Duffy, Philippaerts and Van der Vleuten among the international stars at CSI Maeza

The fifth edition of the CSI Maeza will start this Friday at the Yeguada Finca Maeza, located in Sariego, Asturias. The competition has once again established itself as an outstanding event on the international calendar, attracting top riders from up to 18 countries: Belgium, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Finland, France, Great Britain, Guatemala, Ireland, Israel, Mexico, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Thailand and the United States.

One of the most anticipated additions this year is the Irishman Michael G. Duffy, who is participating for the first time in the CSI Maeza. Duffy arrives with a remarkable track record on the international scene: he was European team champion in the Young Riders category at Millstreet 2016, won a team bronze medal at the FEI Nations Cup Final in Barcelona 2018, and adds important victories such as the Grand Prix of the CSI4* of Montenmedio in 2021. In addition, last weekend he signed an outstanding third place in the Grand Prix of the CSI2* of Heras.

From Belgium, brothers Thibault and Anthony Philippaerts will compete again in Maeza, continuing the tradition of this prestigious family saga of riders. Thibault arrives after participating in the EEF Series Nations Cup in Deauville (CSIO3*) and is currently ranked 26th in the FEI U25 ranking.

The Dutch rider Eric Van der Vleuten Jr., who is closely linked to Yeguada Maeza, will also be participating again. In his most recent international competition, a CSI1* in Eindhoven, he rode three horses: Helia de Maeza, Nadine, and Tigris di Jonella, achieving notable results such as an eighth place in the 1.35 m class and a seventh in the 1.20 m class. In recent months, he has also been competing with other horses bred at the stud, including Helia de Maeza and Guy de Maeza.

Also coming from the Netherlands is Joost Marttens, who recently competed at the CSI3* in Eindhoven, where he took second place in a 1.40 m class. Portugal will be represented by Ricardo Gil Santos, who arrives after competing in the CSI2* in Matosinhos, where he secured a fifth-place finish in a 1.30 m class.

Slovenian rider Hana Travner returns to Spain after two years in Florida. This year, she has competed in the CSI1* and CSI3* events in Oliva, achieving results such as a fourth place in the 1.40 m class and a ninth in the 1.45 m class. Travner has a solid international career, having participated in Nations Cups, World Championships for Young Horses, and World Cup events.

From Colombia, Nicolás Toro stands out as he arrives in great form after achieving second place in the Grand Prix of the CSI2* in Heras, held last weekend.

With such a distinguished and diverse lineup, the CSI Maeza promises to be a top-level sporting event, where spectators can enjoy an international equestrian show in a unique setting. Charity tickets are already on sale at www.csimaeza.com for €8, and entry is free for children under 12. All competitions will be broadcast live on ClipMyHorse.TV in over 200 countries, and the Maeza Grand Prix on Sunday afternoon will be aired live on the Televisión del Principado de Asturias (TPA).

The event will be sponsored by Air Europa, with continued support from brands such as Grupo Eulen, CaixaBank, Oquendo, Ascor, Artiem, BMW Autosa, and Sidra Foncueva. Media partners include RTPA, ClipMyHorse.TV, and Onda Cero.