Nations Cup returns to Thunderbird Show Park in Langley

Nations Cup returns to Thunderbird Show Park in Langley

Called the 'crown jewel' of equestrian sport

  • Dec. 22, 2018 12:00 a.m.

The prestigious Nations Cup will continue at Thunderbird Show Park in Langley.

The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) has officially awarded Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup Canada for a three-year term beginning in 2019.

READ MORE: World cup at Thunderbird Show Park won by O’Neil

In addition to the Senior Nations Cup, tbird will also host young rider, junior, and children’s Nations Cups.

Thunderbird held its first Nations Cup in 2016.

“Next to the Olympics, the Nations Cup is the crown jewel of equestrian sport,” said Jane Tidball, President of Thunderbird Show Park.

“When my parents, George and Dianne Tidball, founded tbird 45 years ago, they envisioned a boutique horse show with exceptional service, top sport and an ongoing commitment to excellence. They always wanted our exhibitors and spectators to wonder what would be new at Thunderbird next year and it’s a legacy we’re proud to continue. With the Nations Cup returning for another three years, you can expect each BC Open tournament to be bigger and better than the last—my parents wouldn’t have had it any other way.”

READ MORE: Friends and family remember George Tidball

The 2019 edition of the Cup will take place in May.

The event will be the last and deciding stop within the North American, Central American and Caribbean League, determining which two nations will earn a berth for the coveted annual championship.

Date and location of the final will be announced by the FEI in the near future.

“We are thrilled that the FEI has announced Thunderbird as the host site for Nations Cup competition in Canada moving forward,” said Jon Garner, Equestrian Canada Director of Sport.

“Having hosted high performance competition for nearly 50 years, Thunderbird is well qualified to execute the Canadian leg of 2019–2021 Nations Cup competitions.”

Langley Times