www.monge.it
www.monge.it Issue#3 - October 2017
PROFILE
Alberto Zorzi
TRUE FRIENDSHIP
Alberto Zorzi and Fair Light vanT Heike (Photo Courtesy of CSIO Roma/Marco Proli)
Page 11
WISHLIST
Must Haves
Riding jacket Tharros
Page 18
Q.&A.
Mattia Harnacke
Photo Courtesy of FEI/Stéphane Mirão
Page 22
FOR HIM
Contemporary Lord
Briefcase, Boldrini Selleria
Page 14
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resented at the Festival del Cinema di Venezia, Lean on Pete, by Andrew Haigh, tells the story of Charley, an adolescent who has never known his mother and who lives with his father. Not far from their house he discovers a riding school and meets Del Montgomery, its no-longer-young owner and horse trainer. Charley becomes his helper and begins to grow fond of a horse, Lean on Pete, a fast racer, progressively afflicted by the problems which bring Del to sell him to be put down. Charley however, refuses to passively accept this decision. The film is taken from Willy Vlautin’s novel La ballad of Charley Thompson, which the author wanted to be preceded with these immortal words from John Steinbeck: “It is true that we are weak and sick and ugly and quarrelsome, but if that is all we ever were, we would milleniums ago have disappeared from the face of the earth” As we know, Steinbeck was the bard of those who when
Charlie Plummer in Lean on Pete (Photo Courtesy of Teodora Film)
struck by catastrophy, whether economic or otherwise, reveal themselves capable of raising their heads and looking forward. This is the spirit that guided Andrew Haigh in the crafting of a film inspired by the cinema of the seventies in a contemporary setting. Charley would be content with little: a real home, someone to prepare his food, a school where he could make real friends without having to change towns so often. However, with a father who is always in trouble with the law it’s not easy. The two of them are looking for a new start in Portland but Charley soon has to take to the road again, this time alone, deep into America. It is his friendship with Lean on Pete that gives him back the hope for a better future. Charlie Plummer, the actor playing the lead, received the Mastroianni prize for best newcomer for this role and he is surrounded by a stellar cast that includes the actors Steve Buscemi and Chloë Sevigny.
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www.terrealte.net
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OCTOBER 2017
www.lofficinadeigiardini.it EQUESTRIAN ILLUSTRATED
Editor’s Letter 5
OCTOBER 2017
New Season I am delighted to present the third edition of Equestrian Illustrated. As you can tell from the cover we have news! First of these was the decision to alter the publication by choosing a logo which best represents the spirit of this magazine; a spirit dedicated to a world which unites sport with performance and glamour: all aspects which we are constantly bringing together. It is not unintentional that the lifestyle that is associated with equestrian sports has more coverage in the pages of this issue, one which intends to be a pleasant companion during the coming season. It will be available at every stage of the Longines FEI World CupTM Jumping programme, we also remind you here of those dates. See you there!
LONGINES FEI WORLD CUPTM JUMPING - 2017/2018 SEASON Longines FEI World CupTM Jumping Western European League:
London Olympia (UK) 12th - 18th December 2017
Oslo (Norway) 12th - 15th October 2017
Leipzig (Germany) 18th - 21st January 2018
Helsinki (Finland) 19th - 22nd October 2017
Zurich (Switzerland) 26th - 28th January 2018
Verona (Italy) 26th - 29th October 2017
Bordeaux (France) 1st - 4th February 2018
Lyon (France) 1st - 5th November 2017
Göteborg (Sweden) 21st - 25th February 2018
Mechelen (Belgium) 26th - 30th December 2017
Stuttgart (Germany) 15th - 19th November 2017 Madrid (Spain) 23rd - 26th November 2017 La Coruña (Spain) 8th - 10th December 2017
Longines FEI World CupTM Jumping Final: Paris (France) 10th - 15th April 2018
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Contributors
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OCTOBER 2017
11 Page
Page
29
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CATERINA VAGNOZZI Based in Rome, Caterina Vagnozzi has been a freelance journalist specializing in equestrian sports since the 1970s. She has been a member of the International Alliance of Equestrian Journalists since 1987 and national delegate for Italy since 2010. She has always been tied to the equestrian world, originally as a horsewoman, then as a breeder. At the beginning of the 1990s she founded Equi-Equipe, a company providing editorial services connected to big equestrian events. Since the late 1970s she has been a constant contributor to the main Italian sport tabloids, Corriere dello Sport and Gazzetta dello Sport, and also to the broadsheet Il Messaggero.
Editorial Director MARCO POLI m.poli@fashionillustrated.eu Editor in Chief GIULIANO DEIDDA g.deidda@fashionillustrated.eu Art Director FABRIZIO MAJERNA f.majerna@maj-fm.com Editor Consultant PAOLA DE VINCENTIS Contributors Giuseppe Bianchi, Fabio Petroni, Tanya Doubleday-Rudkin (translations), Caterina Vagnozzi
FABIO PETRONI
GIUSEPPE BIANCHI Lawyer in Milan, specialized in antidoping cases, he is the former legal counsel of IJRC and of the Young Riders Academy’s Board. He also used to run Forum, a programme on Class Horse TV.
Editorial Office Corso Colombo 7 20144 Milano Tel. +39 0287365694 www.fashionillustrated.com Publishing House MILANO FASHION LIBRARY Via Alessandria, 8 20144 Milano Tel. +39 0258153208
Born in Corinaldo (AN) in 1964, he lives and works in Milan, Italy. After studying photography, he collaborated with some of the most renowned professionals in the field. His career has led him to specialize in portraiture and still life, where he demonstrates an intuitive and rigorous style. He collaborates frequently with several important Italian brands. Fabio has always spent his life in the company of dogs and horses and is the official photographer of the IJRC and Riders Academy.
Advertising Via Alessandria, 8 20144 Milano Tel. +39 0258153208 Stampa ROTOPRESS INTERNATIONAL SRL Via Brecce - 60025 Loreto ( AN ) Tel. 071 9747511 Via E. Mattei, 106 - 40138 Bologna Tel. 051 4592111
Chairman DIEGO VALISI dvalisi@milanofashionlibrary.it Assistant Publisher LISA RICCI lricci@milanofashionlibrary.it
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Scopri il piacere di abitare la tua passione.
