CHIO Aachen: More Than an International Horse Show

Where Can You Watch CHIO Aachen Live?

The World Equestrian Festival can be streamed LIVE on ClipMyHorse.TV from June 28 to July 7, 2024. Don't miss the pinnacle of equestrian sport. 

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The history of the CHIO Aachen

CHIO Aachen ignites strong emotions amongst equestrians. Its deeply rooted history boasts elite equestrian excellence since 1898. Large crowds gather in awe of the skills being presented by both horses and riders. This electric crowd is united for a love of horses, just as CHIO Aachen was during its initial introduction in Germany.

It all started when the equestrian community of Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein gathered to showcase their horses. People from all walks of life brought their horses and presented the skills they had developed. Whether it be ranchers, factory workers, or riding instructors, everyone had an opportunity to display their horsemanship. This tradition carried on for many years and grew in popularity as each year went by.

It wasn’t until the 1920s that the competition was moved to its present location in Soers. This was when the competition got stronger, and they hosted their first “riding and driving” competition. About 20,000 spectators witnessed this historic event, and the new CHIO Aachen site was off to an incredible start.  

In 1927, they hosted the first-ever Nations’ Cup and the era of Concours Hippique International Officiel began. CHIO, means that there is more than one discipline at the competition. Hence, riders of other disciplines such as Eventing, Driving, Vaulting, Show Jumping and Dressage participate in the prestigious competitions in Aachen, Germany. The thrilling horsemanship pulled on the heartstrings of both spectators and athletes, and by 1938 the location hosted 120,000 guests from all around the region. The tradition had grown so vast, that by this time there were 50 competitions with 600 horses competing at this new equestrian gathering.  

As time went on, riders found immense success at CHIO Aachen, bringing tears, celebrations, and inspiration to equestrians around the world. The atmosphere leaves a lasting impression on not just spectators and athletes, but the entire equestrian community.  

As German showjumping legend Hans Günter Winkler once said, , “Aachen was my equestrian homeland. I was lucky enough to be able to achieve great victories there.”  

Already in the early 1950s, show jumping was in full swing and athletes from all over the world dreamed of winning the World Championships. When eventing and vaulting were integrated into the CHIO Aachen, the competition became bigger every year.

Then came the World Equestrian Games which arrived in Aachen in 2006. Seven disciplines were represented in the elite competition: Showjumping, dressage, driving, eventing, vaulting, endurance, and reining. The competition shaped how the world perceives equestrian sports, with 1.6 billion television viewers watching the action unfold. Preceding the World Equestrian Games was the FEI European Championships, increasing the recognition of CHIO Aachen even further.  

To this day, the CHIO Aachen is one of the biggest annual highlights of top-class equestrian sport. Its very nature attracts horses, riders and spectators from all over the world to celebrate first-class equestrianism. From June 28th to July 7th, 2024, it will be that time again: the World Equestrian Festival at the CHIO Aachen will make history.

The five disciplines at CHIO Aachen

The CHIO Aachen features competitions in five different equestrian disciplines: Show jumping, dressage, eventing, driving, and vaulting. It is one of the few events that combines such a diverse range of equestrian sports, attracting top riders, drivers, and vaulters from around the world.

Aachen is a must-see for every horse enthusiast, the event serves every equestrian addicted to English riding. With several classes in each of the respective disciplines, visitors and viewers of the CHIO Aachen mark this event in their calendar. The international competition draws participants from all over the globe, including Olympic and World champions. The event is known for its high level of competition and serves as a platform for athletes to showcase their skills and compete against the best in the world.

The CHIO Aachen takes place at the iconic Soers Equestrian Stadium in Aachen, which can accommodate tens of thousands of spectators. The stadium provides a unique and electric atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience for both riders and spectators. The venue also offers excellent facilities and infrastructure for all the disciplines.

Dressage CHIO Aachen

The dressage competitions at the CHIO Aachen are a prominent part of the tournament and show the highest level of horsemanship and precision in this discipline. Here you can find some important information about the dressage competitions at the CHIO Aachen:

CDIO format

The dressage competitions at the CHIO Aachen are held in the CDIO format, which stands for "Concours Dressage International Officiel". The CDIO is a team competition in which the riders represent their nations. Each team consists of three to four riders whose results are included in the overall standings. The CDIO format adds a team dynamic to the dressage competition and fosters national pride and camaraderie among the riders.

Grand Prix, Grand Prix Special and Grand Prix Freestyle

The dressage competitions at CHIO Aachen primarily revolve around the Grand Prix and Grand Prix Special tests. The Grand Prix test is the initial qualifying round, where riders perform a set series of movements, including various gaits, transitions, and dressage movements. The Grand Prix Special is a more demanding test that features additional movements and requires even higher levels of skill and precision. Additionally, there is also a Grand Prix Freestyle test, where viewers can expect high level dressage performances in harmony to Music chosen by the rider.  

