THE ROLEX GRAND SLAM OF SHOW JUMPING, THE DUTCH MASTERS 2023
Geneva, 1 March 2023 – Created in 1966 and held in the medieval city of ’s‑Hertogenbosch, The Dutch Masters attracts the world’s leading horse and rider combinations. The event’s blend of magnificent show jumping and elite dressage puts it at the very top of the international indoor equestrian circuit. Rolex’s long-term relationship as Main Sponsor and Title Sponsor of the Grand Prix at The Dutch Masters began in 2014, signalling the start of a perfect partnership where respect for tradition is matched by a commitment to constant innovation.
Rolex has supported equestrianism for more than 60 years, since 1957 when pioneering British woman show jumper Pat Smythe became the first Testimonee from the sport. Since then, the Swiss watchmaker has forged bonds with the finest riders, competitions, and institutions, fostering continuous improvement, reflecting Rolex’s own pursuit of perpetual excellence.
An elite field of competitors will contest The Dutch Masters from 9–12 March. The event culminates with the first Major of the calendar year in the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, a global initiative created in 2013 and comprising the four equestrian Majors: The Dutch Masters (which completed the quartet in 2018), the CHIO Aachen, the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament and the CHI Geneva. One of the most coveted prizes in the sport, it rewards any rider who wins the Grand Slam at three of these events consecutively. To date, Rolex Testimonee Scott Brash is the only rider to have achieved this feat, completing his treble in 2015.
Rolex Equestrian Testimonee Daniel Deusser enjoyed a sensational 2022 season, which included two victories in the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Majors; the Rolex Grand Prix at The Dutch Masters and the ‘CP International’, presented by Rolex at the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament. The German rider will be aiming for The Dutch Masters as defending champion of the Rolex Grand Prix.
Daniel Deusser said: “I am really looking forward to returning to The Dutch Masters in March. Rolex have created something that everybody looks up to, and all the best riders in the world plan their season around the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. The unique indoor arena at ’s-Hertogenbosch poses a real challenge for riders. Precisely executed turns as well as horses and riders instinctively acting as one will be very important to win this Rolex Major.”
Dutchman and fellow Rolex Testimonee Jeroen Dubbeldam recalls his experiences of The Dutch Masters fondly: “I have been going to 's-Hertogenbosch for many years now, even before it was called The Dutch Masters, and it is such a special place, it really is the dream to compete there in your own country. To be able to jump in the Rolex Grand Prix in front of my home crowd is incredible, and since Rolex became a sponsor in 2014 the show has developed significantly, and the level of competition has improved so much. I have not managed to win there – so that is still a very big goal for me in the future.”
With over a century of knowledge and expertise in watchmaking, Rolex is driven by tradition and craftsmanship, along with innovation and a passion for perfection. These values are intrinsically reflected in the brand’s support of equestrianism.