Top level sport returns to Compiegne

The Grand Parc Equestrian Stadium, which has been completely refurbished and modernized, will host some of the world's top dressage riders from the 19th to the 22nd of May for the CDIO 5*, France's sole competition of this level. France, captained by Morgan Barbançon, who finished seventh in the World Cup final, sees the Nations Cup as a good opportunity to prepare for the World Championships in Herning (DAN, 6-14 August) and the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

The Grand Parc Equestrian Stadium is ready to receive the elite of the discipline for the 11th Compiègne Dressage Internationals, with a new arena in front of the grandstand, completely renewed surfaces with underground irrigation by infiltration, optimized reception structures, and a panoramic restaurant to watch classes in comfort. "The work done last year on our site, which has long been regarded as one of the top international equestrian infrastructures," stated Monique Marini, Chairperson of the Compiègne Equestrian Association, which organizes the event. "Everything has been thoroughly rethought and modernized to offer the greatest possible circumstances for horses, riders, and spectators, as well as a genuine commitment to integrate and conserve the environment."

The greatest in dressage, who have been loyal to Compiègne for many years, will be able to profit even more from the site's excellence. Patrik Kittel of Sweden, who won the Freestyle Grand Prix last year with Well Done de la Roche CMF, is always enthused about the tournament hosted in the Oise area of France. During his visit last year, he said, "Compiègne is amazingly well organized, and I'm always quite glad to be here." "There are terrific riders, top-notch judges, and ideal surfaces; everything necessary for great sport is present." It's always a fantastic line-up with the finest teams, and it's a great warm-up for the championships."

The International Dressage Championships are the first major competition of the year for several international teams as well as the French. "Compiègne is declared as a significant and mandatory event in the season for all riders," said Emmanuelle Schramm, the French Equestrian Federation's Deputy National Technical Director in charge of Dressage. "The timing is great; it serves as a nice warm-up for a wide number of countries ahead of big events, like the World Championships in Herning (DEN, 6-14 August), as well as the European Championships for young riders in July." As a result, it is a good time to think about the future. The French clan is said to be optimistic. "France offers a diverse and promising pool of talent, particularly among young horses that are making their mark on the world stage."

We can't wait to get to Compiègne. It's an event we like, and the organization of the Compiègne Equestrian Association is usually excellent. This competition is a true symbol of French brilliance; we've seen images of the new site and are looking forward to participating."

The Compiègne International Dressage Competition also gives young riders a taste of what it's like to compete at the highest level, as Julie Sofie Schmitz-Heine, a young German rider who was a surprise winner of the pony competition last year and is now ranked second in her category by the FEI, found out. The CDI 3*, CDI 2*, CDI U25 (under 25s), CDIJ (Juniors), CDIY (Young Riders), and CDI P (Ponies) competitions will showcase tomorrow's winners.

But, above and beyond the sporting aspect of the event, the Compiègne rendezvous is also a fantastic opportunity for people who love horses and dressage to get together and share their passion.

When competition ends on Sunday, May 22nd, Jean-François Pignon, invited by the City of Compiègne and its agglomeration, will officially inaugurate and celebrate the Grand Parc Equestrian Stadium's spectacular improvements. The internationally renowned artist will be presenting his display of horses in liberty, offering a rare and timeless moment as he demonstrates the complicity he shares with his stage partners.