18 february 02 Mar 2025

Saint-palais-sur-mer
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A land of horse excellence

With the Jumping International de Royan, thehorseback riding is the 2nd sport practiced in Royan Atlantique behind the surf. Nearly 1200 licensees practice equestrian competition in show jumping or Show Jumping Competition (CSO). This discipline takes place on a delimited field on which the rider must overcome obstacles. His mount must pass in a precise order without knocking them down, refusing them or even stealing them.

Julien Epaillard
Julien Epaillard

Several equestrian centers organize competitions on their own grounds. This is the case of Royan Horse Club, also called Maine Gaudin which offers, with the Jumping International de Royan, International Jumping Competition (CSI) 1 and 3 stars (CSIs are graded from 1 to 5 stars* depending on their level of difficulty and prestige).

Nestled in the middle of the national forest of Saint-palais-sur-mer, the Royan Horse Club organizes national and international equestrian competitions.

The Jumping International de Royan, A flagship event

At the head of Maine Gaudin since 2015, Jacques Couderc has been able to restore its letters of nobility to the Maine Gaudin. He transformed the quarry into an extraordinary sand track. Produced by the Équi+ company, it notably hosts high-level competitions.

Thus several International Jumping Competitions are now held every year. First, there are 3 weeks in February-March, then 2 weeks in June-July and finally 2 weeks in October. These competitions are part of the calendar of the French Equestrian Federation. They are open to both professionals and amateurs with a license. The level of difficulty of the events depends on the height of the bars to be cleared, up to 1.50m at Maine Gaudin.

Out of season, the mild climate offered by the territory constitutes a fair balance for riders in satisfying their preparation conditions. Many distinguished riders regularly return to the CSI of Jumping International de Royan.
We can regularly admire competing Penelope LEPREVOST, Philippe ROZIER, Kevin STAUT, members of the French team and former Olympic champions, as well as the team bronze medalist and 4nd individually at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Julien EPAILLARD.

While they appreciate the quality of the track, they also like to go to the beach of the Grande Côte for a moment of relaxation for the horses.

The Royan Horse Club is not the only one to organize renowned equestrian competitions in the region. Located in La Palmyre, Royan Atlantic Racecourse also offers Horse races trotting, flat and obstacles from Easter to the end of August. The prestigious race green trophy welcomes the best French drivers.

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