Some riders who have successfully completed and won the Grand Prix are:

Dressage Grand Prix winner 

• Carl Hester (Great Britain) - Carl Hester, a successful British dressage rider, has taken victories in the Dressage Grand Prix at the CHIO Aachen with horses such as Uthopia and Nip Tuck.
• Helen Langehanenberg (Germany) - The German dressage rider Helen Langehanenberg is successful with her famous horse Damon Hill in the Grand Prix of Dressage at the CHIO Aachen.
• Isabell Wer th (Germany) - Isabell Werth, one of the most successful dressage riders in history, has achieved numerous victories at the CHIO Aachen. With various horses, including Weihegold OLD and Bella Rose, she has won the Dressage Grand Prix several times.
• Anky van Grunsven (Netherlands) - Anky van Grunsven, another renowned dressage rider, has already been successful at the CHIO Aachen. With horses like Salinero and Bonfire she has already achieved victories in the Dressage Grand Prix.

Dressage Grand Prix Special Winner

• Matthias Alexander Rath (Germany) - Matthias Alexander Rath won the Dressage Grand Prix Special at the CHIO Aachen on Totilas, the legendary dressage horse known for his record-breaking performances.
• Beatriz Ferrer-Salat (Spain) - The Spanish dressage rider Beatriz Ferrer-Salat has won the Dressage Grand Prix at the CHIO Aachen with her horse Delgado.
• Edward Gal (Netherlands) - Dutch dressage rider Edward Gal has won the Dressage Grand Prix Special a few times as part of the Dutch team.
• Charlotte Dujardin (Great Britain) - Olympic gold medalist and world record holder Charlotte Dujardin was successful in the Dressage Grand Prix Special at the CHIO Aachen. She has achieved victories with horses such as Valegro and Mount St John Freestyle.

*Please note that this list only represents a few examples of notable winners. There are numerous other talented riders who have been successful in Dressage Grand Prix and Grand Prix Special at the CHIO Aachen over the years. 

Prize of the Nations

The dressage team competition at the CHIO Aachen is known as the "Prize of Nations". It is a highly prestigious and coveted title in dressage. The nations compete against each other and the team with the highest total score from Grand Prix and Grand Prix Special emerges as the winner. The Prize of Nations adds an exciting element to the dressage competitions and shows the strength of the different equestrian nations. 

Which Teams Won the Nations Cup in Aachen?

Germany

The German dressage team was very successful at the CHIO Aachen and won the Nations' Cup several times. But when and with whom in the team could the German dressage team secure the victory in Aachen?

2021 with Jessica von Bredow Werndl, Carina Scholz, Frederic Wandres & Isabell Werth

2019 with Helen Langenhanenberg, Jessica von Bredow-Werndl, Dorothee Schneider & Isabell Werth

2018 with Helen Langenhanenberg, Jessica von Bredow-Werndl, Dorothee Schneider & Isabell Werth

2017 with Dorothee Schneider, Hubertus Schmidt, Sönke Rothenberger & Isabell Werth

2016 with Sönke Rothenberger, Dorothee Schneider, Isabell Werth & Kristina Böring-Sprehe

2015 with Hubertus Schmidt, Isabell Werth, Jessica von Bredow-Werndl & Kristina Böring-Sprehe

2014 with Kristina Sprehe, Isabell Werth, Matthias Alexander Rath & Helen Langenhanenberg

2013 with Fabienne Lütkemeier, Isabell Werth, Anabel Balkenhol & Helen Langenhanenberg

2012 with Dorothee Schneider, Anabel Balkenhol, Kristina Sprehe, Helen Langenhanenberg

2011 with Anabel Balkenhol, Christoph Koschel, Isabell Werth, Matthias Alexander Rath

In total, Germany was able to defend its title 10 years in a row. In addition, the German team also secured victory from 1977 to 2004.

Netherlands 

The Dutch dressage team has also achieved significant success at CHIO Aachen, securing several victories in the Prize of Nations. Notable victories include:

2010: with Adelinde Cornelissen, Edward Gal, Imke Schellekens-Bartels

2009 with Sander van Marijnissen, Marlies van Baalen, Anky van Grunsven, Hans Peter Minderhout

2005: Kirsten Beckers, Laurens van Lieren, Edward Gal, Anky van Grunsven

Denmark

The Danish dressage team has also been successful at CHIO Aachen, winning the Nations Cup in 2022. Nanna Skodborg-Merrald, Daniel Bachmann Andersen, Carina Cassøe Krüth and Cathrine Dufour were the riders of the winning team in the 2022 edition of the Nations Cup of Aachen.

