London magazine 2024 by Explose

*L’élégance est une attitude

JANE RICHARD

LONGINES MINI DOLCEVITA

LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR

LONDON

ROYAL HOSPITAL CHELSEA

16 - 18 AUGUST 2024

The LGCT of London is an exceptional event of high octane show jumping and a luxury social scene at the iconic venue of Royal Hospital Chelsea.

The stylish event is one of the jewels in the incredible Longines Global Champions Tour calendar attracting international guests and fans to enjoy equestrian excellence in the heart of London.

EDITORIAL COORDINATION

SARA TANGANELLI

TEXTS

OONAGH BLACKMAN, NINA FEDRIZZI, JEMMA DAVIES

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

CARLOTTA ANDREA BURACCHI BRESCIANI, FLOSS BISH-JONES

OFFICIAL PHOTOGRAPHERS

STEFANO GRASSO, FILIPPO GABUTTI, LJUBA BUZZOLA

DESIGN

WWW.EXPLOSE.NL

NICK VAN DE BOOGAARD

PUBLISHER

GLOBAL CHAMPIONS

LONGINES COLLECTION

SEASON CALENDAR 2024

LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR EXPLAINED

GCL EXPLAINED

GCL TEAMS 2024

DISCOVER LONDON

Jessica Springsteen & Don Juan van de Donkhoeve

WELCOME TO

THE 2024 SEASON

Step into the thrilling world of the 2024 Longines Global Champions Tour and GCL Season, spanning three continents, 14 countries, and 16 dazzling destinations. With a staggering prize pool, this season promises unparalleled show jumping, hospitality, and entertainment. Kicking off in Doha, Qatar, the global tour makes waves at iconic locations such as Miami Beach, Mexico City, Paris, and Cannes.

From Shangahi to London, this season boasts an electrifying lineup of events, featuring renowned cities like Madrid, Monaco, and the grand finale in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The Championship race accelerates at Stockholm, Valkenswaard, and Rome, showcasing precision, power, and elegance in a thrilling spectacle.

In its eighth year, the GCL team competition witnesses 14 top-tier teams competing with strategic precision, creating an intense atmosphere at every event. As the drama unfolds, GCTV provides live coverage, bringing fans closer to the action with expert commentary and exclusive backstage access. Get ready for a season of unparalleled sporting excitement in some of the most breathtaking across the globe.

MATTHIAS BRESCHAN

MEET LONGINES CEO

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Dear Equestrian Sports Enthusiasts,

On behalf of Longines, I would like to extend to you all a very warm welcome to the 2024 Longines Global Champions Tour in London. We promise you many memorable sports moments with breathtaking performances to be delivered at this eagerly awaited event.

As the Title Partner, Official Timekeeper and Official Watch of this prestigious event, we will continue to be a dedicated supporter of equestrian sports. This year again, we look forward to supporting the foremost riders vying for success in the 12th stage of the Longines Global Champions Tour and attending three days of enthralling competitions from 16th to 18th August 2024 in London.

On this very special occasion, we are proud to highlight the Official Watch of the event – a new Mini DolceVita model with exclusive double tour straps. With its discreet profile, classic styling, and aesthetic variations that are at once timely and timeless, this masterpiece exquisitely expresses, in equal parts, Longines’ quiet luxury and elegance.

We wish you a weekend full of wonderful sports moments and emotions at the 2024 Longines Global Champions Tour in London.

MEET

JAN TOPS

FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR AND GCL

I am delighted to welcome you to the Longines Global Champions Tour of London at the unique and historic setting of Royal Hospital Chelsea.

This prestigious destination in the heart of London represents another great capital city on our global circuit. We are delighted to welcome our international guests and fans to this quintessentially British event for fantastic top sport, entertainment and a great social scene.

The LGCT and GCL Championships are at full throttle as we race towards the overall Finals of the season and the ultimate show jumping showdown at the GC Playoffs in Riyadh. The stakes will be high here in London.

I would like to thank our long-time Title Partner and Official Timekeeper Longines for their fantastic commitment over the years. And I wish all our fans a superb weekend of show jumping.

INTRODUCING THE

MINI DOLCEVITA

WITH EXCLUSIVE DOUBLE TOUR STRAPS: THE OFFICIAL WATCH OF THE 2024 LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR IN LONDON

The 2024 Longines Global Champions Tour in London is the perfect setting to showcase the new Mini DolceVita models with exclusive double tour straps. With its discreet profile, classic styling, and aesthetic variations that are at once timely and timeless, this collection exquisitely expresses, in equal parts, Longines’ quiet luxury and elegance.

