History 1991

For the first time CSI Zurich had now become an indoor event, from the 21st to 24th March. After 3 successful events, the legendary former manager of Hallenstadion Sepp Vögele recognised the successful qualities of Rolf & Urs Theiler & their team. Fourty years after the last tournament in Hallenstadion, again a showjumping event in the old Wädli- Tempel. CSI only had to move from one side of the street to the other, but organizers had to coordinate and adapt everything. Approximately 500,000 Sfr of a total of 3.2million comprehensive budget was needed to turn the Indoor Stadium into a showjumping arena with a capacity of 7,000 seats. The prize money of 500,000 Sfr again was divided amongst the world‘s best equestrians.

Former equestrian, Paul Weier, was responsible for the organization of the show. He presented a show under the slogan ”700 years of horses in Switzerland” in which 230 riders on 180 horses participated.

Thursday highlighted the multiple Olympic, World & European figure Skating Champion, Katarina Witt, in an exceptional presentation of a freeskating show.

But, as fate would have it, an unforeseen mishap with Katarina Witt’s show. This charming lady ended up with the wrong luggage, the wrong costume & music, but with improvisation all ended successfully.

Michael Whitaker from Great Britain became the big dominator at this year’s event. Three times European Champion, he won on Saturday with My Mesieur, the main challenge, the jumping as well as a progressive challenge with Mountain Peaks & thus celebrated his third & fourth victory in Hallenstadion. Whitaker was also placed 2nd & 3rd and exceeded his prize money to 25,000 Sfr. German rider Franke Sloothaak with Walzerkönig changed the decision on Sunday at the European Classic by two hundredth. With this marginal minimum, the Olympic Team Champion won against teammate Otto Becker with Pamina in 2nd place. Thomas Fuchs with Dollar Girl ranked 6th. The Grand Prix on Friday was won by Nick Skelton with Grand Slam.