The war raging in the Ukraine in the middle of the European continent, which has caused so much suffering and hardship in a very short time, the great number of fleeing mothers with their children and pets welcomed with open arms by many European countries, the increase in living costs as a result of inflation, the trade wars of the great powers that have weakened economic systems worldwide, the never-ending famine in many parts of the world, and last but not least the advancing climate crisis and human rights abuses. There is no lack of bad news. Many horse owners are no longer able to afford their horses, so that these abandoned animals are put into “horse boarding” accommodations. The herpes virus that broke out in 2021 in Valencia caused the death of many horses in 13 European countries. We want to banish the thoughts of all these negative incidents briefly – at least during the show weekend – and concentrate fully on the dressage sport and the wonderful rides of the world’s top equestrians.

As spectators you will be able to follow not only the rides of world-class riders, but also the “elder generation” of riders, who still have a great deal of fun and joy taking part in this CDI. In a separate “above 60” competition, only riders from the age of 60 onwards are entitled to participate. You will see how the sport of riding keeps them in shape – even 80 year-old riders are able to pit themselves against riders some 20 years younger. They also will compete in a GP and GP-Freestyle.

This year we will dispense with the concert in the indoor arena and the festivities on Saturday evening. A smaller tent will be provided for gastronomy facilities. Only an “evening in honour of the dressage riders” will take place.

Despite the general cost-cutting measures in many firms we were able to motivate sponsors to support our tournament financially, and for this we are very grateful.

Our long-standing friend Klaus Phillip, who was able to celebrate his 90th birthday this year and who enthralled us for many years with his horse portraits, will for the first time unfortunately not be attending our event. The Tyrolean artist Elmar Peintner, who enjoys an international reputation, will be presenting a selection of his works.

Under no circumstances were we willing to do without the long-standing tradition of the “owner with hat with and without dog” competition. Many visitors with original and usually self-crafted hats look forward to their appearance on Sunday at noontime. The Tyrolean Jasmin Lindner, acclaimed as the world’s best female vaulter (acrobat on horseback) of all time, together with her partner Lukas Wacha, will be giving a sample of their proficiency in a freestyle music event.

As has been the case every year, the proceeds from the admission tickets and voluntary donations will be given in equal measure to the organisations Therapeutic Riding and Vaulting” and “Riding For Handicapped Persons”. Even though you may have free admission, we request that you make a small donation, because every Euro counts.

Possible new CORONA stipulations – in the event that they become necessary – will be promptly publicised at the entrance gate.

For those who are unable to come to Schindlhof there is still the possibility to follow the tournament rides via “ClipMyHorse.TV”.

We wish all visitors a relaxing weekend and all participants “Good luck!” in our 26th Manfred & Hilde Swarovski Memorial Show.