https://pressroom.rolex.com/en/sports- and-culture/partnership-activities/rolex-and- equestrianism-news.html MEDIA CONTACTS Rolex SA Virginie Chevailler [email protected] +41 22 302 26 19 rEvolution Merrick Haydon [email protected] +44 7748 186 833 2/4 ROLEX CELEBRATES 30-YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH CSIO SPRUCE MEADOWS ‘MASTERS’ ABOUT ROLEX An unrivalled reputation for quality and expertise Rolex, a Swiss watch manufacture headquartered in Geneva, is recognized the world over for its expertise and the quality of its products. Its Oyster Perpetual and Cellini watches, all certified as Superlative Chronometers for their precision, performance and reliability, are symbols of excellence, elegance and prestige. The word “Perpetual” is inscribed on every Rolex Oyster. But more than just a word on a dial, it is a philosophy that embodies the company’s vision and values. Hans Wilsdorf, the founder of the company, instilled a notion of perpetual excellence that would drive the company forward. This led Rolex to pioneer the development of the wristwatch and numerous major watchmaking innovations, such as the Oyster, the first waterproof wristwatch, launched in 1926, and the Perpetual rotor self-winding mechanism, invented in 1931. Rolex has registered over 500 patents in the course of its history. A truly integrated and independent manufacturing company, Rolex designs, develops and produces in-house the essential components of its watches, from the casting of the gold alloys to the machining, crafting, assembly and finishing of the movement, case, dial and bracelet. Furthermore, Rolex is actively involved in supporting the arts and culture, sport and exploration, as well as those who are devising solutions to preserve the planet. 3/4 ROLEX CELEBRATES 30-YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH CSIO SPRUCE MEADOWS ‘MASTERS’ PREVIOUS WINNERS 2018 *Sameh El Dahan (EGY), Suma’s Zorro 2017 *Philipp Weishaupt (GER), L.B. Convall 2016 *Scott Brash (GBR), Ursula XII 2015 *Scott Brash (GBR), Hello Sanctos 2014 *Ian Millar (CAN), Dixson 2013 Pieter Devos (BEL), Candy 2012 Olivier Philippaerts (BEL), H&M Cabrio Van De Heffinck 2011 Eric Lamaze (CAN), Hickstead 2010 Jeroen Dubbeldam (NED), Simon 2009 McLain Ward (USA), Sapphire 2008 Nick Skelton (GBR), Arko III 2007 Eric Lamaze (CAN), Hickstead *Denotes CP ‘International’, presented by Rolex (Names in bold denote Rolex equestrian Testimonee) 4/4.