History 1996

The 9th CSI from 21st to 24th March was appropriately named “Feria Espanola” serving as an initiation of countdown to the Olympic Games in Atlanta. This worked perfectly. Once again an increase to 40,100 spectators attended the Hallenstadion to experience the best in showjumping. Olympic Champion Ludger Beerbaum(De) with Ratina. European Champion Peter Charles (Irl) with La Lina, World Cup Champion Nick Skelton(Gb) with Dollar Girl, European Classic Title holder Eddie Macken(Irl) with Miss, Michael Whitaker with Two Step, John Whitaker with Welham, Austrian Hugo Simon with Apricot & ET, Grand Prix champion Markus Fuchs with Goldlights & Willi Melliger with his famous horse Calvaro, all participated.

The organizers Urs and Rolf Theiler gained a big success. Already a month before the CSI the sponsoring contracts with the major sponsors of Swiss Bankverein (main sponsor), Rentenanstalt / Swiss Life, Mercedes-Benz and Forbo International were extended for another three years.

Just like the popular high sporting events, the demanding and colorful cultural show "Feria Española", which the Spanish zest for life transferred to the audience. The show impressed with real Spanish lifestyle and passion.

Olympic Team Champion Jos Lansink won the European Classic on Sunday with 250,000 Sfr. Nick Skelton with Dollar Girl was 2nd and Willi Melliger with Calvaro 3rd. Markus Fuchs won the Grand Prix for the 3rd time with Goldlights. John Whitaker with Welham was 2nd with a difference of 1,12 seconds.