Press release from Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping

The Rolex Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious classes on the equestrian calendar, delivered a breathtaking conclusion to the 2024 edition of the CHI Geneva. As the final Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major of the year, the competition brought together the world’s most elite riders and their exceptional horses, all vying for the ultimate prize in the sport. 

Held in the iconic main arena, the Rolex Grand Prix once again captivated audiences with unparalleled displays of athleticism, precision, and skill. The star-studded field of 40 was sensational and included all of the top 10 ranked riders in the world. Among them was Rolex Testimonee Martin Fuchs, who entered the class as the current live contender for the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping following his extraordinary back-to-back victory in the CPKC ‘International’ Grand Prix, presented by Rolex, at the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament in September. 

Gérard Lachat’s course proved difficult to master initially, with early favourites, Rolex Testimonee Richard Vogel and Germany’s Marcus Ehning, unable to produce the rounds they had hoped for. However, sixth into the impressive arena, Dutch rider Harrie Smolders delivered a clear round, as did next to jump, World No. 1 Henrik von Eckermann, ensuring a jump-off...

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It is your first time here at the CHI Geneva – can you tell us how special it is, as a young rider, to have the opportunity to compete here?

It is fantastic – what an incredible venue! The arena, the atmosphere, the facilities – it is a privilege to compete here and to watch the world’s best horses and riders. It is a spectacular event, and it is great to be a part of it this year. 

How much of an inspiration is it to see past members of the Young Riders Academy supported by Rolex such as Richard Vogel and Harry Charles being so successful in the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Majors?

It definitely gives me a bit of hope! Even to be able to have half the success that those riders have had would be amazing. I think without the Young Riders Academy supported by Rolex it would not have been as easy for them to get to where they are now. 

What lessons have you learned from the Young Riders Academy supported by Rolex?

A lot! It is a fantastic programme, not just for the fact that you have the opportunity to be able to learn from some of the greatest riders and trainers in the world, but you also learn about veterinary care, business and economics, and communication.

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Please could you introduce yourself and tell us about your role? 

My name is Sofie. I am Christian Kukuk's travelling groom, and I have worked with him for about nine years. 

How did you begin your career in the industry? 

I have ridden all my life and always had horses at home. I also used to compete at national schools. I am from Sweden, and I realised that further south in Europe, the sport is bigger and more established. It was always a dream of mine to move abroad, so when I left school, I moved to Holland and was there for a year and a half. I then moved to Ludger Beerbaum’s stables, where Christian was based, and I have been there ever since. 

How do you ensure that your horses are able to peak at the most important moments during the year? 

It is hard to say, but the more years I have worked in the industry, the more I have realised that less is more. You have to do a lot of work, but I think the horses are usually happiest when we keep it simple. We try not to do too much around them and let them be horses. Hopefully, this helps them be in good shape for the competition....

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The Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping is considered by the sport to be the ultimate equestrian challenge, primarily due to the sporting prowess required to achieve this feat. It is a quest taken on by the world’s top riders, vying to secure the legendary status associated with winning the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.

The format of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping is simple: anyone who wins three Majors in a row receives the Rolex Grand Slam trophy and a €1 million bonus on top of the class’s prize-money. If that same rider then continues their success by winning a fourth Major in succession, they will be rewarded with an additional €1 million bonus.