Release date: 14/03/2016

The state of the art Tops International Arena in Valkenswaard, The Netherlands, has today released the full show schedule for the 2016 show jumping season. This year will see the introduction of the 'Global Future Champions' events, two shows in July which will provide a springboard for the riders and horses of the future and allow unique opportunities for the next generation of world class show jumping combinations. Created specifically for both young horses (11th - 13th July), and young riders (15th - 17th July), the events will allow up and coming talent to perform on a world class stage, helping to progress and protect the future of the sport and creating a launchpad for the show jumping stars of the next generation.

Heralded as the ‘epicentre of equestrianism in Europe’ the unique, cutting edge venue will host five major show jumping events this summer, welcoming all levels of riders and horses from around the world to its spectacular facilities. The May events have been carefully planned around the full show jumping season schedule and will be held during the early part of the week, allowing top class riders often competing at CSI5* shows during the weekend, the opportunity to ride their young up and coming Grand Prix horses.

Owner and Founder of the Tops International Arena, Jan Tops, spoke of the new events this year: “I’m delighted to be able to host five world class events at the Tops International Arena this summer and I am happy to be able to look ahead to future generations and offer young horses and riders the opportunity to showcase their talents on a global scale with our new shows. I truly believe in securing the future of our sport by making show jumping more accessible to new competitors, partners and fans alike, and the creation of the Global Future Champions is another step forward in the positive growth of our sport, supporting young talent and offering experiences and opportunities for the top horses and riders of the future.”

The facilities at the redeveloped Tops International Arena are second to none, with an exceptional 125m by 85m sweeping grass arena, four further sand arenas featuring top class footing, canter tracks and lunging arenas, expansive warm up arenas, exceptional wash areas and facilities for grooms to provide top standard care and over 500 world class and beautifully designed stables available for visiting competitors. Within the impressive complex a shopping village, refreshments and entertainment areas are available for all the family to enjoy, with tickets allowing the perfect view of the action under covered grandstands.

The full 2016 Tops International Arena schedule is as follows:

TOPS INTERNATIONAL ARENA, Valkenswaard, The Netherlands

All events are open to the public, with tickets available from 5 euros. Further information around entertainment and evening performances, plus detailed event timings will be released in due course.

For all rider and competitor enquiries, or for any further information about Tops International Arena, please contact info@csivalkenswaard.com.

Media are welcome to attend the events by approved accreditation only. For all enquires and accreditation application forms, please email press@globalchampionstour.com