A short review of the event

On Thursday May 12, Team Seaver arrived in La Baule (near Nantes, France). On the occasion of the Jumping International Grand Prix Longines, one of the most important competitions on the professional circuit. Admission for visitors is free, attracting huge crowds of equestrian sports enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

The difficulty of the jumps and the amount of prize money - over 600,000 euros (more than 700,000 dollars) - define this competition as belonging to the 5* category. The best champions are invited and participate, proudly representing their countries.

The setting is fantastic. La Baule is famous in France as one of the most exclusive vacation destinations. Among the many places of interest are Europe's longest sandy beach (9km of fine sand), numerous casinos, golf courses and a great equestrian tradition, culminating in the annual Jumping event.

As the event is held over 4 days, there are several challenges. The most notable are the Longines CSIO 5* and the Furusiyya Nations Cup stage. It was really fun to attend the other events too. For example, the 5* Derby (an event which is increasingly difficult to find at international events).

So, how did it go?

Well, the Nations Cup saw the Netherlands win for the second year running. Their score was almost perfect, followed by the USA and France on the podium. The CSIO 5* 1m60 (the final challenge, on Sunday) crowned Belgian rider Jérôme Guery and his fantastic horse Grand Cru. After a poor performance in the Nations Cup, they came away with a fine 3rd place in the Derby.

Seaver was present at all these events with an attractive stand. Many riders and horse owners came to take a look at our innovation. We showed the prototype of our strap and asked for feedback on its design, with a view to further improving its ergonomics. Our industrial designer also came along, and duly took note of the various comments made by professionals and amateurs from different disciplines, so that we could offer our customers the very best.

We had Abdelkebbir Ouaddar (show jumping champion) and Prince Moulay Abdallah (FEI committee member) on our stand to show their support and renew their interest in Seaver. What's more, we were also able to talk to numerous industry players. From those working in horse nutrition to equipment producers, discussing the evolution of the sector and future trends in the equestrian world, as well as journalists and riders interested in our vision which puts technology at the service of the horse.

Finally, we'll be present at Fontainebleau for the GP Classique, as well as at the GCT de Chantilly, to continue to show off our prototype and gather feedback to improve it.

Come and see us if you are there!

Team Seaver