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Contents
OCTOBER 2017
11
PROFILE ALBERTO ZORZI
By Caterina Vagnozzi
14
FOR HIM CONTEMPORARY LORD By Giuliano Deidda
16
FOR HER COUNTRYSIDE GLAMOUR By Giuliano Deidda
18
WISHLIST MUST HAVES
By Giuliano Deidda
20
FOCUS THE FEI WORLD CUP™ IN ITALY By Equi-Equipe
22
Q.&A. MATTIA HARNACKE: FASHIONABLE DRESSAGE By Caterina Vagnozzi
24
PERSONALITIES MARIO PESERICO By Paola De Vincentis
29
EDUCATION A YOUNG RIDERS ACADEMY
32
RETAIL PIETRO MASCHERONI By the editorial staff
34
REPORT HUBLOT POLO GOLD CUP GSTAAD
38
STYLE LORENZO NENCINI By Giuliano Deidda
40
TRADITION PERFECTION IS A LUXURY By the editorial staff
42
LIFESTYLE MY NAME IS WHISKY Prince Feeds his Horse (Photo © Hulton-Deutsch Collection/CORBIS, © The Stylish Life - Equestrian, published by teNeues, www.teneues.com)
44
DATA SHEET NORMA PAOLI
45
DESTINATION SWITZERLAND
46
LEGAL CORNER THE YOUNG RIDERS ACADEMY: A SPECIAL CHALLENGE FOR FUTURE TOP RIDERS By Giuseppe Bianchi
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Profile11
OCTOBER 2017
RIDERS
ALBERTO ZORZI BY CATERINA VAGNOZZI
I
n the international world of showjumping the Blues are under the spotlight once again. The Nations Cup in Rome, a victory in Piazza di Siena after a long thirty-two years wait, then once again in a similar test at San Gallo, in Switzerland, leadership of the 1st Division of the Longines FEI Nations Cup for many weeks and an individual podium placing in the European Championships lost by a whisker (4th place) for Alberto Zorzi. Italy going at full steam, morale high and with a lot of news linked to that particular rider. Twenty-eight years old from Padova, putting his choice of horses in first place since a young age and the call to a world class stables like that of Jan Tops which he took without much conviction (Alberto owes his biggest thanks for his decision to go to his girlfriend Annalisa) Zorzi, who wears the Lance Corporal’s uniform in the Army, only needed a couple of years to be in the pool of the top 15 riders in the world in the company of real giants from the discipline. Jan Tops is a true tycoon of the horse world (owner, breeder, excellent businessman) but above all he is a peerless technician. Alberto, a refined and sensitive horseman with technical maturity acquired in the high-quality sporting atmosphere at the Scuola Padovana di Equitazione, was appreciated for his capabilities and so swiftly the route towards hard to imagine prizes swiftly opened up. Called to the Tops Stall di Valkensward to take care of training young horses, the Veneto horseman soon saw himself given the stables’ most important horses which he masterfully interpreted in half of the world’s sporting arenas. “The work was instantly hard, but exhilarating too. There are never fewer than nine horses in training and the competition programme which is organised in the tiniest detail does not allow for rest of any kind. In stables like the one at Valkensward, if you have the spirit of sacrifice and you want to move up, there are all the conditions available for putting down a solid base for the future. I wasn’t sure about the idea of moving to Holland. I knew that I would be going to the best stables in the world but I was afraid of not being worthy, perhaps I feared the comparison with the great horsemen who had gone before me. This choice quickly proved to be the right one.” Tens of thousands of kilometres have been covered throughout the year, moving from one competition arena to another on both sides of the world, as he has acquired a greater awareness of feeling fine in front of the great champions. Alberto will always hold dear to his memory the 2017 competition season. “Victory at the CSIO in Rome in The Nations Cup victory in the stages of the Longines Global Champions Tour in Montecarlo, second in Berlin, fourth at the European championships in Goteborg and very visible in several events of international standing. Many achievements but also a great regret: the result of the European Championship still really burns. The podium was so close and yet…” To be a champion in the world of equitation, requires: class, technique, dedication, available horses and organization but most of all the right character, the one which means you never lose sight of the most beautiful but also the most brutal reality of the sport. Alberto Zorzi and Fair Light vanT Heike (Photo Courtesy of CSIO Roma/Marco Proli)
Piazza di Siena (Photo Courtesy of Simone Ferraro/CONI)
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Profile
12
OCTOBER 2017
RIDERS
Alberto Zorzi and Fair Light vanT Heike (Photo Courtesy of CSIO Roma/Marco Proli)
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Profile13
OCTOBER 2017
RIDERS
Piazza di Siena (Photo Courtesy of Simone Ferraro/CONI)
“One must always take into account that there is a shared building of results, horse and rider together, and that the horses are our athletic equals. Each of them is different. It is actually because of this that one should never sit back on one’s laurels. Working at an elite, commercial stables, like the one where I am employed, also means giving up marvelous and tried and tested companions in competitions. It happened to me recently with the sale of Cornetto K, the horse that Athina Onassis entrusted to me under the guide of Jan Tops. It is something to be aware of, but it must be said that it is stimulating to put oneself continuously to the test with new horses to bring on to success. That’s how I see it anyway and I am truly happy with the choice I made. Of course, I miss Italy and I am nostalgic at times, but the desire to give the best of myself to my profession and my passion always prevail”.
Italia team winning FEI Nations Cup in Rome, 2017. From the left: Alberto Zorzi, Piergiorgio Bucci, Bruno Chimirri, Lorenzo De Luca and chef d’equipe Robertto Arioldi (Photo Courtesy Simone Ferraro/CONI)
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Wishlist
14
OCTOBER 2017
FOR HIM
CONTEMPORARY LORD BY GIULIANO DEIDDA
British style classics are revamped and remixed for the season.
Lacquered cufflinks, Hackett London
Casentino tie, Thomas Mason
Mercerized cotton button-down shirt, Brooks Brothers
Knitted wool and alpaca sleeveless crew-neck, Stella McCartney
Valentino, Fall Winter 2017 Saddle stitched waterproof peccary leather gloves, Restelli
Jacquard merino and cashmere turtleneck, DoppiaA
Leather ankle wing brogue boots, DIS (Photo by Yuri Catania)
White Snow, limited edition cashmere flat-front trousers, Entre Amis
Leather briefcase, Boldrini Selleria
Anniversary edition acetate sunglasses with 18 carat gold small cylinders, Persol
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violettanakhimova@gmail.com
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Wishlist
16
OCTOBER 2017
FOR HER
COUNTRYSIDE GLAMOUR BY GIULIANO DEIDDA
An equestrian inspired style, with a hint of romance
FEI Longines World Cup official Master Collecion watch with diamonds on the blue soleil dial and alligator strap, Longines
Studded leather cap, Miu Miu
Wool and viscose cape, Fay
Nappa leather gloves, Restelli
Bottega Veneta Fall Winter 2017 Silk blouse, Massimo Alba
Denim pants, Michael Kors
Metal and leather keyring, Salvatore Ferragamo
Leather bag, Boldrini Selleria Polished calfskin boots, Baldinini
Leather belts, Equitago Sport
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www.equitago.it
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Wishlist
18
OCTOBER 2017
RIDING
MUST HAVES BY GIULIANO DEIDDA
The best for the rider and the horse. Polycarbonate riding helmet, Hermès
Hand finished leather with soft padding on the headpiece, browband, noseband and cheekpieces, Horseware.
Breathable fabric riding polo shirt, Animo Italia
Calfskin boots, Parlanti Roma
Snaffle, Sprenger
Quilted saddle pad, Equiline
Full-grain leather ergonomic bellyguard girth, Bruno Delgrange
Pile turnout rug, Eskadron
Competition breeches, Cavalleria Toscana
Mesh gloves, Roeckl
Three-button velvet riding jacket with suede buttons, Tharros
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Focus
20
OCTOBER 2017
EVENTS
THE FEI WORLD CUP™ IN ITALY BY EQUI-EQUIPE Abdel Said on Hope van Scherpen Donder (Photo Courtesy of Jumping Verona/S.Grasso)
P
Passion, excitement and suspense are synonymous with the FEI World Cup™ series which began with Jumping in 1978, and was then extended to Dressage in 1985, Driving in 2001 and Eventing in 2003. The FEI World Cup was set up with the 1978-79 indoor season, thanks to the insight of Max Amman, a Swiss journalist considered by sector specialists to be an authentic guru, and the impetus of the International Riders Association, and took equestrian sports from the large open-air arenas to sports centres, from natural grass fields to courses with sand and synthetic materials. The World Cup arrived in Italy five years after the launch of the circuit, which took place in 1978. It was 1983 when Milan became the first city to host the Italian leg of the show jumping World Cup, inside the Palasport. And the win went one to the great Irish rider Eddie Macken on El Paso. In 1984, as the Milan venue became unavailable, the event was moved out of the city to Birago, inside the Circolo Ippico Brianteo, where the French national anthem was played for Flambeau C and Frédéric Cottier, a rider that has deeply marked the history of show jumping. The lack of a suitable venue meant that Italy was unable to host a world cup leg for ten long years. The international show jumping circus finally returned to Italy in 1995, inside the Palasport at Casalecchio di Reno, just outside Bologna. Top names all took part in the six editions held here, with some of the best
standing as winners: the Dutch Jan Tops (Top Gun), the French Patrice Delaveau (Roxanne De Gruchy), the British John Whitaker (Grannusch), the German Rene Tebbel (Radiator), the Swiss Lesley Mc Naught Maendly (Dulf) and again John Whitaker (Welham). Fieracavalli then put forward its candidacy to host the prestigious event, that made its debut in Verona in November 2001. Every edition since then has been crowned with huge success, both in terms of organization and of impressive audience numbers. Major episodes in jumping have already been written over the previous sixteen editions of Jumping Verona, thanks to horses and riders whose careers are deservedly part of the history of this extraordinary equestrian discipline: the Belgian Stanny Van Paesschen (O De Pomme), the Brasilian Rodrigo Pessoa (Lianos), the Germans Lars Nieberg (Loreana), Tony Hassmann (Lolita), Alois Pollmann (Lord Luis) and Christian Ahlmann (Aragon Z), the Dutchs Albert Zoer (Oki Doki), Gerco Schroeder (Eurocommerce Milano) and Jeroem Dubbeldam (BMC Simon), the British Michael Whitaker (Insul Tech Amai), the Spanish Sergio Alvares Moya (Zipper), the Irish Bertam Allen (Molly Malone V), the French Simon Delestre (Hermes Ryan) and the Egyptian Adbel Said (Hope Van Sherpen Donder). All of this contributed to make Fieracavalli and Jumping Verona as one of the top events of the Western Europe League of the Longines FEI World Cup™.
