Plans for the layout of the Longines Global Champions Tour (GCT) in London have been released by organisers.
The Tour returns to London later this month (24-26 July) at the new venue of Syon Park.
And organisers have exclusively revealed an image of the site to Horse & Hound.
The stately home of the Duke of Northumberland is situated next to the River Thames and Kew Gardens, providing a stunning backdrop for the expected world-class field of showjumpers at the five-star show.
Last year’s three-day show was held at Horse Guards in the centre of the city with 2013’s action at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in East London. For 2015 the 11th leg of the 2015 circuit moves to the west of the city — the first time a showjumping event has taken place here.
Last year the London leg was won by Brit — and world number one showjumper — Scott Brash.
In 2013, the first time the tour was held in London, Scott’s teammate Ben Maher claimed the spoils. Riders compete for around £600,000 in prize money, with the grand prix taking place on Saturday 25 July.
“It’s great the Global Tour is bringing top international showjumping to London again this summer and I hope everyone will come and see us and enjoy the sport in this super location,” said world number one and reigning GCT champion Scott Brash.
As well as the five-star competitions on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, there will also be two-star amateur classes. An expanded shopping village is also planned on the 200-acre site.
GCT president Jan Tops added: “We are looking forward to being in London for the third year and delighted to be staging our 2015 event during our 10th anniversary year at the beautiful location of Syon Park.”
The tour continues in Estoril this weekend (9-11 July) and in Chantilly (17-19 July) before coming to the UK.
Luciana Diniz of Portugal currently heads the GCT rankings, above Scott Brash and Sweden’s Rolf-Göran Bengtsson.
Adult tickets for the show cost £51.84. Book tickets
Don’t miss the 30 July issue of H&H for the full report on the London GCT.
