History 2004

South Africa, the host country of this year's CSI was the main feature of this year's show. 43'100 spectators attended this year. Under the auspices of Frederik Willem de Klerk, former President of the Republic of South Africa and Nobel Prize winner, 120 South African dancers & singers portrayed the history of their country through a magnificent performance of "10 years of Freedom". This performance was part of the South African freedom celebrations.

"The presence of Frederik Willem de Klerk at CSI was a great honor for us", said Rolf Theiler, a personal friend of Mr. De Klerk.

In Johannesburg, the training for the show started in August 2003 directed by producers Mark West, Shado Twala and author Duma Ndlovu. All their efforts were rewarded with great applause of standing ovations & intense emotional experiences at every show.

Marcus Ehning with For Pleasure won the Credit Suisse Grand Prix. Christian Ahlmann with Cöster was 2nd and Jessica Kürten (Ireland) with Quibell finished 3rd. The Swiss equestrian Christina Liebherr with No Mercy completed the challenge in 6th position. Another CSI with dominating German equestrians. The Mercedes Swiss Masters was won by Ludger Beerbaum with Goldfever, 2nd Christian Ahlmann and 3rd Marcus Ehning. Best Swiss equestrian Willi Melliger finished 6th. In addition Ludger Beerbaum won the Classics, 2nd Rodrigo Pessoa and 3rd John Whitaker.