Available in various sizes and colours, these models are equipped with straps that are designed exclusively by Longines and encircle the wrist in comfort and softness. A subtle reference to the equestrian world so dear to the Swiss watch brand, the holes in the straps are numbered in hot-press printing from 1 to 6, just like the stirrup leathers that, as the name suggests, connect the saddle to the horse’s stirrups.

Presented in a stainless-steel rectangular case measuring 21.50 mm x 29.00 mm and equipped with a high-precision L178 quartz movement, the new Mini DolceVita models are available in six variants as elegant as they are unique. Three versions sport a silvered rectangular Roman dial distinguished by its flinqué decoration. These models are distinguished by a double tour strap in Nappa leather in a choice of colours: black, beige gold with ivory topstitching, or pink. The two latter models are adorned with 38 Top Wesselton diamonds. A further three variants are available with a circular silvered sunblasted Cosmo dial. In an expression of the collection’s contemporary elegance, these models sport Nappa leather straps in a choice of colours: red, orange or green.

This contemporary jewel watch collection has an impressive lineage: it was inspired by a Longines legend created in 1927 and, of course, the original DolceVita collection.

EXPLAINED LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR

THE ULTIMATE INDIVIDUAL CHALLENGE

The 2024 Longines Global Champions Tour is in full swing and the ultimate individual championship race is heating up.

With 16 stops on the 2024 tour, horses and riders face challenges in technical courses, diverse arenas, and intense competition. Top talent compete across Asia, Europe, The Americas, Africa, and the Middle East, starting in Doha and travelling to prominent locations like Miami Beach, Mexico City, Monaco, Paris, Shanghai, and more. The tour culminates in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where points earned contribute to the grand finale at the GC Playoffs.

The coveted Longines Global Champions Tour Champion of Champions title, won by Harrie Smolders in 2023, is at stake. The LGCT Grand Prix, a highlight of each event, features jumps set at 1.60m. 40 horse-rider combinations qualify for each LGCT Grand Prix through a 5* qualification class. Points are awarded in the LGCT Grand Prix at each stage throughout the year, contributing to the overall championship ranking. Each riders best 8 scores throughout the season count to their points tally.

In a secondary race for glory, riders will be looking to secure a Golden Ticket to the Longines Global Champions Tour Super Grand Prix at the GC Playoffs in November. Only 15 tickets are available, awarded to the winner of each LGCT Grand Prix. Each stage winner secures a Golden Ticket to the LGCT Super Grand Prix where they will go head to head with the other champions of the season.

With all eyes are firmly focused on the 16-leg tour this year, we eagerly await to see who will reach pole position on the leaderboard and earn the coveted title of Champion of Champions in 2024.

QUICK FACTS:

• The height of LGCT Grand Prix jumps are set at 1.60m.

• Riders may choose to ride the horse of theirs best suited to the event, rather than having to stick to one mount throughout the year.

• 40 horse and rider combinations will qualify for each LGCT Grand Prix by competing in the 5* classes preceding Grand Prix day.

• Throughout the year, points are allocated to riders according to their finishing place in each event’s LGCT Grand Prix over the season. Each rider’s top eight scores count towards the overall championship ranking and a share of the bonus prize money.

• Each LGCT Grand Prix winner, or the next highest ranked athlete, secures a Golden Ticket and qualifies for the Super Grand Prix at the final showdown of the year, the GC Playoffs.

Harrie Smolders, Jessica Springsteen, Olivier Philippaerts

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The Fu ture is Green.

GRAND PRIX OF LONDON

We are proud to be this year’s official surface supplier to Longines Global Champions Tour, London

Jump for gold on a surface you can trust time and time again. Reach your full potential with Martin Collins.

EXPLAINED

SHOW JUMPING’S GREATEST TEAM CHALLENGE

This GCL season promises excitement with a roster of meticulously selected teams competing in a 16-event series. Launched in 2016, the GCL brings together riders from different countries, as well as mixing senior and U25 riders, to all compete together united on one team. Team Owners and Managers focus on strategy and team performance in the hopes of succeeding in a highly charged season.

An unique format, each GCL competition combines two rounds on the same day with no drop score. Combined scores from Round 1 carry into Round 2. Round 1 is a CSI 5* 1.55m class, and a short break allows strategic changes before the CSI 5* 1.60m Round 2.