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Q.&A.
22
OCTOBER 2017
RIDERS
MATTIA HARNACKE: FASHIONABLE DRESSAGE BY CATERINA VAGNOZZI Photo Courtesy of FEI/Stéphane Mirão
H
is presence, over the last few months, at some of the most important events of the Federazione Equestre Internazionale calendar has certainly not gone unnoticed. He is extremely handsome, but also extremely nice and extremely keen. Matt Harnacke, Italian mother and German father, twenty years old, resident in Sydney Australia since he was ten, is a professional model. Brands of the calibre of Emporio Armani and Dolce&Gabbana both fight to have him on their runways. The fashion world has always attracted him, but no more so than that of horses. It was actually at a competition close to home that Matt was discovered about two years ago, by a local modelling agency who got him involved in the activity, which until then, for him had been just a dream. It wasn’t long before he was walking runways at London and Milan fashion weeks. In the saddle since he was a child, he says, “I was 8 years old, we still lived in Italy and the first times stood out as being frightening, fortunately I overcame this quickly and well”, as a horseman he excelled in dressage, which in the equestrian sporting panorama is seen as the discipline which is the highest expression of an unusual combination of elegance, power, precision and extraordinary union between horse and rider. His work takes him around the world but wherever he is between shows he succeeds in dedicating his time to this great passion of his. In Australia, where he lives, he has a horse called Chase which he rides in dressage and which he constantly trains, but ever more often he uses his travels in Europe and in America to visit stables belonging to important riders who are also exceptional trainers. As Matt is also an influencer with thousands of followers, the Federazione Internazionale has signed him up as the face of the international world of top riders, a professional engagement which Matt is really loving and taking forward. A fabulous experience for a horse lover, think of being able to share days at the greatest sporting events together with your idols, the best riders in the world, a host of emotions which Matt communicates to his followers really efficiently via social media, by posting hundreds of photos, videos and interviews. Photo Courtesy of FEI/Stéphane Mirão
Let’s hear what he thinks about this wonderful experience.
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Q.&A. 23
OCTOBER 2017
RIDERS
Over the last months you have been a special guest in many CSIO events and you joined the Olympus of the show jumping world. What impression did the top riders world make on you? I have been very lucky to have been invited. It has really opened my eyes into the world of the top international riders. It is amazing to see how driven and passionate they are, then, at the same time, they also know how to unwind, let their hair down and have a bit of fun. It really showed me that at this top level of horse sport, there has to be a balance. Despite the fact most, or if not all the riders are highly competitive, it was encouraging to see how they all displayed great sportsmanship. Did you also meet Italian riders? What did you think? Yes I did. I first met them when I was invited to the Longines FEI Nations Cup qualifier in Rotterdam. It was really great to meet them and talk about how they prepare for competition. I was then lucky enough to meet them again and had the opportunity to interview them when I was in Barcelona in September, for the Longines FEI Nations Cup Final. The Italian team is so much fun, they have such a brotherly feeling with one another, a true companionship. They are constantly making jokes and having a laugh. They are all so good natured and very down to earth. They seem to be a very happy-go-lucky bunch of guys and also very supportive of each other in competition.
What are your hopes for the coming year and what kind of modelling work are you doing? I’m looking forward to going to Europe in the next year, which means my horse would have to fly with me, he’s coming with me! He’s part of the family. I’m very, very excited, not just for my modelling work, but for the horse community there. There are amazing resources in Europe and amazing horses and trainers. I’m looking to buy a show jumper when I come and to get into show jumping. I’ve had the privilege of riding at a few show jumping stables lately, and my inner show jumper is ready! My horse can’t jump, so that means I’ll have two, but that means horse shopping, so I’m very excited about that. I do a bit of everything when it comes to modelling, I do campaigns, I do commercials, and I do runways. I’ve been very lucky to be able to work with some very good brands and I’ve just been taking what’s come my way and making the most of it. I’m very grateful that I can do this as a living. On the catwalk of the Emporio Armani Spring Summer 2017 collection
Who is your favourite rider in Dressage and in Show Jumping and why? My favourite rider in show jumping is by far Lorenzo De Luca. He is such a nice guy and very talented. He also seems to be a very fair-minded rider. For dressage, I really like Carl Hester. I was fortunate enough to meet him at a show and he seems like a nice guy. He is incredible to watch, and mesmerizing to see how he works in partnership with his horse. Have you visited equestrian shows in Italy? Unfortunately, I have not been to any shows in Italy, but it is certainly something I would like to do in the future. I do hope that, if my schedule allows it next year, I will be able to visit Rome and come to the Piazza di Siena for the Longines FEI Nations Cup qualifier. The setting of this competition looks so beautiful in the gardens of Villa Borghese in Rome. So, this is something I really look forward to doing in the future. When you ride do you wear Italian manufactured clothing or accessories ( boots, helmets)? It is funny that you should ask this, because all of my favourite brands when it comes to riding apparel are Italian! I love KEP helmets and I have 2 of them. The clothes I love for riding are the brands Equiline and Animo. I find they are really comfortable and suit me best. What is your advice to youngsters regarding riding safety? I must say that our sport is a powerful sport and full of adrenaline. There are risks but it is necessary to be careful and also be conscious that things can change very quickly. My best piece of advice for everyone is to really trust your horse! The relationship between a rider and horse is very special and you must have confidence in that bond, I feel this helps in terms of safety. The way you move will also influence the movements of your horse. Listening to each other will ensure you stay safe. For me, my mantra is: stay safe today to ride tomorrow!
Mattia Harnacke with the Italian team in CSIO Rotterdam, 2017. From the left: Lorenzo De Luca, Luca Marziani, Emanuele Gaudiano and Piergiorgio Bucci (Photo Courtesy of FEI/Stéphane Mirão)
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On the catwalk of the Les Hommes Spring summer 2018 collection
Q.&A.
24
OCTOBER 2017
PERSONALITIES
THE PLEASURE OF SPENDING YOUR
FREE TIME IN THE OPEN AIR BY PAOLA DE VINCENTIS
Interview with Mario Peserico, CEO of Eberhard Italia Spa and Director General of Eberhard & Co.
Mario Peserico Mia 2017 (Photo by Christian La Greca)
B
orn in 1965, Mario Peserico, joined the board at the Italian headquarters of Eberhard in 1993, as head of external relations. In these years where the brand is busy consolidating its reputation, Mario Peserico recognizes product as the true key player in Eberhard’s success, a company which now as ever, aspires to maintaining the uniqueness of the combination of design and technical development. A limited edition of the Crono 4 has been created to celebrate the 130th anniversary, an emblematic model which encapsulates and represents the essence of the house and confirms its natural inclination towards evolution, is presented in a limited series of 130. We managed to tear him away from his thousands of duties to tell us about his favourite, free-time activities, beginning with the recent rediscovery of horse-riding. How did your passion for horses come about? I live in the area around Varese, in Brughiera. It is difficult to remain immune to the passion for horses. Having so many friends who go to stables, I tried riding again after many years. I had a bad experience on a horse when I was young, because I fell and hit my head. I wasn’t scared by it and it didn’t stop me from getting back on horseback but after that I started doing a lot of other sports. However, returning to the sacred place for equitation in Lombardy made me want to go back to it. Have you been riding for long as an amateur? It’s been five years now. I go on a lot of hacks. I have also been to see some local shows. Tell us about other sports you do. Canoeing, running and cycling for example. Just yesterday morning I went riding at 9, then I was out on my bicycle at 10.30 and in the afternoon, I went for a run. What are your first memories associated with horses? Unfortunately only the ugly incident I mentioned before. I was in the mountains, I remember I was wearing a white sweater which was stained with blood, even though I hadn’t been seriously hurt. It was just a brief episode. Then at 6, I started to play tennis and then following that, rugby which I have played for 17 years. With such an important role in a company like Eberhard, how do you manage to make time to dedicate to your passions? The problem occurs when I am away for work at the weekend. In fact, I can’t do sport on a working day, apart from boxing which I do once a week. In fine weather, I try to go canoeing at Milan’s Idroscalo once a month but in the main, my sporting activities are concentrated at the weekend. When I am not at home, I must be satisfied with a treadmill in the gym of some hotel. I know you like to follow shows, even if only on television. What do you think of the technical evolution in show jumping in the last few years? I must say that as in other sports who year after year had mature champions, like Rich Fellers, for example, we were his sponsors for a couple of years when he was no longer a young man, there is now a marked generational change which is starting to show and that is very positive. This is perhaps due to the fact that riding today is much more accessible and so ever younger people are coming up. I am thinking of names like Penelope Léprevost, Ben Maher and Jessica Springsteen for example.
