The History of the Longines Global Champions Tour of Valkenswaard

The Longines Global Champions Tour of Valkenswaard is one of the most prestigious events in the world of show jumping, held annually in the picturesque Dutch town of Valkenswaard. Established in 2006, the tour was founded by Jan Tops, a champion show jumper and a prominent figure in equestrian sports, with the aim of creating a high-caliber global circuit for show jumping.

Valkenswaard, often regarded as the home of the LGCT, is not just another stop on the tour—it's a venue with deep significance. The event takes place at the Longines Tops International Arena, a state-of-the-art purpose-built equestrian facility created by Jan Tops himself. The venue is renowned for its expansive grass arena, world-class stabling, and premium facilities, offering both riders and horses an unparalleled experience.

Over the years, Valkenswaard has become a key fixture on the LGCT calendar, attracting the world’s top riders and horses. The event has witnessed incredible performances, with some of the sport's biggest names competing for significant prize money and coveted championship points. Seasoned champions like Laura Kraut and Maikel van der Vleuten have hoisted the trophy in Valkenswaard as well as young guns like Dutch talent Sanne Thijssen. The competition's high level of difficulty, combined with the beautiful setting of Valkenswaard, has solidified its reputation as a must-see event in the equestrian world.

The LGCT of Valkenswaard is more than just a competition; it represents the pinnacle of show jumping excellence. Its long history and the commitment to high standards have cemented its place as a flagship event in the global equestrian calendar, continuing to draw large crowds and global attention year after year.

Join us for the LGCT of Valkenswaard August 23-25, 2024. Click here to buy tickets.