Teams earn points at every stage throughout the year, leading to the Finals. The top four teams post-Final earn a fast track to the GC Playoffs in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for the GCL Super Cup SemiFinals allowing them to skip the knockout QuarterFinals and keep their horsepower fresh.

QUICK FACTS:

• Each team can have three riders per event, with two competing in each round.

• Teams carry penalties from Round 1 to determine Round 2 starting order.

• The GCL winners of that stage have the fewest combined penalties and quickest Round 2 time.

• The GCL Championship Winner is team with the highest points following the end of the regular season, this year taking place in Rabat.

• GC Playoffs feature a Super Cup QuarterFinal, Semi-Final, and Final.

• At the Playoffs, the winning team after the 3 knockout rounds is crowned GCL Super Cup winner in the ultimate showdown.

HALL OF FAME

CANNES STARS

NATALIE DEAN U25

SOPHIE HINNERS

KIM EMMEN SANNE THIJSSEN

BASSEM MOHAMMED

JÉRÔME GUÉRY

JULIEN ANQUETIN

ISTANBUL WARRIORS

ABDEL SAÏD

U25

MAIKEL VD VLEUTEN

AZNAR

BOST

EDUARDO PEREIRA DE MENEZES

HANK GUERREIRO

CELINE SCHOONBROODT DE AZEVEDO

LUIZ FELIPE DE AZEVEDO EDWARD LEVY

PRAGUE LIONS

LONDON DISCOVER

Overflowing with history, culture and creativity, the capital of Great Britain has it all.

London is one of the world’s truly global cities. A centre of high finance as well as home to a unique tapestry of historic buildings, including the Tower of London and the Palace of Westminster to Royal residences including Buckingham Palace.

London is a visitor’s paradise overflowing with an abundance of the best hotels, restaurants, clubs, world famous museums and shopping galore.

On the banks of the River Thames the iconic venue of Royal Hospital Chelsea plays host to the prestigious Longines Global Champions Tour and GCL each year. The stunning architecture of the Sir Christopher Wren building, a legacy of King Charles II is home to around 300 veterans of the British Army, and presents another spectacular destination on the global circuit.

TIMETABLE

LONDON 2023 IN PICTURES

LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR

The unique venue of historic Royal Hospital Chelsea captivated international VIP guests and visitors at the annual London event. The nation’s much-loved veterans, the Chelsea Pensioners, were enthusiastically greeted by everyone at the show.

The elegant Hospitality Lounge welcomed GCL team owners, sponsors and high profile personalities, all impressed by the incredible setting. Individual riders and teams were geared up to write their own piece of history. Stockholm

Hearts powered by H&M We Love Horses were unbeatable with a terrifically fast time ahead of Madrid In Motion and Riesenbeck International powered by Kingsland Equestrian. The three teams, along with Paris Panthers, were dominating the GCL battle.

In front of a full house Jessica Springsteen was victorious on Don Juan van de Donkhoeve in the LGCT Grand Prix and praised the “incredible” show. Her win, ahead of Olivier Philippaerts and Harrie Smolders, propelled her into the mega LGCT Super Grand Prix at the GC Prague Playoffs.

Justin Simons, Olivier Philippaerts, Jessica Springsteen, Harrie Smolders, Jan Tops

John Whitaker & Sharid

Sebastien Kapel & Vanda Gucci, Laura Head, Emma Armstrong, Genene Burnett, Denis Monticolo

Kathryn Fanshawe

Keira Stoute & K.I Guru

Stockholm Hearts Powered by H&M We Love Horses

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS

LUGANO DIAMONDS

A PASSION FOR FINE JEWELRY AND HORSE SPORT

Making exquisite and wearable pieces of art is just one part of Lugano Diamonds’ company ethos. The other is being a good steward to their clients and community partners.

“Lugano is deeply committed to community leadership,” says Founder Moti Ferder. “We believeinmakingcontributionsacrossvarious spheres such as sports, art, education, and health. Through our active engagement in these areas, we reaffirm our dedication to making a positive impact wherever our influence extends.”

The company has deep roots in the diamond business in Antwerp, Belgium, and opened its flagship salon in Newport Beach, California 20 years ago this year. Over the last two decades, Lugano Diamonds has established itself as a leading creator of diamond jewelry in America—making everything from ornate engagement rings and glittering bangles to high jewelry pieces inspired by individual gemstones and the beauty of nature.

Yet far beyond their intimate, elegantly designed salons in seven locations around the U.S., Lugano Diamonds has become a recognizable partner in philanthropic efforts and like-minded lifestyle pursuits worldwide. Golf, luxury cars, and centers for the arts— just to name a few—but especially, the international show jumping community.

