The Grand Slam of Eventing, sponsored by Rolex, consists of three of the top CCI**** eventing competitions in the world. To win the Grand Slam, a rider must consecutively win all three events, although they are permitted to ride different horses in each competition. This is especially important, since the Badminton Horse Trials is only one week after Kentucky, and the horse would not have sufficient time to recover between the two competitions, especially since he/she would have to be flown overseas in that time.
The three events that make up the Grand Slam are:
Winners receive an extra $350,000, in addition to their winnings from each event.
The Grand Slam of Eventing began in 1999, and has since only been won by one rider.
This feat will never again be emulated, since the sport heralded a new era in 2005 with the introduction of 'short format,' eliminating the Roads and Tracks and Steeplechase phases of the Cross-Country day.
Andrew Hoy:
Oliver Townend:
Having initiated the concept themselves in 1998, the company have since established themselves as a leading sponsor within Three Day Eventing. Furthermore, they are title sponsors of the Rolex Kentucky Horse Trials and major supporting sponsors for Badminton and Burghley.