Four Action-Packed Days of Show Jumping Competition, Polo Exhibitions, Live Music, Luxury Shopping and More Kicked Off to Enthrall and Dazzle Spectators

The Long Beach Convention Center opened its doors for the start of the 2016 Longines Masters of Los Angeles today, one of the most prestigious equestrian events in the world that brings together the top riders for four days of competition. As the elite-level riders and horses kicked off season two of the Longines Masters Series, guests were treated to adrenaline-charged competition, live entertainment, and a marvelous Opening Gala.

“Today was the kickoff of the 2016 Longines Masters Series and we have hit the ground running,” said Christophe Ameeuw, CEO and Founder of EEM. “We’ve already seen world class riding and jumping, and it’s only been one day. Guests can expect the next three days to continue delivering action-packed excitement through equestrian sport. It’s only just the beginning.”

Athletes from around the world competed in the first day of heart-pounding show jumping competition across three levels. In the Olympic-level, CSI 5* Masters class, Emanuele Gaudiano and Guess 6 took home the KTLA Trophy after finishing the course with the winning time of 66.26. Hilary McNerny and Vitesse won the CSI 2* Prestige PRG Trophy, while Hanna Mauritzon and Parkmore won the Engel & Völkers Trophy. Amelie Bitrar and Beirut, and Jessica Sullivan Allen and Little Annie claimed top spots in the first day’s National class events.

During the evening, guests were invited to celebrate at the Opening Gala, hosted by chart-topping rapper and horse enthusiast Iggy Azalea. 

Equestrian superstars rubbed elbows and sipped Barons de Rothschild champagne with Hollywood glitterati including actress and rider Kaley Cuoco and Guillaume Canet, and French singer JAIN brought the house down with a live musical performance. Santi Serra also treated guests by demonstrating the beauty and grace of the horse’s movement with one of his famous Sercam Shows, a performance of natural dressage that exhibits the relationship and trust between human and animal.

The 2016 Longines Masters of Los Angeles will continue over the next three days at the Long Beach Convention Center. The jam-packed weekend includes the La Martina Polo Exhibition, more live music, dressage demonstrations, and much more.

Catch the American Leg of the Grand Slam Indoor of Show Jumping when the Longines Grand Prix and Longines Speed Challenge air on the CBS Sports Network on Monday, Oct. 3 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.