Shanghai saddling up for another showcase

In order to produce more world-class equestrian athletes like Alex Hua Tian, who placed eighth at the 2016 Rio Olympics, China has stepped up efforts to host more high-level international meets.

According to media reports, the nation hosted 46 national and international equestrian competitions in 2013, but over the past two years the number has been steadily increasing, with the Shanghai Longines Global Champions Tour leading the way.

As a CSI level 5 show jumping event sanctioned by the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), the Shanghai stop is one of the highest-level competitions in China, and has opened a golden window of opportunity for homegrown riders.