Jumping International de Saint-Lô 2024: an event not to be missed

schedule

05/10/2024

(c) Pixels Event

From October 24th to 27th, 2024, the Pôle Hippique in Saint-Lô will host the 26th edition of the Jumping International de Saint-Lô. A must-attend event for equestrian enthusiasts, this competition attracts world-class riders each year, offering spectators high-level competitions and unforgettable moments of excitement. Organized by Saint-Lô Cheval Organisation, the event has become a cornerstone of the Normandy equestrian calendar.

A prestigious competition

As Jean-Claude Heurtaux, president of Saint-Lô Cheval Organisation, emphasized, “From a sporting perspective, it is the most important competition in Normandy. Top riders participate to prepare for the CSI5* at Équita Lyon.” This year’s edition promises great excitement with four days of show jumping competitions across three levels: CSI4, CSI2, and CSI1. Among the most anticipated events are the “Ranking” classes, which influence riders’ global standings, and the prestigious 4 Grand Prix on Sunday.

An event for everyone

The event isn’t limited to the sport itself but also offers a variety of side activities. On Friday and Saturday evenings, the agency NASH and Cheval Normandie will host auctions for sport horses and a fair dedicated to foals. Local breeders will have the chance to showcase the excellence of Normandy’s equine heritage, making these evenings a valuable opportunity for those looking to invest in future champions.

Additionally, Saint-Lô Cheval Organisation is partnering with the “Les Poulains du Cœur” association for a charity auction, with proceeds going to the Paul Corteville centers, which train guide dogs for the visually impaired.

International stars

Over the years, the Jumping International de Saint-Lô has seen participation from top riders such as Henrik Von Eckermann, Steve Guerdat, Scott Brash, Marlon Modolo Zanotelli, and the Allen brothers, to name a few. French talent has been equally impressive, with stars like Julien Epaillard, Kevin Staut, and Pénélope Leprevost all gracing the Pôle Hippique arena.

In 2023, the CSI4* title went to Julien Anquetin riding Blood Diamond du Pont. Who will be the next to succeed this winning pair? After a memorable summer for French equestrian sport, with the team securing a bronze medal at the Olympic Games, riders are ready to return to the arena for this highly anticipated competition.

Saint-Lô and the Olympics: a strong connection

The link between the Jumping International de Saint-Lô and the Paris 2024 Olympics extends beyond the participation of top riders. The Pôle Hippique boasts a course maintained by Normandie Drainage, the same company responsible for the show jumping arenas at the Olympics. The course, designed by Grégory Bodo, has received global acclaim and was followed by millions of viewers this summer.

Gregory Bodo course designer al Jumping International de Saint-Lô 2024 (c) Pixels Event

“The Saint-Lô CSI is an event recognized throughout France. It’s excellent preparation for Equita Lyon, and I never miss it,” says Bodo, who will be the course designer for the fourth consecutive year.

An unmissable event

Access to the Jumping International de Saint-Lô will be by reservation, with a limited number of seats available at the Pôle Hippique. It is recommended to book in advance through the official event website, www.csi-saintlo.com. This year’s program is packed with must-see events, offering prestigious competitions every day. “Sunday is the busiest day, with the conclusion of the CSI** Grand Prix, but the other days also feature spectacular qualifying rounds,” Heurtaux adds.

As tradition dictates, entry will be free on the opening day, Thursday, October 24th, for licensed riders affiliated with a club in the Manche region, upon presentation of identification.