The Dutch Masters and Rolex met in a show-off in equestrian excellence

The world's top riders and horses gathered in 's-Hertogenbosch for the first Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major of 2025

The medieval city of 's-Hertogenbosch in the Netherlands hosted The Dutch Masters from March 13 to 16, 2025. This event marks the first Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major of the year.

The Dutch Masters began in 1967. It combines show jumping and dressage competitions. Riders and horses face challenges requiring skill, determination and emotional strength.

Rolex became the Main Sponsor and Title Sponsor of the event's feature class, the Rolex Grand Prix, in 2014. In 2018, The Dutch Masters joined the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping as the fourth Major.

The Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping rewards riders who win the Grand Prix at three of the four Majors consecutively. The Majors include The Dutch Masters, CHIO Aachen, CSIO Spruce Meadows 'Masters' Tournament and CHI Geneva.

Scott Brash remains the only rider to achieve this feat. He won in 2014 and 2015.

The Dutch Masters presents unique challenges compared to other Majors. The indoor arena is compact, requiring precision from horse and rider. Fences are closer together and courses tighter. Milliseconds often decide winners.

Daniel Deusser and Kevin Staut have won the Rolex Grand Prix at The Dutch Masters multiple times. Deusser triumphed in 2007, 2015 and 2022. Staut claimed victory in 2010 and 2014. And Harrie Smolders enters as the live contender for the Rolex Grand Slam. He won the CHI Geneva in December 2024.

The event introduced a new competition this year: the HeadFirst Group Award - Best of Champions. It pits the current individual FEI European, World, Olympic and Dutch champions against each other. Riders will jump the course with their own horses and their competitors' horses.

Steve Guerdat, the reigning FEI individual European champion, participated and stated, "The Rolex Grand Slam remains the most prestigious and sought-after prize in our sport; the only thing that comes close to winning a Rolex Major is winning a Championship."

While Jeroen Dubbeldam took on a new role as Sporting Director at The Dutch Masters. "The Dutch Masters is an incredibly special show to me," he said. "It has been amazing to compete in the Rolex Grand Prix - part of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping - in front of my home crowd over the years."

The Dutch Masters attracted over 65,000 spectators annually. It combined top-level sport with entertainment in a unique atmosphere.

The event showcased Rolex's long-standing commitment to equestrianism. This partnership began in 1957 with British show jumper Pat Smythe.

Riders faced the pressure of performing in a compact indoor arena. They navigated tight courses with precision. The margins for error are small.

The event tested the bond between horse and rider. They worked in harmony to succeed in this demanding environment and offered a glimpse into the world of elite equestrianism. It showcased the skill, dedication and partnership required to compete at the highest level.

As the first Major of the year, it set the tone for the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. Riders aimed to start their campaign for the sport's ultimate prize.

Also see: CHI Geneva 2024 returns to Palexpo Arena on December 11 to 15