By leaps and bounds
The Longines Hong Kong Masters returns for its fifth year with even more treats in store
he showjumping world’s finest horses and riders will converge on Hong Kong to compete in the discipline’s largest international indoor competition in Asia from February 10-12, the finale of a prestigious tri-continental showjumping series that has enthralled crowds in Los Angeles and Paris.
The three-day Longines Hong Kong Masters features six showjumping classes and a rich purse—2.25 million euros is up for grabs for the winner of the Super Grand Slam. Hong Kong’s Jacqueline Lai will be competing after her impressive debut last year. “It’s an honour to be back representing Hong Kong among the world’s top riders,” she said. The Masters culminates on the Sunday with the Longines Grand Prix.
If you’re keen for some gastronomic indulgence to match the equestrian drama, be sure to book a table at the ringside VIP Masters Club. Here, renowned French chef Yves Mattagne (whose Sea Grill restaurant in Brussels boasts two Michelin stars) will oversee a menu of lobster, oysters, truffles and caviar accompanied by fine wines and lashings of champagne. An exclusive new VIP Terrace is being added this year, ideal for entertaining up to 50 guests, business partners or clients.
The Prestige Village is an ideal place to peruse a multitude of luxury labels and enjoy live DJ entertainment once the showjumping ends. New to the village this year is the Equestrian Experience zone, showcasing the latest saddles, riding apparel and kit, and a new children’s area with mini jumping courses and equestrianthemed games. And Spanish equestrian sensation Santi Serra’s choreographed performance will show off the natural beauty and innate grace of horses. The Masters is not to be missed.
February 10-12; 1pm Friday, 9am Saturday and Sunday; $200–980; VIP Masters Club tables for eight, $50,000–$70,000; Asiaworld-expo. longineshkmasters.com