Chrono 4 130 Edition Limitée, limited edition of 130 pieces, celebrating the Eberhard & Co. 130th anniversary
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FOLLOW YOUR PASSION www.ridersadvisor.com
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Q.&A.
26
OCTOBER 2017
PERSONALITIES
Mario Peserico with Aramis, K.W.P.N. (19 years old)
Mario Peserico in his rugby years
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Smooth like glass. Resistant to chemicals, temperature changes and wear. Crystalline gloss without any imperfection. Antiallergic and biocompatible. First in the world, once again
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Focus 29
OCTOBER 2017
EDUCATION
A YOUNG RIDERS ACADEMY Photos Courtesy of Fabio Petroni/a young Riders Academy Sport Manager Sven Holmberg with the 2016 class visit the Laboratory at the Uppsala University
T
he project is the result of a multifaceted reasoning: the world of sports is evolving fast and athletes must become self-managers to achieve their ambitions. The equestrian sport, for causes related to its nature, has lagged a lot behind others. The above scenario in 2014 inspired the Athenaeum working group and the young Riders Academy was the consequence of this. The programme consists of the founding and organisation of a riding college dedicated to young talents. The young Riders Academy has been developed by Athenaeum under the patronage of the European Equestrian Federation and with the cooperation of the International Jumping Riders Club. Rolex, the world’s leading Swiss watch brand, has been part of the project since the beginning. This platform gives selected talented riders between the ages of 18 and 23 the chance to experience about six months of tailor-made training and boarding at a well-known professional stable. The program also includes professional education on topics such as: Veterinary, Business & Economics and Communication and the Legal Aspects of the activity. Educational subjects are also taught in partnership with Franklyn University Switzerland and Uppsala University of Agricultural Sciences. “This project represented an entirely new concept for promising riders, also hailing from developing countries. For the first time in 2014 a broad new formula had been offered to help future professionals and after three years of experience we can affirm it does work” declared Breido Graf zu Rantzau, member of Athenaeum’s Board. “It was definitely a new concept and we hope it transforms the training asset. The goal was not just to help athletes, but to educate them as to a modern sport system which requires further skills; we aim to develop future champions as well as potential managers of equestrian sport by also opening their minds to cultural aspects” stated Eleonora Moroni Ottaviani, Board member. A few years ago, when we first started to consider this project, we would never have imagined dealing with such a scenario as we actually have done. Furthermore, we were not expecting to experience and enjoy so many exciting situations with these athletes, as we currently are. While on the one hand, Riders Academy forces us to commit ourselves to various aspects, selection, finances, education sessions, clinics
Board member Eleonora Moroni Ottaviani and Breido Graf zu Rantzau discuss about the upcoming selection during the Toscana Tour in Arezzo
Board Members Giuseppe Bianchi and Breido zu Rantzau with Valentina Ottaviani
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EDUCATION
The 2017 class visit the faculty of the Uppsala University of Agricultural Science
DMV PhD Peter Kallings lesson about Doping and analysis of samples
organization and invitations for major events such as World Cups, CSI5*, CSIOs, debut at Senior European Championships. On the other hand, seeing these young people growing up, both as humans and as athletes, is really rewarding. All this brings into our Board a surge of enthusiasm and, maybe, even a bit of youth. Our goals are many: to make these young people aware of what a great champion needs: extensive knowledge in veterinary, anti-doping, legal issues, fair play and ethics, marketing, business and economics; to allow them to live close to their idols for a period of time where they can learn from them; to give them the chance of competing in the showgrounds all athletes dream of or have dreamt of and watching them leaving the arena with the greatest satisfaction. To implement all this and to perceive their happiness and gratitude with the awareness of being able to do something concrete for the future of our sport... is priceless! Are we really dreaming? Perhaps when a project originates from the heart, and it is supported by real passion, even a dream can come true. At the end of the day, our aim is to help young talents to obtain success, to show the world what they are worth and to give them a solid foundation to become athletes or champions in sports and in life, as men or women of true values. Since the beginning, it has been our intention not only to help Young Riders, but also to build a solid base for them in their lives as professionals. When you are making the step from Local or even National shows to the International level, it is always a benefit to have someone in the same situation to talk with. To compare experiences, to get support, to get a comforting word when life or at the very best to share the joy of a good result is not always easy, and one of our goals is to enhance it. This is what a Young Riders Academy Family is all about. During the year in the academy, riders meet each other and, hopefully, friendships are established, creating groups to trust and to share everything with. What we did in 2016 was to start the process of building bridges between different years’ promotions. We have invited riders from all teams to common clinics. The first experience was in Opglabbeek under the guidance of Jos Lansink, followed by invitation to the CSI 2* at Sentower Park. The second time recently took place in Balve with a clinic directed by Franke Sloothaak. Riders from all years, so far, have been invited on a first
Jos Lansink and Louis Konickx during a teaching moment at the Opglabbeek clinic
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come first served basis as places are always limited. Once a rider enters the programme and achieves it, he will be part of our team permanently, because once an Academy member, always a member. During the years to come we will continue to build on this concept to strengthen the bonds in the family, and already an exclusive competition for a young Riders Academy members will probably take place in 2018. During the first three years, it became evident that there is a huge gap between the best Young Riders in the traditionally strong European countries and those who strive with their sport in Central and Eastern Europe. We will try to start bridging that gap by offering Young Riders a free three-day clinic close to home. “Special attention has been dedicated to the Eastern European countries, with the clear idea of also opening up the project to young riders coming from these countries, in the upcoming Years” stated Giuseppe Bianchi, member of Athenaeum’s Board. The first test was made at the end of March in Bulgaria. Jean-Maurice Bonneau led a highly-appreciated training for 15 Young Riders representing seven different countries. The arrangement was very successful, thanks to the tremendous help of Teodor Sheytanov, Secr. Gen. of the Bulgarian Equestrian Federation. Even the Bulgarian Minister of Sports made a half day visit to us at the training camp. For this year edition, we have two riders from Poland participating in the full programme and, hopefully, next year we will also have a Bulgarian rider as a team member. At the moment, we have about 20 young talents. 10 selected for the 2017/2018: Kendra Brinkhop (GER), Francesca Ciriesi (ITA), Michael G Duffy (IRL), Matt Garrigan (IRL), Adam Grzegorzewski (POL), Guido Klatte (GER), Niklas Krieg (GER), Karin Martinsen (SWE), Andrzej Oplatek POL) and Karen Polle ( JPN). Another 10 are from the previous years: Michal Duffy (IRL), Laura Klaphake (GER), Maria Madenova (RUS), Derin Demersoy (TUR), Bertram Allen (IRL), Basile Rubio (FRA), Giampiero Garofalo (ITA), Margaux Roquet (FRA) and Paal Flam (NOR). We also have few that we are monitoring in order to have them in the future: Ventsilav Izor (BUL), Guido Franchi (ITA), Matteo Leonardi (ITA). To enter Riders Academy, each European Federation is invited to propose up to three candidates for the programme. Riders must demonstrate riding skills based on excellent results in 140-150 classes and submit a personal profile for evaluation including education, interests and ambitions. A total of 25 riders will be selected from the pool of applicants by a panel which consists of Otto Becker, Jean-Maurice Bonneau, Dirk Demeersman, Emile Hendrix and Sven Holmberg, our Sport Director. Those selected athletes are invited to a CSI 3* show either in Italy (Toscana Tour) or in Germany (Landgestüt Redefin). During these events, the candidates’ performance, both in riding and interview, is assessed by the selection panel. Our list of trainers include: Jos Lansink, Franke Slookthak, Jean Maurice Bonneau, Rodrigo Pessoa, Marco Kutscher. They train and follow the riders also during events. We are working with Henk Nooren, Wim and Ben Shroeder, Rolf Goran Bengston, Marcus Beerbaum. Franke Sloothaak, Jos Lansink, Jean Maurice Bonneau..... only the best!! For education we have two good partners: The Agriculture University of Uppsala and the Franklin University Switzerland, based in Lugano that provide professors to teach during our Educational Seminar. We also have highly skilled professionals who bring their knowledge to our project: For instance, regarding veterinary issues we have DMV Stéphane Montavon and Mattia Piffaretti a sport psychologist helps the riders to reach their peak mental preparation for important events.
