History 2002

The 15th CSI was one of the best CSI events ever seen. 13 of the top ranked 15 equestrians guaranteed top showjumping. Two very interesting new challenges were introduced: In one challenge the equestrians had to change each other's horses and in the other challenge - the Mercedes Jump & Drive - the equestrians had to jump off the horse, run to drive a Mercedes. The audience loved these 2 new challenges! On Thursday the organization recorded 500'000 spectators since the beginning of the CSI. "The horse is absolutely the center of the event! 15 years ago we were not allowed to advertise horses on posters but now we are very happy that the horse has become the most important aspect of the event!" Urs Theiler President of CSI said at the end of the tournament.

This evolution was possible due to incredible shows throughout the years and this year another unique show was presented. The french "horse magician" Jean-Francois Pignon, delighted the audience with very special manouvers and focussed on the special harmony between man and horse.

The top star of CSI 2002 was Ludger Beerbaum, European champion. He won the Classics (awarded with CHF 400'000) with his horse Goldfiever. He could now win the challenge on Saturday, where the equestrians change horses. Susanne Behring with Arioso was placed 2nd and Jan Tops with Grand Dame 3rd. The Swiss equestrians had been slightly unlucky: Beat Mändli riding his 9 years old Oldenburger Gryfino could not participate at the "Barrage" of the best 10 equestrians. Bad luck also for Markus Fuchs, who fell during warm up & unfortunately had no chance during the challenge. The Credit Suisse Gold Cup (1 kg gold) for the most successful equestrian at CSI was won by Marcus Ehning. The Credit Suisse Grand Prix on Thursday, was won by the Swedish rider,Rolf-Goran Bengtsson, his first time at CSI.