The Longines Masters may be known as the Grand Slam of indoor show jumping, but it is far from a stuffy equestrian event. Instead, it offers a fantastic experience for a family day out. In addition to the spectacle of some of the world’s top riders and horses, there will be a Prestige Village at the AsiaWorld-Expo site with food, shopping and other activities during the three-day event in February.
Here are seven of the highlights:
#1 Got a horse-mad little one in the house? They’ll love the chance to get up close to the action when the warm-up paddock is open to the public. Gates are open from 1pm on Friday 15 February, and from 9am on the weekend of 16 and 17 February. There will also be regular autograph sessions with riders.
#2 You’ll find a diverse and unique lifestyle shopping experience at the event with a huge range of brands showcasing their wares, including key event partner, watch and jewellery brand, Longines. Luxury fashion brand Hermes will have an equestrian-themed shop in the Prestige Village, and there will also be arts, cosmetics, audio technology and travel brands offering retail experiences.
#3 International gourmet food and beverages are a hallmark of the event. This year, European merchants such as French providore Monsieur Chatte and Italian eatery Ciao Chow will be on site. Further the indulgence with treats from XTC Gelato or Pololi, or even a fine-dining experience curated by Hilda Chan, one of the leading female chefs of her generation and Asia Ambassador of Disciples Escoffier International Asia. Hilda’s gastronomic creations will add depth to the three levels of hospitality under the banner of EEM Society.
#4 Try something new at one of the many workshops during the event. Tech-lovers can sample the latest audio technology, or enjoy an X-box driving experience at the Maserati booth. You can sample a gin or whisky at a tasting, or get cultural at an art appreciation workshop; even find out more about the best African safari experiences, or head to the Asia Marine stand for some photo-booth fun!
#5 Mini equestrian fans will have their curiosity satiated at the much-loved Kids Corner, which will be taken care by the Kids’ Gallery. Art and craft workshops such as the Equestrian Horse-show Toss Challenge and Show-jumping Challenge will keep the little ones and their parents entertained. Other activities include the famous Longines Carousel, the Longines mini-obstacle course and the HKJC Virtual Reality racing game. Save the Children will help introduce littles ones to equestrian sports with a special hobby horse training on the track, culminating in a Hobby Horse Competition on the afternoon of 16 February, in the Prestige Village.
#6 Elegance is the name of the game in the equestrian world, and nobody expresses it more eloquently than artists Frédéric Pignon and Magali Delgado, creators of the world renowned equestrian show Cavalia. They’re back in Hong Kong to present their unique performances combining horses, music, dance and multimedia across the three days. Also showcasing harmony between rider and horse will be home-grown Asian Games gold medallist Jacqueline Siu, who’ll display her special partnership with her mount in their first dressage performance on home ground. Each daily performance will be a unique demonstration of advanced dressage, a sport originating from classical horsemanship, where horse and rider execute high-level movements with power and grace.
#7 The night is always young at the Longines Masters of Hong Kong, even when competitions are over. Vibrant happenings will continue long into the night at the bar and lounge, where glittering after-parties are set to take place, including an exclusive set by special guest DJ Henri PFR on Saturday night. The fresh prince of the turntables and international chart-topper with a cult following on- and offline will shake up the dance floor at AsiaWorld-Expo, like he does in the international electro scene!
Fast facts
What is it?
The Longines Masters Series is one of the most prestigious equestrian events in the world for show jumping. Inspired by the tennis Grand Slam, the series takes place in three cities: New York, Paris and Hong Kong.
Where is it?
The Hong Kong event will be held at AsiaWorld-Expo.
When is it?
15-17 February 2019.
What about tickets?
Daily tickets range from HK$230 to $850. They can be bought online at longinesmasters.com/en/ticketing/hong-kong.
Where can I get more information?
Go to longinesmasters.com/en/season/hong-kong.
See more in our Things to do section:
Rain, haze or shine: Indoor activities for kids
Best public swimming pool in Hong Kong for families
12 free (or very cheap) things to do in Hong Kong
This article first appeared in the December/January 2018/19 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.