EDUCATION
Emma OʼDwyer trots the horse while the others see the lameness diagnostic technology at work
Matt Garrigan learn how to train with the long rein during a lesson with Jen Fredriccsson
Some of the Irish riders with John Roche during the FEI Head Quarter visit
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PIETRO MASCHERONI Mascheroni is 120 years old and its CEO tells us the secrets of this unique company’s success. Mascheroni Moda
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ow would you describe Mascheroni’s uniqueness? Mascheroni’s uniqueness is the brand Mascheroni. We are a retail company with a name, which is thought of as a brand, there are still a lot of people who believe us to be producers when we actually aren’t, for the moment (laughs). Today the brand is very strong because knowing how to integrate the history of a business, which began in 1898 with innovation, is not easy and we are actually managing to do just that. I often hear that family-run businesses have to learn to innovate, well for us it is routine. Mascheroni is a well-established company which has spent the last decades with innovation as its complete and daily goal. Today, Mascheroni is an international benchmark for sectors which are seemingly so different from each other. What are the differences when managing the different stores? What do they have in common? They have the brand in common. It transmits values which are very rare today, the family, tradition, new things and customer care, these are words which many often speak, but very few establish a business truly founded on these values. The sectors are very different, the fashion sector brings together a selection of brands into the Mascheroni world, which are perceived to be of a higher quality than they perhaps are. The sportswear sector is the freshest, it unites a young trendy world with iconic and commercial sneakers, we have proposals which come from deeper research than that of chain-stores like Footlocker or Size?. Equitation is our home, the place where it all started. Today we are expanding the saddlery sector abroad in a solid way. In 2018 consumers will find us at the best international competitions in all Europe.
Mascheroni Family portrait, 1917
Of course, being a family-run concern is part of your strength. How have you divided the roles between your brothers and yourself? What was more important, passion or skills? That’s a good question. All four of us are born workers; in the same family where we dine on bread, horses, pasta, shops, prosciutto crudo and clients. Over the last ten years, since I have been running the business, we have carried out a lot of innovation, Silvia is in charge of personnel, Caroline is our fashion buyer, whilst Ugo is in charge of the sneakers sector. I would say that passion and skill are shared 50%, it is impossible to think of not loving your job, so passion and skill really do go together. Passion pushes you on to become better, giving you the humility to learn constantly every hour of every day and in so doing to increase your skills.
but not only, at that supermarket. Today we talk about consumer at the centre or customer oriented, in our company the client has always been absolutely the most important thing. For equitation we have something new which we are very pleased with, a client service: Premium Mascheroni. It is a sales channel where we meet the clients’ needs completely, a service of such high quality that it goes from the sale of saddles at the riding school to bespoke clothing, blankets, numnahs and curtains for the horsebox, to sales directly to householders or stables. Today Mascheroni is a well-rounded far-ranging concern, delivering high quality in everything it does. Only this way can you have a dialogue with your potential customer and over time have them become clients.
How has the market changed and consequently the clientele, since you came into the family business? The clientele has changed a lot. My mother, who was the solid leader of the company for 50 years, always said that clients change radically every 7 years. This is even faster today. The client is dynamic, demanding and liquid. Product is everywhere, Amazon, large scale distribution, shopping malls, e-commerce and historical centres. The faithful client does not exist. All of us buy from everywhere. Then there are places where you buy more, I am thinking about Esselunga, for me the absolute leader and benchmark, I mainly shop there,
Talking of product however, what has the evolution been for products for horses and their riders over the last few years? Both from a technical and from an aesthetic point of view. It has been the same as we have found in our company. If you knew to innovate whilst maintaining traditions alive you have gone forward, but if you have sat on your laurels you have stayed put. Nowadays many new brands and new products have replaced those which were around just 10 years ago. Just as an example of this: boots and protection for the horse, lightweight and tough in plastic and carbon fibre, moulded in neoprene. They have completely
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replaced the ones in leather, which were used for many years, and today are in common use by everyone and it has been a definite improvement all round: safety, ease of use, cleanliness and comfort for the horse. But also jackets and trousers with or without silicone grips in 4waystretch fabrics, breathable and antibacterial for intense sporting performance which have completely replaced cotton or wool. Competition jackets are absolutely comfortable and elegant for everyone. Sport has come into the prestigious and classic sector of equitation. If you have married these two aspects together you have achieved results. As far as Mascheroni Moda and Mascheroni Sportswear are concerned, what are your real strengths in best-seller terms? Mascheroni Moda has always been the benchmark for winter clothing, coats or down jackets. We have always had a clientele looking for tradition and research and has found from us a wide range of winter clothing of extremely high quality, adapted to every professional and for everyone in the family. With Mascheroni Sportswear there are sweatshirts, T-shirts, jeans, urbanstyle and backpacks, but most of all sneakers and boots for everyone. We keep all of the most commercial up to date sneakers which are also the most iconic of the moment. You are counting a lot on e-commerce. Aside from the geographical ones, what are the differences between clients in the stores and those online? Starting with the type of product bought? We are actually launching a full English version of our e-commerce this year during the Verona Fieracavalli, www.mascheronistore.com. Our international clients are growing steadily. The website mascheronistore.it is my creation. It has been active for 5 years, having 3 sections (and their relative mini sites) fashion, saddlery and sportswear. Initially, and I am talking about more than 10 years ago, we started out with the first version, solely with the equitation saddlery sector. E-commerce means multichannel for our company, Mascheroni is competitive on three fronts, classic point of sale – the store in Giussano – the online shop and on the road sales at the most important trade fairs and international and national conpetitions. My father Carlo was the first to sell during a show at Castellazzo 50 years ago, today we are selling abroad. The e-commerce client is therefore the Mascheroni client. Of course, there is a generic customer who will buy looking for the lowest price of a particular
Pietro Mascheroni (Photo by Fabio Petroni)
Mascheroni Selleria
item, but our challenge every day, is to be beside our clients. We are always with them. We have a constant relationship with them. This is what makes us stand out. To always be together, shop, e-commerce or whatsapp, The pleasure of buying from Mascheroni is a unique one. Some years ago, you started a partnership with Chocolat, the Milanese mecca for lovers of sweet things. How did this choice come about? Do you have similar projects planned? It was a commercial choice made possible by a sharing of great passions: ice cream and chocolate together with fashion. The capsule collection Chocolat at Mascheroni is a noteworthy high quality addition. In the past the Mascheroni Moda shop was also called Moda Cafè because we have always liked to take time to enjoy a coffee with our clients, a wonderful moment of absolute conviviality. Today that area has been transformed into a true food concept. Breakfasts, light lunches, afternoon breakfasts and a lot of ice cream (also take away) We welcome customers every day seven days a week, between a coat and a saddle, for relaxing or chatting with friends Chocolat is perfect. Chocolat Milano is expanding abroad with points of sale from Abu Dhabi to San Diego. Furthermore, as far as I am concerned, to link us is my longstanding friendship with Luca Maggi the owner of Chocolat in number 9 via Boccaccio in Milan.
