Story 5: Watching an equestrian competition
The history of Deauville, since the creation of the resort under the Second Empire,
is so closely linked to the horse that the town is naturally
equestrian capital of France.
With horse races organized all year round,
thoroughbred auctions, a world polo championship,
show jumping, dressage, driving and horse ball competitions,
Deauville is a legitimate international showcase for equestrian sports.
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Today, Deauville stands out in the equestrian world for its magnificent facilities, including the Pôle International du Cheval Longines - Deauville, and for the number and variety of events it hosts. In spring, the world's elite para-dressers gather for the unique Deauville International*** Para-Equestrian Dressage Competition, while riders compete in the Jump'in Deauville. In summer, the best athletes gather for the Dress'in Deauville and the Longines Deauville Classic.
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For three weeks in August, the Barrière Deauville Polo Cup takes over the polo fields at the Deauville-La Touques racecourse. Four tournaments punctuate this month of polo: the Ladies Polo Cup (10/14 goals), the Coupe de Bronze (6/8 goals), the Coupe d'Argent (14/16 goals) and, of course, the mythical Coupe d'Or (14/16 goals), whose final is scheduled for the Lucien Barrière Grand Prix de Deauville, on the last weekend of August. The matches are commented on and explained, often with a great deal of humor. The players are not averse to meeting the public; they often organize beach polo matches on the beach, and like to parade through town in fine weather. On the horse-riding side, the Deauville polo school teaches this Argentine sport all year round, with introductory courses for beginners, and group and private lessons.