“Growing up, horses were an integral part of our family, with my brother Ilan excelling as a showjumping champion from a young age,” Ferder says. “We had a ranch, and our family followed his career all over Europe in his teenage years, fostering a deep love and understanding of the sport within me.”

Moti Ferder has continued the family tradition, partnering with some of the most elite equestrian competitions in the U.S. and beyond. In Europe, that includes the Longines Athina Onassis Horse Show at LGCT Ramatuelle/ Saint Tropez, LGCT Stockholm, LGCT London, and LGCT Rome. “Our partnership with LGCT has been very fulfilling. We’ve been impressed by the series’ dedication and consistent delivery of remarkable experiences,” Ferder says.

The brand is also a longtime supporter of the GCL New York Empire team, which is powered by Lugano Diamonds. “Being a part of [the team] series is truly special to us. What we

cherish the most is the camaraderie and passion displayed by our team members,” explains Ferder.

“Their unwavering commitment to excellence and graceful demeanor are qualities that resonate deeply with us and align perfectly with Lugano Diamonds’ values.”

Showcasing GCL New York Empire owner/ rider Georgina Bloomberg as their first equestrian ambassador, the company also draws on the show jumping world at large for inspiration, creating a unique line of intricately crafted horse-centric jewelry. Some of their pieces include a yellow and

Francisco José Mesquita Musa & Catch Me Marathon, Moti Ferder, Denis Monticolo

white gold stirrup bangle, a D-ring bitinspired enamel tennis bracelet, and black diamond and gold stirrup earrings.

“Having so many clients in the equestrian world inspired us to create pieces that celebrate the equine community, but in general, we craft timeless pieces that transcend any specific genre, allowing each client to express their unique identity through our jewelry,” Ferder says.

“We love the sport and are drawn to its core values of persistence, tenacity, and the pursuit of excellence.”

Their deep-seated commitment to equestrian is just one of the many ways that Lugano Diamonds is far beyond your average jewelry company. And what’s more, they’re just getting started. “We aspire to extend our involvement until Lugano Diamonds becomes synonymous with a prestigious tour like the Longines Global Champions Tour” Ferder says.

“Recognizing the burgeoning connection between the U.S. and European circuits, we are excited to continue to grow our involvement.”

Scott Brash & Hello Jefferson

THIS ESME MEET

We catch up with equestrian content creator and social media star Esme Higgs aka ‘This Esme’. With over 1.8 million followers and a monthly reach in excess of 15 million we just had to find out more…

Tell us about your riding journey, are you from an equestrian family?

“It was when I was 5 years old when I got to ride at a friends birthday party, I remember it felt amazing - I begged my parents for lessons after that. I got my first pony Mickey at the age of 8, I still have him and he still features a lot on my channels.”

How did your social media career start?

“It all started by accident, it wasn’t planned at all. I had a new horse Casper, he was very green and I used to video my riding lessons and showjumping rounds. One summer I decide to make a ‘how to tack up your horse’ video, because I came from a nonequestrian background and I know that some riding schools just teach you how to ride and don’t focus so much on the care side. This was the first video of mine, it ended up with around 1000 views which at the time was mind blowing. I really enjoyed making the more structured videos and started making more Vlogs just because I liked making a video diary for myself. After my exams at school I started making videos almost every day, I got up to 10,000 subscribers just using my phone, but never thought it would take off like it has and become my full time job.”

With your channel you’ve been able to have some incredible equestrian experiences, what are your highlights?

“Highlights would definitely be meeting some of the worlds top riders, riding William FoxPitts ‘Little Fire’, visiting Cian O’Connor at Karlswood, riding with six times gold medalist Paralympic athlete Natasha Baker.

Also some incredible riding experiences, crossing lava fields in Iceland, riding with Elephants, lions and leopards in Botswana, riding western in Utah which felt like being in a Hollywood movie…”

We saw you last year at the LGCT in Londonhow was your experience of the LGCT?

“I think there is only one word and that is ‘epic’. Here in the centre of London with the beautiful backdrop of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, again top level equestrian sport in the heart of beautiful cities, it is an incredible series. One of the things I really enjoy is the team aspect of the competition. I think that really shakes up show jumping and is something that is definitely needed to bring new people into the sport.”

Sarah Lockwood-Taylor: Ben Maher on Explosion W

PRAGUE LIONS

ROAR INTO LONDON!