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TOURNAMENT
HUBLOT POLO GOLD CUP GSTAAD
Banque Eric Sturdza vs Riva
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Four times Cedric Schweri already tried to win the Gold Cup and the Hublot watch that goes with it. His father even said it might be easier to just buy one, rather then try to win it playing the tournament. But Cedric knew the fifth time would be the right one. With his Team Banque Eric Sturdza, he finally won the trophy and therefore the most important summer tournament of Switzerland, The Hublot Polo Gold Cup of Gstaad. Like most finals, the game was very tense. Pressure, stress, fear of loosing and like Marcos Riglos, MVP, pointed out: “The field was not easy to play on after five games. It was difficult to make the ball roll and to control it. It was not an easy polo to play, but we succeeded anyways. I am proud to have been nominated MVP but this victory truly was a team effort. I am here for the third time and it is an incredible place. The organization is perfect and the atmosphere great.” In front of 4.000 people, a rare number for European polo, the game took some time to get under its way. Multiple faults and time-outs and only 4 goals after two chukkers (2-2). With three goals, one of which by captain Cedric Schweri, Banque Eric Sturdza managed to create a small gap during the third chukker, but not for long as Riva nearly closed it in the forth chukker, being only one goal behind their rivals (6-5). The game was not yet settled, but in the last minutes Marcos Riglos and Nico Lopez Fuentes sealed the deal: 8-5. Cedric Schweri could finally hold the coveted trophy, the big face of a Hublot watch: “I am really happy, because this is the result of a lot of work and a big organization. I want to thank Eric Sturdza who believed in us. It was hard.” The Swiss captain suffered from an injury during the game as a ball hit his elbow. “I applied some ice spray and could play again but it was really hurting. It was difficult to hold my mallet properly!” But the joy of victory rapidly made him forget the pain. “One thing is for sure, I will come back next year to defend my title!” Team Gstaad Palace claims the third place defeating Team Hublot in the first game of the day. During the first three chukkers the teams were tied, but in the last chukker and within a few minutes Gstaad Palace scored three goals in a row, a gap Hublot could not fill, leaving the final score at 10-7. Once again the tournament was a huge success and the weather had an important part in it. The sun was out every day driving a big number of people to this 22nd edition. A truly traditional tournament, the Hublot Polo Gold Cup is also one of the most beautiful ones of the European season.
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Banque Eric Sturdza players
Intro of the match
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Gstaad Palace vs Hublot
Progression: Banque Eric Sturza: 1/2 – 2/2 – 5/3 et 8/6 Banque Eric Sturza: Cédric Schweri (SUI, Cap h0, 1 goal), Joao Novaes (BRE, h5, 3 goals), Marcos Riglos (ARG, h5, 3 goals), Nico Lopez Fuentes (ARG, h4, 3 goals) Riva: Mohamed el Sewedy (EGY, Cap h1), Patricio Rattaghan (ARG, h3, 1 goal), Marcelo Pascual (ARG, h6, 3 goals), Silvestre Fanelli (ARG, h4, 4 goals) Most valuable player: Marcos Riglos (Banque Eric Sturza) Best playing poney: Sanducero, hongre argentin monté par Nico Lopez Fuentes and owned by Gery de Cloedt Best scorers of the tournament: Eduardo Menendez (Hublot) et Marcos Riglos (Banque Eric Sturza), 13 goals each
Banque Eric Sturdza vs Hublot
Pierre E. Genecand during the Gala Night in the VIP tent
The Winners - Banque Eric Sturdza
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Laura Klaphake team 2016
A young Riders Academy is a program conceived for young talented show jumpers, under the patronage of the European Equestrian Federation (EEF), with the cooperation of the International Jumping Riders Club (IJRC) and the support of Rolex. www.ridersacademy.eu
#YRAfamily
Karen Polle
“We support our riders during their journey to professionalism, as a family”
Andrzej Oplatek
Matt Garrigan
Francesca Ciriesi
Guido Klatte
Michael G Duffy
Adam Grzegorzewski
Kendra Brinkop
RIDERS ACADEMY TEAM 2017
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Niklas Krieg Karin Martinsen
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STYLE
LORENZO NENCINI BY GIULIANO DEIDDA
The manager of Incom, and head of the U.S. Polo Assn. project, tells us about the continuous rise of the brand over the last ten years.
Lorenzo Nencini Head of the U.S. Polo Assn. apparel project
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ow did the decision come about ten years ago to buy the license for the U.S. Polo Assn.? A personal passion or marketing? The story I am about to tell you comes from coincidence and from intuition, which brought me to be passionate firstly about the game of polo itself and then the professional project. At that time, I was always travelling to the United States, where I came across the brand U.S. Polo Assn., I started to wear it and I really liked and appreciated its authentic association with the game of polo. Following on from that, came the decision to bring it to Europe. I was under the impression that the market might welcome it positively, for its style and for its values of reference. I didn’t hesitate, I organized a meeting with the American ownership and, after a few months, our family-run company was ready to present the U.S. Polo Assn. at the 73th edition of Pitti Immagine Uomo. Today, ten years later, U.S. Polo Assn. is an established brand in Europe and confirms my expectations, more than the value of the brand, thanks to the commitment my company has dedicated to creating a path for growth for the brand, on the old continent. It is not only a question of passion. Nor simply of commitment, but without shadow of a doubt it is a combination of the two. Over the years, the brand has seen constant growth mostly in our country, in difficult times for the market. What is your secret? We have stayed true to the identity of the brand and have never betrayed its original DNA, distinguished by its close link to the game of polo. People who wear U.S. Polo Assn. know us and share the brand’s lifestyle. Our clothing follows current trends without losing touch with the origins of the brand and, above all, we have managed to unite the characteristics of the product with our intended target.
What are the strengths in style terms of the U.S. Polo Assn. collections and in particular the 2017 Fall Winter collection for example, the one now in the shops? Our men’s, women’s and children’s collections for U.S. Polo Assn. are the perfect union of American stars and stripes identity and Italian style, imagined for a European public as far as regards fit, quality of fabric and research into detail. The collection proposed for this season in particular, stands out for the choice of precious materials, like wool and cashmere, combined with silk and embroidered inserts for women or with applied patches for men, which represent the perfect harmony between creativity and functionality. What are the iconic items, the ones which identify U.S. Polo Assn.? Definitely it is the polo shirt that is the brand’s iconic garment par excellence, one which most recalls the style codes of the game of polo. Ours are always embellished with embroidery, crests and graphic designs which take us back to the exclusive world of polo competitions highlighting style and fair play. To celebrate the partnership with the Monte-Carlo Polo Club, next Spring you are going to propose a limited edition. What is the story behind it? How will it be distributed? The partnership with the Monte-Carlo Polo Club started in 2016 and it was renewed this year. U.S. Polo Assn. is the technical sponsor for the exclusive Monte-Carlo Polo Cup and made polo shirts for the riders of every participating team. As often happens in the brand’s history, we find that it is the sportsground which is the source of inspiration for the clothing collections and from this partnership came the idea for the Polo Special Tournament Limited Edition, a capsule which interprets sophisticated sportswear. The limited edition, comprised of a selection of four short-sleeved polo shirts, a
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wind-jacket and a gilet customizable with the double logos of Monte-Carlo Polo Club and U.S. Polo Assn., will be available in the brand’s stand-alone stores, in its corners and in a selection of multi-brand stores who already distribute U.S. Polo Assn. 2017 saw the opening of five new stand-alone stores. How important is the role of the stand-alone store, both from a commercial point of view and for the image of the brand? How do you choose suitable locations? The U.S. Polo Assn. retail project is getting wonderful signs of market appreciation, this confirms that the idea for the concept, thought up to give value to the display of the collections and by offering a one-of-a-kind shopping experience, does work. For our shop openings, we do favour the main shopping streets or large malls, which are ever stronger points of reference in contemporary shopping culture. Today, the collections for men, women, children, baby, underwear and beachwear have been completed with watches. Do you have new product types planned? How important is finding the right partner for them? Our partnerships come from a careful research process, from constructive dialogue and shared purpose. For us, finding the right partner is fundamental. In Europe, we are directly responsible for the clothing sector for U.S. Polo Assn, whilst for the watches we have an excellent partner, Eurotrade, a firstclass company, which has been operating for many years in the watches and jewellery sector. What are the next steps? We are looking towards the future with our usual optimism, continuing to invest in the project to be able to continue to grow and move forwards from what is now, our consolidated market share. •
Sketch of the Polo Special Tournament Limited Edition capsule collection, in partnership with the Monte-Carlo Polo Club
Cotton jersey polo shirt, U.S. Polo Assn. Men Fall Winter 2017
U.S. Polo Assn. Women Fall Winter 2017
U.S. Polo Assn. Men Fall Winter 2017
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TRADITION
PERFECTION IS A LUXURY Interview with Rodolfo Fagliano, who runs the prestigious maison Casa Fagliano, together with his sons and grandchildren. The most famous and luxurious polo boots maker the world is celebrating this year its 125th anniversary and launching its new collection of shoes and garments.