Top Riders and Horses

The dressage competitions at CHIO Aachen attract some of the best riders and horses from around the world. Olympic champions, World Cup winners, and renowned dressage athletes participate in the event, bringing their exceptional skills and finely trained horses to the arena. Spectators have the opportunity to witness awe-inspiring performances and witness the harmony between rider and horse.

Dressage Stadium

The dressage competitions take place in the Deutsche Bank Stadium, a magnificent arena within the CHIO Aachen venue. The stadium offers excellent viewing facilities, ensuring that spectators can observe the intricate details of the dressage tests. The stadium provides a fitting backdrop for the elegant and precise movements displayed by the dressage horses and riders.

Horse & Symphony

As a special highlight, the dressage competitions are accompanied by "Horse & Symphony" held in the Main Stadium. Horse & Symphony is a dazzling showcase that features artistic and choreographed dressage performances set to music. It provides a unique blend of sport and entertainment, captivating the audience with its beauty and creativity.

The dressage competitions at CHIO Aachen epitomize the highest level of technical skill, harmony, and elegance in the discipline. They offer a platform for top riders and horses to demonstrate their expertise, and the Nation's Cup format adds an exciting element of national competition. Combined with the stunning venue and the captivating Horse & Symphony performances, the dressage competitions at CHIO Aachen are an extraordinary experience for both participants and spectators alike.

Show jumping CHIO Aachen

There is something special for everyone in the world of showjumping at CHIO Aachen. Elite riders from around the world gather to compete at one of the world's most prestigious competitions in Aachen. These competitions include: The Mercedes-Benz Nations´ Cup, VBR-Prize, STAWAG-Prize, and much more! Lastly, showjumping legends will strive for victory in the coveted Grand Prix of Aachen, a part of the Rolex Grand Slam.  

The Grand Prix of Aachen

Meant to recognize the most elite show-jumping athletes in the world, four renowned equestrian venues from around the world host the Rolex Grand Slam, in search of true excellence.  

Beginning in 2013, the Rolex Grand Slam launched a circuit that would reward the athlete that wins three consecutive competitions at four of the world’s most respected shows: The Dutch Masters, the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’, the CHIO Aachen and the CHI Geneva. Totaling Five million dollars, this is a series that every athlete dreams of winning. Additionally, if one person wins the final Grand Prix at three of the four tournaments consecutively, they win the Rolex Grand Slam and an additional one million dollars in prize money.  

The success is more than the prize, with only one rider, Britain’s Scott Brash, ever winning the Rolex Grand Slam, a victory in this circuit is legendary.  

Winner of the Grand Prix of Aachen

Here are some of the great winners since 2013 who have won the Grand Prix of Aachen:

2023: Marcus Ehning (GER), Stargold, CHIO Aachen

2022: Gerrit Nieberg (GER), Ben 431, CHIO Aachen

2021: Daniel Deusser (GER), Killer Queen VDM, CHIO Aachen

2019: Kent Farrington (USA), Gazelle, CHIO Aachen

2018: Marcus Ehning (GER), Prêt à Tout, CHIO Aachen

2017: Grégory Wathelet (BEL), Corée, CHIO Aachen

2016: Philipp Weishaupt (GER), LB Convall, CHIO Aachen

2015: Scott Brash (GBR), Hello Sanctos, CHIO Aachen. Scott Brash was the first to ever win the Rolex Grand Slam after taking three consecutive victories in the Rolex Grand Prix.

2014: Christian Ahlmann (GER), Codex One, CHIO Aachen 

2013: Nick Skelton (GBR), Big Star, CHIO Aachen 

Mercedes-Benz Nations Cup

Riders compete in teams of four in hopes of winning the Mercedes-Benz Nations’ Cup, where they compete in two identical rounds. All eight teams qualify for the second round and the team with the lowest amount of penalties combined wins. If teams tie in penalties, they will compete in a jump-off where one rider from each team will compete for first place.  

The most recent winners of the CHIO Aachen Mercedes-Benz Nations’ Cup was Team Germany in 2022, consisting of Jana Wargers, Christian Kukuk, Janne Friederike Meyer-Zimmermann, and Andre Thieme.

There is something for all show-jumping lovers to enjoy, and it can all be found at the World Equestrian Festival at CHIO Aachen, where legends meet!

Eventing CHIO Aachen

This action-packed event spans over the course of two days, where combinations compete in dressage, jumping, and the thrilling cross-country course. Riders have an overall score, which fluctuates based on their performance in each section. After each pair has crossed the final finish line, the overall victor is finally announced. Not knowing the true champion till the entire competition is over keeps spectators on the edge of their seats! The SAP Cup features riders from around the world, including World Champions and Olympians, gathering to compete in this honorable competition. 

