6 to 9 October 2005

For the first time in Athens, the World Equestrian Cup including three world class competitions, was held at the Olympic Equestrian Centre of Markopoulo. The ultra-modern facilities of the Olympic Equestrian Centre hosted athletes and spectators from all over the world and contributed to the prestige of an event of high-standing in the world of equestrianism.

“Events such as the International Equestrian World Cup and the presentation of a unique and rare Hellenic breed such as the Skyros horse, create the preconditions for the dynamic progression of this sport in our country”, said Alternate Minister of Culture Mrs Fanni Petralia.

Surrounded by 700 children and several VIP’s, the four Skyros horses - although still tired from their long travel from Corfu - remained calm and cooperative. While “Sunshine”, one of our trained mares, spend the morning with a group of handicapped children and their therapists, the young “Isabella” happily accepted being stroked by dozens of children who had never touched a horse before.

I would like to offer a special word of thanks to the Hellenic Equestrian Federation and the Organising Committee for their efforts in the preparation of the “Horse Art” exhibition, which included 1) the presentation and riding of four Skyros horses, 2) an educational “Skyros horse” stand with posters in three languages, 3) a small kiosk for the sale of works of art, various art reproductions and books and 4) the presentation of the original works of art in aid of the Skyros horse.

A special word of thanks goes also to the artists, Ioanna ASSIMENOU - Gérald BUTHAUD - Laurent FRISON - Jon Olav HELLE – Michael LAWRENCE - Audrey MIGEOTTE - Georges PENNAS - Aliki Alexandra STEEN - Marina VAMVAKA, who through their works representing Skyros horses, focused the attention of spectators, riders, officials, media representatives and sponsors, on the unique and rare Skyros horse.