The Longines CHI Classics Basel is another great equestrian event, more cozy than CHI Geneva and great views throughout the arena. Including an exciting line-up of events, one of my highlights was seeing for the first time the FEI Dressage World Cup which was presented by Les Trois Rois. It is actually the first year having a Dressage World Cup event in Basel, which welcomed top riders and horses to show their moves. The event is organised very well, entrance and parking very accessible. Once you entire the stadium, you can feel the equestrian vibe in the air. Great food and drinks are available through out the arena. Honestly a great event for all non-equestrian and equestrian fans. Really fun. :)
If you have never seen or heard of Dressage before, it is basically like dancing horses. It sound simple, but it is really magnificent to see the control and precision movements of these majestic animals in action. We were able to see several top riders, such as Isabell Werth, who has won the most Olympic medals of all equestrian athletes. The current world number 1 Dressage rider, Jessica von Bredow-Werndl, who won the event with two amazing performances. I definitely can say it was amazing.
To be honest, I am still not sure which discipline I prefer, but I have to be fair and admit they are very different. Dressage is elegant and refined, while Showjumping is action packed and thrilling. I think I am starting to get addicted. :)
Furthermore, for those of you who have never seen the Spanish Riding School in Vienna, there was a surprise waiting in Basel. I studied in Vienna but unfortunately never made it to a show, but was lucky and able to see them here in Switzerland. This is not all, there as little history made as well. It was the first time that 2 female riders rode the Pas de Deux, so 2 horses in mirror image, in the history of the riding school. So another great moment to see and to be a part of.
I can highly recommend a visit next year and will definitely go again.
By then I will have learned a lot more about horses. :)
