Es Balearen 2016 Dressage Competition Review

So here’s a bit of background to the event. The CDI5* Dressage Tournament is one of the 12 largest Dressage Tournaments worldwide. Riders came from all over: Austria, Belgium, Bermuda, Czech Republic, Denmark, Spain, France, Great Britain, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, Switzerland, Sweden and Ukraine.

The 10-day programme was held on the stunning Es Fangar estate, owned by the Eisenmann family. Es Fangar is the biggest, totally ecological Finca in the Balearics, and one of Mallorca’s largest privately owned properties. The event and its surroundings attracted more than 20,000 spectators who attended the competition.

Arriving at 1ish on the final day of the competition, we were welcomed with a break in the clouds and glorious sunshine as we entered the handsome estate. You couldn’t help but notice the immaculate fences and fascinating little feeders surrounding the most attractive well-kept horses in the fields as you entered the gates.

Driving past the VIP parking area on the left, we drove down a little track towards the car park. We then walked up to the entrance and through the gates. After a trip to the bathroom (portable toilets set up for the event), a little feeling of nostalgia crept in. It had a similar feeling to a county show I used to attend when I was a child, where people would come together for a weekend to celebrate agriculture and farming life in a vast showground with trade stands, equestrian events and much more.

Deciding to immerse ourselves in the competition straight away, we followed a path of sawdust that led us around the arena, before entering one of the little breaks in the tidy hedges that bordered the seating area. We walked along to the far end of the arena to find some seats, past the sound of lots of different nationalities. There was a significant number of Germans in the stands, this came as no surprise given the country’s long history of dominance in the sport.

Upon finding some seats, we waited for the next recital (I am not sure what you call an individual dressage performance, but recital seems fitting). Whilst waiting, I had a chance to absorb the setting and atmosphere. The arena in pristine condition, with the most perfect backdrop of the Mallorcan mountains and beautiful countryside. The judges sat in front of us in some rather luscious looking huts either side of where the riders and their horses would enter the arena. Whilst the VIPs were being spoilt with champagne down one side of the arena, the crowds sat quietly as they waited patiently.

Before I knew it, the next duo was out, the music was playing, and I was instantly mesmerized. It was overwhelming to see the horses work in such harmony with their riders. There is something quite mystical about this special bond between these riders and their horses. Being British, I was supporting Ellen McCarthy who was riding Casual in the CDI1* Intermediate Freestyle, but there were some incredible riders and she had some tough competition, including Sabrina Gressann (German) who was the winner of that category.

There was a little break where I decided to explore the charming trade fair. There were plenty of treats on offer, including some of Mallorca’s famous street food trucks, boutique shops with equestrian clothing and good quality leather. I must say I really was quite taken with the fabulous Luis Vuitton stand. On the way out, I noticed a little play area for the children with a climbing wall and other activities for them to let off some steam!

After a good snoop around, I went back to the fish and chips food truck to indulge in a little late lunch. The fish and chips (6€) and beer (2€) were very tasty indeed and just what I needed to boost my energy for the rest of the afternoon.

Upon my return to the stands, I paid closer notice to the riders, their names, and countries of origin as this was the CD15* - Grand Prix Special. There were some impressive riders, including Daniel Pinto riding Santurion de Massa who won the competition. If you are interested in the scores, you can check them out online here.

A great day out for the family, whether or not you are keen on horses or riding! Entry is free for general admission and VIP tickets are sold in advance online.