The ECCO FEI European Championships in jumping, dressage and para-dressage in Denmark this week have pushed the limits of staging equestrian events, engaging partners, involving sponsors, producing TV-coverage and creating an outstanding set up for world class results.
For the first time ever the FEI European Championships in jumping, dressage and para-dressage have been staged simultaneously. The local football stadium was transformed into an impressing and top modern equestrian venue and the feedback from all parties was extremely positive:
Quotes:
-It’s a great event. I understand the riders are very satisfied too. For example is the footing absolutely perfect. Personally, it has of course been a great experience to see my own daughter Nathalie riding on home ground with a nice 5th place as her best result. I would like to compliment European-Herning, the City of Herning, Sport Event Denmark and the Danish Equestrian Federation for a very successful event and also thank the many volunteers, said Her Royal Highness Princess Benedikte, who is the patron of the ECCO FEI European Championships in jumping, dressage and para-dressage.
– We have had fantastic European Championships here in Herning and, on behalf of the FEI, I would like to thank the organisers and the Danish National Federation for putting on an incredible event, and of course we also have to thank the amazing volunteer workforce who have done such a fabulous job throughout the week, says Ingmar De Vos, FEI Secretary General and continues:
-It was really wonderful to have the Para-Dressage integrated into the Dressage and Jumping Championships for the first time at European level and the Herning organisers have now set the template for future Championships. And of course we have to thank all the riders and horses, who have produced absolutely top sport this week. It has been truly memorable Championships and we owe a huge debt of gratitude to the Danish people for the warmth of their welcome. Thank you Denmark!,
-It’s hard to get your arms down right now. These championships have surpassed our wildest dreams. We had a world class set-up and the volunteers were outstanding. FEI has expressed their great satisfaction with the event with the VIP and sponsor set-up and the festive market place next to the venues. Without the professional help of Sport Event Denmark, the city of Herning and the Danish Equestrian Federation, I could not stand here with my arms in the air, says Jens Trabjerg, European-Herning who is the organiser of the ECCO FEI European Championships in jumping, dressage and para-dressage.
-No less than one of the best sporting events in Denmark. World class sport, full house, massive direct live TV, royal participation and top grades to the best European championships ever from the International Equestrian Federation – it’s fantastic, says Lars Lundov, CEO, Sport Event Denmark, that partners the event together with the City of Herning and the Danish Equestrian Federation.
– I am very proud of the response both Herning and the oganisers get on this event. When the international equestrian federation name these championships “the best ever” it doesn’t get much better. Furthermore I am satisfied with Herning once again getting the opportunity to show our flexiblility and our football stadium transformed into a perfect arena for a world class equestrian event as well, says Mayor of Herning, Lars Krarup.
-With the ECCO FEI European Championships in jumping, dressage and para-dressage equestrian has got a huge recognition and attention both internationally and within Denmark. Herning has been the right choice as host city. And without the involvement from the city of Herning and Sport Event Denmark, we could not have managed. European-Herning really has proven its format as an event organiser, says Ulf Helgstrand president of the Danish Equestrian Federation, and adds: Without Sport Event Denmark, we cannot allow ourselves to dream of new big equestrian events in Denmark, and we should follow up on this success in regards to events and our clubs.
FACTS:
• During the six days 61,500 people have been visiting the event
• 465 show horses
• 331 competing riders from 32 nations
• 318 grooms
• 3,500 accredited participants including horse owners, riders
• 100 officials
• 450 volunteers from all over the country
• 400 journalists
• 90 photographers
