Hong Kong selected for Asia's first five-star show jumping event

The world's top 25 elite show jumpers and their horses, including Olympic Champion, Eric Lamaze and European Champion, Kevin Staut, along with Hong Kong representatives, will gather in Hong Kong to showcase the elegance and splendor of these impressive animals at their very best, whilst competing for a prize of USD 1 million (approx. HKD 7.8 million).

Past European Masters have attracted over 50,000 people each, including the likes of Charlotte Casiraghi, Princess of Monaco and esteemed President of Gucci, Mr Patrizio Di Marco.

As part of a jam packed itinerary, Hong Kong Masters will introduce one of the longest serving three-star Michelin chefs to the island, Juan Mari Arzak, who has held his title since 1989 and will prepare an unrivalled dining experience for VIPs within the 'Prestige Village.' A place for attendees to get up close and personal with the horses, socialites, horse enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike, Hong Kong Masters will prove a distinct social opportunity in Hong Kong, complete with fine dining, shopping and entertainment.

With Hong Kong Equestrian Federation as co-organiser, combined with the avid support of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, Hong Kong Jockey Club and the Hong Kong Masters Ambassador, Kevin Yeung, Member of the Board & Fund Raising Chairman, United Nations World Food Programme Hong Kong, this CSI5* accredited show jumping event is set to become Asia's signature, annual sporting affair with a distinct social and community air.

Juan Dedeu, President of Hong Kong Masters, said "We genuinely believe an event like the Hong Kong Masters should be held in a country where there is a strong tradition of horse riding. As the getaway to Asia, Hong Kong provides a unique mix of both local and international society where you can be making a multimillion deal one day at a coffee shop and the next at a world renowned restaurant. We hope that the Hong Kong community will embrace the Hong Kong Masters and help transform equestrian as an international sporting and social entertainment experience for everyone."

"Building on our nine years of experience and through expanding our European expertise, Hong Kong Masters will become a part of a growing and highly distinguished legacy."

Recognized by the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), Hong Kong Masters is the newest member to the Masters, which comprises of Paris since 2009, Hong Kong starting in 2012 and New York starting in 2013.

Furthermore, the Hong Kong Masters will show a strong commitment to the Riding for the Disabled charity. A first for the Masters, raised donations will be a key driving success factor in 2012.

Dr. Simon Ip, President of Hong Kong Equestrian Federation, adds "Equestrian sports hold worldwide recognition. We are extremely excited that show jumping is being further promoted in Hong Kong, following the city's hosting of the Beijing 2008 Olympics Equestrian. We are honored to support this special occasion, and look forward to welcoming the world's top elite riders and their magnificent horses to Hong Kong."

The first sports meets social event in the region, the inaugural Hong Kong Masters will be a sleek combination of the most prestigious and graceful of equestrian sports, with an essence of sophistication and Hong Kong lifestyle, and will ultimately cement Hong Kong's position on the global equestrian map.