The CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament takes place in Calgary, Canada, each September and unites elite sport with heritage and excellence at one of equestrianism’s most celebrated facilities. This year, the event will be held from 3-7 September, and will once again draw the world’s finest horses and riders to compete. Considered to be North America’s premier show jumping event, it culminates in the revered CPKC ‘International’ Grand Prix, presented by Rolex – one of the most technically demanding and celebrated competitions in the sport.

Rolex has supported the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament as its Main Sponsor since 1989, and belongs to the brand’s broader relationship with equestrianism that stretches back almost 70 years. The partnerships Rolex has within equestrianism reflect the brand’s celebration of human achievement, recognizing the journey marked by milestones and emotions that culminate in defining moments – determined by the path followed, not just a trophy. Through partnerships with elite athletes, events and organizations, the Swiss watchmaker supports those who set the highest standards of the sport.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the official opening of the world-renowned Spruce Meadows equestrian complex, which staged the inaugural CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament the following year. As a venue steeped in history, it represents the vision and dedication of the Southern family, who purchased the venue in 1971 and whose initial dream has evolved into one of the most respected stages in global show jumping. Spruce Meadows has evolved from 32 hectares (80 acres) of farmland into a universally respected venue.

The pinnacle class of the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament, the CPKC ‘International’ Grand Prix, presented by Rolex, has been one of the four Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Majors since the concept’s inception in 2013. The class takes place on grass in the renowned ‘International Ring’ and showcases some of the most iconic fences in the sport. With longer poles than traditionally seen in international competition – many are more than 4.5 metres – the course always provides an exacting challenge.

Among those elite athletes who set the highest standards and have had remarkable journeys to achievements within their career is Rolex Testimonee Scott Brash. In 2015, the Briton made the seemingly impossible a reality. Riding the same horse – Hello Sanctos – he claimed the Grand Prix at three consecutive Majors, with the third being the CPKC ‘International’ Grand Prix, presented by Rolex at the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament. This year commemorates the 10-year anniversary of Brash’s historic triumph in the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping – widely regarded as the sport’s ultimate challenge. Brash’s success is an epitome of the journey to achievement, with his triumph being the result of nearly 10 months of perseverance, consistent performance, and the pursuit of perfection.

Reflecting on his monumental achievement and journey to claiming the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, Brash commented: “At the beginning of my Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping journey, I did not ever really think it was possible for me to win. Each Rolex Major hosts the world’s best horse and rider combinations, and any combination could win – I have always understood how hard it is to win a Rolex Major, let alone the whole Rolex Grand Slam. If you told me that I would win at the CHI Geneva, and then go on and win two more Rolex Majors, and on the same horse, Hello Sanctos, I would not have believed it was possible.”

Brash not only won the CPKC ‘International’ Grand Prix, presented by Rolex in 2015 as part of his Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping journey, but also in 2016 with Ursula XII – an achievement that makes the venue even more special to the Scotsman. Speaking about the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament, Brash said: “The CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament venue is incredible; even if I hadn’t won the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping there, the location is still incredible. As you walk around Spruce Meadows, you can feel the history and you know how special it is to our sport of show jumping. It is similar to CHIO Aachen in that sense, you are surrounded by the history of previous Spruce Meadows winners, the statues, the grounds, everything is so immaculate. Spruce Meadows is like the Augusta National of the show jumping world in terms of the prestige and history. It is a very special venue and every year we go, you notice the improvements, it is constantly developing.”

Rolex’s enduring commitment to excellence in equestrianism encourages modernization while respecting the traditions and elegance of the sport, and the introduction of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping epitomizes this ideal. The CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament reflects this, and steeped in tradition, it unites elite sport with heritage and excellence at one of equestrianism’s most celebrated facilities.