The Derby of La Baule is part of equestrian sports heritage. Especially because it is registered at the prestigious “Officiel de France” (CSIO 5*). Outdoor jumping event, the Derby has a particular place in the heart of local public. As a proof, the last year ovation made to the French Michel Hécart (Nokia de Brekka), who won this competition for the 3rd time (2014, 2008, 2006).
Over the years, while the Derbies are increasingly rare, the city of La Baule and the Jumping organizing committee perpetuate this legendary competition. Besides of the grass arena upgrades, the Derby of La Baule can also count on the Laiterie de Montaigu support, new 2015 partner, alongside of the Pays de la Loire region. A support which allows to offer a highest prize money for this kind of test.
Frédéric Cottier, Course designer: “Nowadays, integrated at the CSIO 5* of France, the Derby is one of the 3 most famous competitions (with the Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup and the Grand Prix Longines of La Baule). It is impossible for riders to compete with their Grand Prix or Nations Cup horses, they need a second fast horse, which is also able to run on a double distance course. It is not a simple speed competition, it is a hard course for the couples, an attractive competition for the public, with an important prize money. We must remember that in a CSIO 5*, the number of riders is limited and only a few of them have horses able to run that kind of test. The Derby is an exceptionnal moment.”
Patrick Caron, Sport director: “La Baule has a worlwide specificity: it is its Derby. Each country can only have one CSIO 5* per year, and no other CSIO 5* all over the world has a Derby in its sport program. Therefore, the Longines Jumping International of La Baule is the only Show Jumping event to maintain this legendary test. We had to adapt to more modern sport horses, lighters, and warm blood horses. This is why, with the city, we work on a 4 years amelioration plan. We modified natural obstacles to give the best safety and comfort conditions for horses and riders. These innovations serve our sport. The implementation of mini-Derbies allows us to democratize these legendary competitions.”
DERBY LAITERIE DE MONTAIGU OF THE PAYS DE LA LOIRE REGION:
SATURDAY 16TH MAY 2015, AT 2.15 P.M
Distance about 1 100m, 21-22 obstacles (mixed between natural and classical obstacles)
61500 euros of prize money.
Information and accreditation form: www.labaule-cheval.com
Source: Press release