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t was in 1884, newly arrived from Italy, that Pedro and Giacomina Fagliano settled in the La Boca neighborhood of Buenos Aires but it was not until 1892 that they opened their workshop in the neighborhood of Hurlingham. Since then there have been ve generations of the family devoted to the art of handcrafted shoemaking. At present there is Rodolfo – still active, a whole life dedicated to his profession, his sons Eduardo and Hector, and his grandchildren, Germán and Lucas, who share the tasks in their store-workshop: the design, the precise delineation of the patterns, the cut of the skins – Cordobán, calf and buffalo, always tanned with extract of quebracho - the sewing of the different pieces - with a Durkopp machine that has been working for more than 100 years -the wood nish, the nailing and gluing of soles and heels, the personalized customer service all in the same store. We had the opportunity to ask him some questions. Casa Fagliano is the quintessential Italian, family-run business operating in Argentina. Do you and your family still feel a bond with the country your parents came from? Our trade is steeped in Italian tradition. It’s hard to dissociate from the roots of our ancestors. In the 1950s, we housed an Italian worker by the name of Eduardo Alighieri who eventually became part of the family. Until just a few months ago, we had Canio Genzano, who was also born in Italy, working with us. Yes, we do feel a deep bond with the old country even after more than a hundred years. How are duties and responsibilities distributed among the different members of your family? Even though we each have a specialty, we believe that it is good for business if everyone knows how to do everything. One generally starts learning the trade at a young age and learns how to do it all, and then depending on what each person most enjoys, specialises. I’ve worked in all areas: clicking, skiving, folding, closing, insole preparation, lasting... I have had some problems with my eyes lately, so I’m doing things that don’t require perfect vision but that need to be done.
Mascheroni Family, 1917
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TRADITION
The connection with polo started by chance in 1920 and then Casa Fagliano’s polo boots became a benchmark for excellence. Are you passionate about this sport? Do any family members play? That’s right. It began even earlier, when we did boot repair work for the players of the Hurlingham Club (established in 1888). We learned a lot about the sport and we love it. We have seen the evolution it has undergone over time and it’s always a pleasure to go watch a game. Today, I am partial to watching polo on TV: there are replays and numerous cameras giving you insights and details that you would otherwise miss. How does the Casa Fagliano boot buying experience work? First, we take measurements. Clients then choose the models and the designs they like best. Sometimes, they even send us their logo or a seal. We also select the leather we will be using and we set it aside. A few months later, if the client is close to our workshop, we arrange a fitting. If not, we carry on and ship the final product to the client’s country of residence. There’s a certain give and take in the process and the more a client participates the more say he or she will have in the design and the finishing details. You have a handsome list of illustrious customers. Can you name a few? Is there any curious anecdote that you would be willing to share? We are lucky to have worked with many reputable and prestigious personalities, but it’s not something we advertise and capitalise on; rather, we want clients who are interested in receiving good service and an excellent product, and not those who are simply looking to have what they’ve seen some famous person wear. Our workshop has welcomed Hollywood actors —Tommy Lee Jones, Will Smith—, musicians —Mike Rutherford—, royalty —Prince Harry, the Prince of Brunei, the Prince of Malaysia— as well as people who are well-known in Argentina. What are the differences between luxury and perfection? Luxury is something few people have access to and it usually goes hand in hand with price. However, material perfection implies careful and painstaking work by the artisan. Therefore, it’s fair to say that perfection is a luxury. Your family works on a single pair of shoes at a time. Can you describe the construction phases of your boots? That’s right. Today, I start cutting leather with the help of Eduardo or Héctor. Once we have cut out the pattern, Germán and Eduardo will start bordering, sewing and joining the different parts, what we call the cut. Then, Héctor will mount the cut atop the last to give it the same shape as the client’s foot. Héctor and Ruben are in charge of the lining, filling, soling, heeling and warping (the soles are painted and thermo-sealed using heated shoemaking irons). The last operation is polishing. This is a very important phase because we make sure everything is perfect. There is no final quality control process. Every person involved is responsible for making sure that everything works pristinely as the boot makes its way up the workshop ladder.
Where do you buy the materials? How do you choose them? They are all from Argentina. We have excellent raw materials, but you have to know where to find them. We have established longstanding relationships, based on trust with a few suppliers over time. This way, they guarantee top quality hides, soles, etc. Hide and sole selection is done in the tannery itself. Every piece is individually chosen. I often go myself with Eduardo or Héctor. It’s something I like to do and my vision still allows it. What, if any, is the equivalent of Casa Fagliano in other segments —apparel, jewelry, fragrances? I am not familiar with the history of every established benchmark in the luxury industry, so I can’t think of one now. Our traditional core business is a workshop that produces approximately 90+ pairs of bespoke boots a year. However, we are now fully invested in the internationalisation of our brand and new product lines through our newly established European partnership. What are your plans for the future? Casa Fagliano will continue to produce boots and everything polo. As I mentioned earlier, we have made great progress with our European partnership. The new generations of Casa Fagliano will contribute the same levels of craftsmanship and quality to its new shoes, ankle boots, jackets and other accessories while remaining fully committed to its traditional, core business.
EQUESTRIAN ILLUSTRATED
Lifestyle
42
OCTOBER 2017
RITES
MY NAME IS WHISKY Simon Paul Murat, Davide Terziotti and Fabio Petroni dedicate a book to the king of spirits.
T
o savour a whisky is to involve all of the human senses in doing so. It comes from the Gaelic uise beata, the water of life from which all our acquavitas derive, and refers to the therapeutic functions attributed to distilled spirits; but whisky is composed of its own history: Scottish Highlands, Holy distilleries custodians of ancient secrets, artists and lovers of life make up the frame of this liquid portrait. Stories, faces and dates, anecdotes and memories, investments and sacrifices, landscapes and visions, projects, flavours and fragrances, images consecrated to memory of unforgettable characters from a story. What is different therefore, is not only the economic capital but also the human, because as far as whisky is concerned not much would remain without the stories of the characters which My Name is Whisky intends to recount. What this book seeks to do, in over 650 bottle and 24 portraits, is to make tangible these elements which seep into each other and which above all take form and materialize in the people, guardians of time, of tradition and of the environment. People bring experience, innovation, and bear witness to the past in the guise of the memories and bottles they have kept safe. Whisky, and Scotch whisky of course, brings fascinating images and emotions with it: without the story, the people, the history and the territory, it would simply be a product like any other. “Conviviality for me is the key to drinking whisky. Sharing, offering hospitality, chinking glasses, tasting together and telling each other stories. Conviviality and socialising. Friendship and open hearts”, so says Tom Morton who has written the preface to the book. “Clearly, there is however an economic aspect, that is to say, once the bottle has been opened, its market value is markedly diminished”. Through the words and the profile photographs which are all so different from one another and all hailing from the panorama of whisky, we sought to bring together all of this whilst talking about all the other ingredients which are mixed with water, barley and yeast to give life to the golden liquid. Because, and not just as a figure of speech, it should be said that it is indeed “life” which is the intrinsic value of this distilled spirit and which makes it stand apart from all others.
Photos by Fabio Petroni
EQUESTRIAN ILLUSTRATED
Lifestyle43
OCTOBER 2017
RITES
Cover (Photo by Fabio Petroni)
EQUESTRIAN ILLUSTRATED
Data sheet
44
OCTOBER 2017
RIDERS
NORMA PAOLI Nationality: Italian | Date of Birth: July 18th 1975
Norma Paoli and Equitago Zandor CDI 3* Niece Norma Paoli and Equitago Zandor CDI 3* Niece
A
dressage rider based near Milan, she has run her own yard at Scuderie della Malaspina since 2013, and she is the official rider of the Equitago Stables.
Many experiences both national and international made her one of the most important Italian dressage riders:
CDI CDI CDI CDI CDI
W Mariakalnok in April 2017 3* Wiener Neustadt in April 2017 3* Stadl Paura in April 2017 3* Nice in February 2017 3* Roosendaal in December 2017
At these shows, she obtained the qualifications for the 2017 European Dressage Championships with the grand prix horse Equitago Zandor (Florencio X Nancy x Amulet). Also, the promising young horses gave her lots of satisfaction, such as the 6 year-old mare Lisara (by Lissaro X St. Moritz) who participated in the 2017 World Dressage Championships for Young Horses in Ermelo (NL), where Norma Paoli was the only Italian rider. The mare also distinguished herself in the Kappeln CDI for young horses with 87.4%.
EQUESTRIAN ILLUSTRATED
Norma Paoli with Equitago Zandor, CDI 3* Lier (Photo by Marta Fusetti)
Destination45
OCTOBER 2017
ADDRESSES
SWITZERLAND • Stay
in Style •
• Swiss
Great architecture and contemporary interior design mark out the 47 Design & Lifestyle Hotels.
