Organizer EEM (European Equestrian Masters) is pleased to announce that Gucci, one of the world's leading luxury fashion brands, has extended its title sponsorship of the Gucci Masters for the years 2010 and 2011.
The Gucci Masters, which was established in December 2009 when Gucci returned to equestrian sponsorship after an absence of 20 years, immediately established itself as one of the world's most prestigious indoor equestrian competitions. Gucci has long been associated with the sporting glamour of the equestrian world. Various symbols from the horse bit to the striped girth strap have inspired the Florentine house's designs over the years subsequently becoming iconic Gucci signatures.
“The Gucci Masters provides a perfect link to Gucci's values, prestige and culture," commented Frida Giannini, Gucci's Creative Director. "As we approach the House's 90th anniversary in 2011, it is an event that perfectly symbolizes the traditions we proudly carry forward.”
The second Gucci Masters will take place from December 3rd to 5th, 2010, once again at the Parc des Expositions Paris Nord Villepinte exhibition centre during the Paris Horse Show, which runs from December 4th to 12th. The Gucci Masters will bring together the world's best riders along with an audience of many well-known personalities, who are equestrian enthusiasts, including Martina Hingis, Nicolas Canteloup and Gucci-sponsored Charlotte Casiraghi, who will be taking part in the CSI 2 events. Some 40,000 spectators are expected to come along to see the riders and their mounts, who will have competed at the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky, USA, just a few weeks before. The highlight of the three days of competition will be the Gucci Grand Prix, a CSI 5 competition with a €300,000 prize, scheduled for Sunday December 5th.
Christophe Ameeuw, General Manager of EEM, said, “The Paris Masters is one of the world's most important equestrian occasions, it is therefore very fitting that we have one of the world's most prestigious brands as the title sponsor. Gucci's heritage and values are the perfect complement”.
Virginie Couperie-Eiffel added, “I am honoured to once again be named as the official Ambassadress for this wonderful equestrian meeting, where sporting excellence and the elegance of Gucci combine to create such a special atmosphere. It is a spirit that is unique to the world of equestrianism, which is why the sport is attracting such a growing following”.
Kevin Staut, European Champion and current show jumping world number one, will complete an exceptional line-up of the world's top 40 riders. He heads up a contingent of French riders who are in outstanding form, as evidenced by their victorious performance at the 2010 Nations Cup. The other favourite for the event will be Belgium's Jos Lansink, winner of the Gucci Masters last year and the reigning World Champion, who will be defending his crown in Lexington at the end of the month. Eric Lamaze, Canada's Olympic Champion, has also confirmed his attendance and will be sure to be vying for top honours.
During the course of its three day sponsorship, Gucci will once again open a temporary retail store on site for visitors to enjoy shopping between the shows, including a limited edition scarf and made to order boots.
Italy:Gucci & Charlotte Casiraghi form new partnershipSir Jack Brabham is Shannons’ Christmas gift
