CHIO Aachen, often referred to as the 'Wimbledon of Showjumping', is an iconic equestrian event that has captivated audiences for decades. Held annually in Aachen, Germany, this legendary showjumping competition brings together top riders and horses from around the world to compete in a thrilling display of skill, grace, and determination. Known for its rich history, grandeur, and challenging courses, CHIO Aachen has become a symbol of excellence in the equestrian world. In this article, we explore the legends and unforgettable moments that have shaped the legacy of CHIO Aachen.
Nick Skelton: The Triumph of a Showjumping Legend at CHIO Aachen
Nick Skelton, a name synonymous with excellence in showjumping, etched his name in the annals of equestrian history with an exceptional feat at CHIO Aachen.
Skelton's remarkable talent and unwavering determination led him to clinch the coveted Grand Prix title at Chio Aachen not once, not twice, but an astounding four times.
Skelton's first victory in the Grand Prix at Chio Aachen came in 1982, aboard the renowned Selle Français horse, Everest If Ever by Nankin/Furioso XX. Continuing his dominance at Chio Aachen, Skelton secured back-to-back victories in the Grand Prix in 1987 and 1988. Riding the impressive KWPN horse Apollo by Erdball XX/Sinaeda. In 2013 Skelton showcased once again his exceptional talent and determination. This time, riding another remarkable KWPN horse Big Star by Quick Star/Nimmerdor (breeder: Cees Klaver) , Skelton soared to victory, securing his fourth Grand Prix win at Chio Aachen. See full result here. In 2013, the Grand Prix of Aachen was part of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping for the first time. So Nick Skelton became the Rolex live contender.
The Aachen Grand Prix also appears twice on the impressive record of the Hanoverian stallion Goldfever I. With his rider Ludger Beerbaum, they were good for back-to-back wins in 2002 and 2003. Beerbaum himself won his first Aachen GP, back in 1996 with the legendary Ratina Z by Ramiro Z/Almé Z bred by Stoeterij Zangersheide.
List of multiple Grand Prix Aachen winners
| Rider | #GP wins Aachen | Horses |
|---|---|---|
| Nick Skelton | 4 | Everest If Ever - Apollo - Big Star |
| Ludger Beerbaum | 3 | Goldfever I - Ratina Z |
| Paul Schockemöhle | 3 | Deister - El Paso - Talisman |
| Alwin Schockemöhle | 3 | Wimpel II - Donald Rex - Freiherr |
| Piero d'Inzeo | 3 | Bally Back - The Rock - Uruguay |
| Fritz Thiedemann | 3 | Meteor - Aar - Original Holsatia |
| Hans Günter Winkler | 3 | Halla - Enigk - Orient |
| Marcus Ehning | 2 | Pret a Tout - Noltes Küchengirl |
| Jean-Claude Van Geenberghe | 2 | Freestyle - Carrera La Silla |
| Nelson Pessoa | 2 | Nagir - Gran Geste |
| Neal Shapiro | 2 | Sloopy - Jacks or Better |
Germany's Domination: The Nations Cup Triumphs at CHIO Aachen
Team Germany 2022
The Nations Cup at CHIO Aachen has long been a stage for fierce competition, national pride, and equestrian excellence. Throughout its illustrious history, one nation has consistently demonstrated its prowess in team showjumping: Germany. With a remarkable record of multiple victories, Germany's dominance in the Nations Cup at CHIO Aachen has solidified its reputation as a powerhouse in the sport.
Over the last 20 years Germany won the Nations Cup in Aachen 8 times and more in the years before! Click the year to see the full result and participants: 2022 - 2018 - 2017 - 2016 - 2008 - 2007 - 2006 - 2004
Exceptional Rider-Horse Partnerships
Shutterfly and Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum were part of the German team in 2008 - 2007 and 2004 when they secured the victory in the Nations Cup. Just like Cöster and Christian Ahlmann who were also there in the same years. Their contributions to the German team were crucial in maintaining the nation's dominance in team showjumping. In 2005 the outstanding won Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum the Grand Prix of Aachen with crowd favorite Shutterfly.
The exceptional partnership between Marcus Ehning and For Pleasure contributed to Germany's success in the Nations Cup competition as well. They may not been in the winning team but they were 4 times there when Germany ended in the Top 3 of Aachen's Nations Cup.
Discover the historic results of showjumping in Aachen to see all winners