Deluxe Hotels •
But this eye for fine detail is not just expressed in the interior: equally impressive cuisine and, in
The pinnacle of Swiss hospitality
many cases, a unique location, complement the experience in authentic style. Precious materials,
From a listed Grand Hotel in Engadine to a spectacular edifice, designed by star architect
carefully selected details and a clear creative intent mark out the Design & Lifestyle Hotels. In
Mario Botta and a venerable Art Nouveau palace on the shores of Lake Geneva, the Swiss
the heart of the old town or on top of a mountain, all 47 hotels certified by Switzerland Tourism
Deluxe Hotels are the pride and joy of Swiss hospitality. Experience the ultimate in luxury,
combine aesthetic appeal with heartfelt service.
prestige and top-flight service! Take an afternoon tea with a view of the Rhine, enjoy a
www.MySwitzerland.com/designlifestyle
massage among the fantastic architecture of delicate sails, select your favourite wine from a list of 2.600 fine vintages or jump straight into the water from the private beach. At the Swiss Deluxe Hotels, the 41 most exclusive and luxurious lodgings in Switzerland, guests experience the very best that life has to offer.
www.MySwitzerland.com/deluxe
Pullman Basel Europe Pullman stands for bright rooms featuring contemporary design
Grand Hotel Kronenhof The trip to Engadin is worth it alone for a stay at this
twinned with a range of exciting features. This winning formula also sets the tone at Pullman’s first
sumptuous grand hotel. Not only its architecture is striking, the 2000 square metres Spa
Swiss hotel in Basel. Connectivity panels bring the world onto the room’s HD monitor; there are
and the award-winning gourmet restaurant impress too. And there’s plenty to amuse
also laptop safes, beds with special Pullman foam pillows, a roof garden and and superb cuisine at
families, be it the Krönchen Kids Club, the children’s restaurant, or the pool with its slide
Les Quatre Saisons, with 18 GaultMillau points.
and water games, there’s non-stop action for our little guests.
Clarastrasse 43, 4058 Basel +41 616908080 www.pullman-basel-europe.com
Via Maistra 130, 7504 Pontresina +41 818303030 www.kronenhof.com
Romantik & Boutique-Hotel GuardaVal The first Romantik & Boutique-Hotel in the lower Engadin valley stands in the historic heart of Scuol, enjoying glorious views of the mountains. The 36 individually designed rooms of the 400 year old building combine traditional
Engadin
architecture,
fresh
colours, high quality materials and modern design features, to create a uniquely relaxing atmosphere. A passageway links the boutique
Hotel Eden Roc Luxurious rooms with Mediterranien charm await guests at
hotel with Scuol’s Engadin Baths and with the Vita Nova spa of the Hotel Belvédère.
the Hotel Eden Roc, located directly on the shores of Lake Maggiore, within walking distance of Ascona’s picturesque piazza. Enjoy the beautiful garden, the private beach
Vi 383, 7550 Scuol +41 818610909 www.guardaval-scuol.ch
and landing stage, with its water sports facilities and the 2.000 square meters Spa. The four restaurants enchant with culinary delight. Via Albarelle 16, 6612 Ascona +41 917857171 www.edenroc.ch
The Chedi Andermatt Behind the restrained, alpine-style facade, the interiors of the Chedi are an Asian-inspired feast for the senses. Designed by the architect Jean-Michel Gathy in 2013, Andermatt’s temple of luxury showcases the finest materials throughout. Suites boast open fires, two restaurants combine the best from Europe and Asia, and the spacious Spa & Health Club (2.400 sqare meters) promises the ultimate in blissful relaxation. Gotthardstrasse 4, 6490 Andermatt +41 418887488 www.thechediandermatt.com
The Dolder Grand The Dolder Grand is the perfect environment for people who are looking for pleasure, exclusivity and relaxation: 176 rooms and suites, exquisite cuisine, a Spa covering 4.000 square meters, generous banqueting and seminar facilities, plus a remarkable art collection. The hotel’s elevated location provides a magnificient view of the city of Zurich, the lake and the Alps. Kurhausstrasse 65, 8032 Zürich +41 444566000 www.thedoldergrand.com
EQUESTRIAN ILLUSTRATED
Legal Corner
46
OCTOBER 2017
CONSULTANCY
THE YOUNG RIDERS ACADEMY:
A SPECIAL CHALLENGE FOR FUTURE TOP RIDERS BY GIUSEPPE BIANCHI (GBLAW.MI@TIN.IT)
S
itting on the Athenaeum Board, I was so lucky to share in the young Riders Academy project from the beginning. What struck me at first was the selected riders awareness that they were to be part of a totally new project for the equestrian sport. They immediately realized that our sport is evolving very fast and athletes must become self-managers to achieve their ambitions. On top of six months of training and boarding at a well-known professional stable, with no costs, the program also includes: professional education in communication, business and economics, veterinary and legal practice, all of which are connected to show jumping. It is important to stress that the law can affect the present and the future of a rider under different aspects. The FEI Legal System is enforced through an administrative proceeding, which provides that “all Athletes, Owners, Support Personnel and any other person taking part or benefiting from FEI activities accept this legal System and its dispute resolution mechanism (which includes an Appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport as final and binding arbitration) as a condition precedent to participation in FEI activities and/or to receiving any benefit from FEI activities” (art. 157 § 3 of the General Regulations). The practical consequence of this rule is that, if a rider wants to participate to a FEI recognized show, he automatically accepts the FEI Legal System as a “condition” to have his inscription accepted. The key characteristic of the FEI Legal System is the provision of “penalties and sanctions”, which can be imposed on the riders (see art. 159 of the GRs). In the case of an alleged anti-doping violation, the sanction can be a period of rider ineligibility for up to two years. The imposition of each penalty and sanction has a direct impact on the rider’s legal status because he must accept subsequent limitations to his activity; such as: his right to participate at shows; to teach his pupils; or to hold public office either in his National Federation or in International Bodies. A rider was charged with an anti-doping violation, due to a mistake made by his groom who, after many years of buying the right one, pulled the wrong tube of ointment off the shelf due to a similarity in packaging. This was genuinely a freak occurrence but, because of the positive finding of a prohibited substance in the horse’s blood, the FEI Legal Department had enough evidence to open a case. A rider is also held responsible in a case in which he gives evidence that the banned or controlled medication substance comes from a mis-labelled or contaminated supplement. The rider’s liability, which stands even in the case of the supplement being administered by his vet or member of support personnel, is based on article 10.4 of the Equine Anti-doping and Controlled Medication Regulations. Over the past few years, a significant number of positive tests have been attributed to mislabelled or contaminated supplements, or to flowers contained in the hay given to the horse during a show. The high quality of the selected riders was due to the great help given to a young Riders Academy project from all the National Federations. Throughout the selection phases, it has become evident that there is a gap between the candidates coming from the traditionally strong European countries and the ones coming from Central and Eastern Europe. This difference is present not only in riding skills, but also in the capacity of the rider to think of himself as an individual company operating in different countries. In the coming years, the young Riders Academy project will spread the idea all across Europe that a top rider must be able to manage his stable, knowing at all times if the stable is earning or losing money, just like a manager leading his company business. To be manager, a rider must know about the relevant employment legislation if he has employees. Modern international show jumping is a cross border activity,
which presupposes attendance at shows organized by different countries around the world. As a consequence of this, international riders must respect different laws applied under different legal jurisdictions. To organize a brilliant career, a rider must focus great attention on his relationship with the horse’s owner, including the insurance for civil liability of the horse, both when the horse is in the stable and when it is around the world for shows. A contract between owner and rider should also cover a correct and clear breakdown of the financial agreement between the parties. In the case of the rider taking care of a young horse with good potential, the contract between the parties should also provide the rider with the right to receive a percentage of the sale price in the case of the horse being sold. This provision should avoid a potential lawsuit filed by the rider against the owner, claiming that he has the right to receive a percentage of the price paid for the horse because he was able to improve the horse’s skills to a very high level. All the previous examples show how much the figure of the professional rider has changed since the past and the young Riders Academy is trying to help to build a completely different background for the riders of the new millennium.
EQUESTRIAN ILLUSTRATED
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Salento
Via Tivoli 6, Milano
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