Estoril, Portugal – Portugal will host the fourth leg of the Global Champions Tour (GCT) during CSI5* Estoril from July 21-23. The horse show offers 330.000 euros in prize money and will be ranked as a 5-star event by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) for the first time.

For course designer Frank Rothenberger (GER), who also designed in Estoril last year, the quality of the participants is even more important than the prize money. "For my work, it doesn’t matter how many stars a show carries," he explains. "I have to focus on the riders and the horses." As many top riders will participate in Estoril, the fourth of six events comprising the GCT, the event will offer outstanding competition. "We want to have good sport and we will make it an exciting class," promises Rothenberger.

Estoril has a reputation for hosting international sporting events. Many world championships in such sports as golf, tennis, motor sports, sailing and windsurfing have been held in the coastal city. Duarte Guedes, organizer of CSI Estoril and President of the Office for Tourism recognizes a great opportunity for the holiday region. "Estoril is very happy to host a leg of the Global Champions Tour as top sport events offer the best possible occasion to promote a region," says the 55-year old businessman. “People come to the show and see how beautiful it is – the leisure activities, the food, and the beaches. In the future, they come back and bring their families." His prediction is proven by Frank Rothenberger, who says, "Last year my wife came with me to Estoril. She doesn’t come to the shows very often, but she liked it so much that we are even bringing the children with us this summer!"

Top rider Jessica Kürten (IRL), winner of the Grand Prix of Estoril last year with Castle Forbes Maike, also enjoyed the atmosphere of the holiday region. "It was my first time in Portugal and I was impressed by the hospitality, and we really enjoyed the food."

The Irish woman looks t be a favourite to win this year's Grand Prix. During the third leg of the Global Champions Tour, sponsored by CN and CN WorldWide, in Monte Carlo in June, Kürten proved that she and her horses are in top form, finishing the show as its most successful rider. In Estoril, she will face stiff competition from Ludo Philippaerts (BEL) and Thomas Frühmann (AUT), currently the two highest placed riders in the GCT Ranking.