As the 16-event GCL championship races towards its climax, London is sure to be an epic stage as the 2024 battle for the championship intensifies. At the historic Royal Hospital Chelsea venue, the Prague Lions Powered by Czech Equestrian Team and sponsored by Air Bank, will be on the prowl for a victory.

Team Owner Anna Kellnerovà and her squad have achieved strong placings in recent seasons and will be aiming high in the 2024 overall Championship and GCL Super Cup. The formidable team boasts a powerful blend of hungry young talent, seasoned champions, and enviable horsepower.

The GCL Round 1 and Round 2 in London will be a thrilling spectacle and show jumping fans from around the globe will be waiting to hear the Lions roar in the British capital.

ANNA KELLNEROVÀ

Heading up the Prague Lions as they take on the 2024 season, Anna will be joined by returning teammates Niels Bruynseels, Pieter Devos, Fernando Martinez Sommer, Thibeau Spits (U25). Following the GCL Mid-Season Transfers, the team welcomes Angelica Augustsson Zanotelli in their pursuit of GCL glory.

ANGELICA AUGUSTSSON ZANOTELLI

Angelica Augustsson Zanotelli joins the Prague Lions following the Mid-Season Transfers as they hunt for points in the second half of the season. Angelica’s experience and talent is sure to be an asset for the team as they take on the impressive lineup of teams this season.

THIBEAU SPITS

Thibeau Spits returns to the GCL in 2024 for his second year. The young talent continues to impress in his stellar performances alongside legends of the sport!

Anna Kellnerovà & Catch me If You Can Old

Thibeau Spits & Impress-K van ‘t Kattenheye Z

Angelica Augustsson Zanotelli

NIELS BRUYNSEELS

Niels has ridden in the GCL since 2017, joining the Prague Lions in 2018 after one season with the Vienna Eagles. As a key member of the team, he has played a huge role in the ongoing success of the crowd favorite team.

PIETER DEVOS

Pieter has been a key player in the GCL since 2017. In 2024, Pieter returns to the Prague Lions roster, joining his compatriot Niels Bruynseels, Prague native Anna Kellnerovà, as well as Fernando Martinez Sommer, Thibeau Spits (U25), and Angelica Augustsson Zanotelli for what is shaping up to be a thrilling season.

FERNANDO MARTINEZ SOMMER

Fernando is back for his third GCL season in 2024, returning to the Prague Lions following a host of impressive performances in 2023. With added firepower for the year ahead, could 2024 be the year the Prague Lions come out on top?

Pieter Devos & Nascar van’t Siamshof

Niels Bruynseels & Delux van T & L

Fernando Martinez Sommer & High Five

2024 PODIUMS

GCL MIAMI BEACH

In Miami Beach the dynamic duo from Prague Lions powered by Czech Equestrian Team of U25 rider Thibeau Spits with the 9 year old Impress-K van ‘t Kattenheye Z and Fernando Martinez Sommer with the more experienced Lady van de Haarterhoeve, were the only team to not make a single horse or rider change between the two back-to-back rounds. The tactic paid off as they secured second place behind Rome Gladiators powered by ClipMyHorse.tv.

GCL MEXICO CITY

Prague Lions, powered by Czech Equestrian Team, secured the win in the GCL of Mexico City presented by GNP Seguros as the only team to finish on 5 faults. In a nail-biting finale Thibeau Spits and his exceptional mount Impress-K van ‘t Kattenheye Z and Fernando Martinez Sommer and Lady van de Haarterhoeve clinched victory as the last team to go.

GCL MONACO

In GCL of Monaco Lions dream team of Pieter Devos with Casual DV Z and Niels Bruynseels riding Origi vd Vosberg picked up crucial championship points taking home 2nd place behind Cannes Stars powered by Iron Dames.

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RIDING TECHNOLOGY, RIDING EXCELLENCE

Scan the QR Code to watch the video!

THE ULTIMATE COLLECTION

AT TOPS INTERNATIONAL AUCTION 28th SEPTEMBER 2024

Tops International Auction is proud to present an exclusive collection of sport horses of the highest quality on Saturday 28th September during a stunning evening of entertainment and hospitality.

An international clientele will have access to a truly unmissable collection of horses and foals recognising the ultimate in breeding pedigree and performance. The collection is carefully selected by Stal Tops based on decades of experience, dedication to uncompromising quality and success at the highest level of show jumping.

This spectacular evening at Stal Tops, Valkenswaard, will include live entertainment and superb hospitality followed by the opportunity to bid at the prestigious auction and celebrate at the after party.