Even if the sun didn’t appear until later on in the day, tens of thousands of people flocked to the Aachen Soers to experience the atmosphere on Allianz Park Day, which boasted free admission. While the Allianz Park traditionally opens its gates on Sundays, this year the Open day fell on a Monday due to the sports schedule. This certainly didn’t have a negative effect on the turnout. Around 30,000 visitors arrived throughout the day to enjoy a varied show programme and the Championships-Village, witness a world record attempt and experience top show jumpers in action.

The world elite were already training in the spacious warm-up arena, with crowds gathering along the surrounding hedges to get a close-up look at their idols. A short distance away, spectators were able to admire demonstrations featuring various breeds from the German horse breeding sector as well as a range of equestrian disciplines. Friesians, Fjord horses, mini-trotters and draught horses were among those that drew enthusiastic applause. Children and their parents also wound their way through the Championships-Village, while participating in the “Family Rally presented by Allianz.” At various stations across the grounds, they were able for instance to meet the German dressage rider, Semmieke Rothenberger, or test their skills in the Bobby Car slalom at the Mercedes-Benz stand.

The excitement rose when 158 riders launched a world record attempt to perform the largest Haflinger and Noble Haflinger quadrille. Marching in rows of four, the seemingly endless parade paced across the grass arena, cheered on by crowds of spectators. A short while later, it was announced: the attempt had been successful! Amidst thunderous applause, the initiators were presented with the official certificate.