Tribune News Network
Doha
Excitement is building with less than one week before the 2020 Longines Global Champions Tour and GCL (Global Champions League for teams) gets underway at the Longines Arena at Al Shaqab in Doha from 5-7 March.
As the top riders and horses in the world begin the Championship race at this incredible international equestrian facility, show jumping fans will be able to watch all the action live on GCTV.
All eyes will be on Doha for the LGCT Grand Prix and GCL team competition to see which rider and team will claim victory and secure the first qualification spot for the LGCT Super Grand Prix, held at the GC Prague Playoffs in November.
Last season saw a stunning finish as French rider Julien Epaillard (FRA) snatched the win from 2019 LGCT Champion and LGCT Super Grand Prix winner Ben Maher (GBR). Julien returns to defend his title this year, and will compete against stars including Scott Brash (GBR), Pieter Devos (BEL), Maikel van der Vleuten (NED), Simon Delestre (FRA), Daniel Deusser (GER), Hans-Dieter Dreher (GER) and Peder Fredricson (SWE) in a bid for glory at this early stage of the season.
Shanghai Swans emerged victorious in the GCL of Doha in 2019 as the only team to finish on a zero score, while Valkenswaard United and New York Empire took the second and third places.
It will be all to play for this season as the teams aim to make their mark at this opening leg of the Championship battle.
Tickets are available for the three days of spectacular show jumping. Visitors will be able to enjoy a variety of activities including a Kids’ Village, chic ringside cafes and the opportunity to see the next generation of young talent in the impressive indoor Kids Academy.
The stage is set as the best in showjumping return to Doha to begin this season’s race to the top of the leaderboard.