This competition will truly put horses and riders to the test, challenging them in the three disciplines to discover an overall champion. Some previous competitors include:

• Tamie Smith and Mai Baum
• Will Coleman and Off The Record
• Ariel Grald and Leamore Master Plan
• Lauren Nicholson and Vermiculus
• Ingrid Klimke and Hale Bob OLD
• Julia Krajewski and Chipmunk FRH
• Christopher Burton and Underdiscussion
• Andrew Nicholson and Nereo
• Frank Ostholt and Air Jordan

and of course the winner of 2022 Sandra Auffarth (GER) with Viamant du Matz, who rides for Team Germany.

Dressage Test

The scores of the three judges are shown as an average score in percentage from 100%. After that the percentage score is transformed into penalties to be able to combine the dressage score with the penalties from jumping and cross-country.

The penalty score is calculated as follows: (Percentage score – 100) x 1.5

Jumping Competition

Jumping up to 1.25m, horse and rider combinations will face eleven to twelve obstacles in a race against time and accumulation of penalties. The penalties from dressage and jumping are combined and determine the starting order in the cross-country test. The top 20 riders will start last. All other combinations have the same starting order as in dressage and jumping.

Cross Country Test

The showdown begins on Saturday morning, where a true test of endurance and strength collides in order to determine the ultimate victor. With a length of max. 3990 meters, competitors will face about 25 obstacles (35 jumping efforts) with a speed of 570m/min. in order to be successful. At the end of it all, the winner will be determined.

Vaulting CHIO Aachen

At the CVIO Aachen, equestrian vaulting takes center stage, captivating spectators with its unique combination of grace, athleticism, and equestrian partnership. The event showcases vaulters competing in individual classifications, pas de deux (pairs), and team classifications, all demonstrating their extraordinary acrobatic abilities and profound connection with the horse.

With a rich history spanning several decades, the CVIO Aachen has witnessed numerous remarkable performances from talented vaulters across the world. In the individual classifications, past 3-star champions have left an indelible mark on the sport. These champions have pushed the boundaries of what is possible in vaulting and have achieved exceptional levels of technical precision and artistic expression.

In the pas de deux category, previous 3-star champions have showcased the seamless coordination and synchronization that comes from years of practice and shared dedication. Their performances have captivated audiences, highlighting the remarkable trust and harmony between the two vaulters and their equine partner.

The team classifications at CVIO Aachen have also witnessed remarkable displays of teamwork, precision, and creativity. Past 3-star champions have showcased their ability to work together seamlessly, performing intricate and awe-inspiring routines with multiple vaulters on the horse at the same time. These performances are a testament to the skill, discipline, and unity of the entire team.

The competition at CVIO Aachen includes a variety of tests that challenge vaulters to showcase their abilities in different ways. The Compulsory tests require vaulters to execute specific movements and exercises, emphasizing technical mastery and precision. These tests serve as a foundation for the more creative and expressive Freestyle tests, where vaulters have the opportunity to choreograph their routines and incorporate their own artistic flair.

The CVIO Aachen has become a prestigious event in the equestrian vaulting calendar, attracting top athletes from around the world. It provides a platform for vaulters to demonstrate their talent, passion, and dedication to the sport. The competition not only showcases the exceptional athleticism of the participants but also celebrates the profound bond between the vaulters, the horse, and the artistry of their performances.

Watch as vaulters effortlessly dance with their horses and partners, leaving the crowds and judges in awe.

Driving CHIO Aachen

The four-in-hand driving discipline keeps spectators on the edge of their seats! Between the dressage test and the marathon in both individual and team settings, spectators are exploding with excitement to reveal the victors.

Drivers will experience a series of obstacles as they approach the finish line, intending to be both quick and clear to have the best shot of being named individual or team champion. These include the following classes:

• Prize of Martello Immobilienmanagement GmbH & Co. KG (Dressage competition for four-in-hand drivers, Individual & Team)
• Prize of Fa. Horsch, Der Entsorger "Top Score" (Obstacle driving competition for four-in-hand drivers)
• Prize of schwartz Group (Marathon driving competition for four-in-hand drivers, Individual & Team)
• Prize of Event Rent GmbH (Obstacle driving competition with winning round)

By the end of the overall competition on sunday, the prize giving ceremonies will be held for the individual classification and team classification. The individual competitor points will be totaled and count towards the Prize of Family Richard Talbot to award an overall champion. For the Boehringer Ingelheim Nations‘ Cup, the team competition, the two top results from the team of three will be counted towards the final team score.

• 2022: Boyd Excell of Australia won the Prize of Family Richard Talbot
• 2022: The Netherlands Team won the Boehringer Ingelheim Nations‘ Cup

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