One of the world’s leading female riders Jane Richard Philips can’t wait to return to Hong Kong for the 2014 Longines Hong Kong Masters this week.
The Italy based 33-year-old (Swiss born) competed for the first time ever in Asia at last year’s inaugural Longines Hong Kong Masters and reflects fondly on the experience.
“It was a super show and my horses jumped very well,” Philips said.
This year Philips, a Longines Ambassador of Elegance, will bring Upanisad and Dieudonne to the show. She has opted to leave her best horse, Pablo, at home for a rest after he recently finished 5th at a 5* event in Zurich.
Upanisad competed at last year’s Longines Hong Kong Masters but it will be a whole new experience for Dieudonne.
Philips, currently in 68th position in the FEI rider world rankings, said she enjoyed the atmosphere of the Longines Hong Kong Masters and that both horses should adapt well to the environment.
“The atmosphere was something completely new because the sport is something new to the spectators in Hong Kong and they see it differently to people in Europe who are very accustomed to this form of equestrian sport.”
“It was very good because they really supported the horses and riders.”
Philips, who competes in major events all over the world throughout the year, lists the Longines Hong Kong Masters as one of her favourite shows.