History 1998

The 11th CSI March 26 to 29 was surrounded by problems which started in the run-up to the event. Despite growing success Rolf & Urs Theiler had to face the fact that the possible end of CSI was imminent. Rolf Theiler announced in January: "Without a solution the 11th CSI would be our last." The reason behind this despondent forecast: Andre Bechir, the new directorate of the Hallenstadion needed better advertising around the stadium. CSI, previously paid a rental of 42,000 Sfr plus taxes of 100,000 Sfr for restoration & in addition provided fixed equipment for 70,000 Sfr free of charge.

Although CSI had become not only a major sport event but also a social event & produced a turnover of 25 million Sfr in the Zurich region, the brothers in January, still had no contract. Eventually after discussions on March 11th they could sign a new contract with Hallenstadion for another 4 years. In 1999 the CSI would be held in March for the last time.

With this problem resolved, the next problem surfaced...
Through instrumentality of Jordan’s Princess Haya bint Al- Hussein it became possible to present the planned show of 32 camels & 22 Arabian horses in scenic images around everyday life of the Bedouins in the desert.

The Swiss riders dominated the challenges. Willi Melliger with Calvaro won the main challenge Jos Lansink was 2nd & Hugo Simon, 3rd with ET. The Grand Prix was won by Beat Mändli with Poor Boy.