A rider and a horse race together in competition. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

The FEI CSI2 2025 Hangzhou (Tonglu) International Show Jumping Competition kicked off at the Hangzhou Equestrian Center in Tonglu county on April 18, drawing over 400 rider-horse pairs from 17 countries and regions for three days of high-level competition.

This marks China's first FEI two-star event of 2025 and the highest-level equestrian event in Tonglu since the Asian Games. The competition features seven categories, including a 1.45-meter Grand Prix. Olympic rider Li Zhenqiang, Asian Games champion Bao Yingfeng, and other top names are among the competitors.

A rider-horse pair competes during the race. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

More than just a sporting spectacle, the event highlights Tonglu's transformation into a full-fledged international equestrian hub, blending sport, culture, and tourism. A new horse culture museum that opened on the same day showcases rare relics such as a 55-million-year-old ancestor horse skeleton and interactive exhibits tracing horse culture from ancient China to modern times.

Beyond the arena, activities like the international equestrian talent fair, a lifestyle market, and live horse shows have turned the event into a festival for all ages. Visitors enjoyed everything from local delicacies to cultural exhibitions, while clubs and businesses scouted talent at the job fair.

The horse culture museum. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

"From Asian Games legacy to equestrian economy, Tonglu is galloping toward global recognition," said an event official. With plans underway for a World Horse Pavilion, interactive equestrian tourism, and expanded infrastructure, the city is positioning itself as a top equestrian destination in the Yangtze River Delta — and beyond.

Ancient stirrups exhibited at the museum. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]