Chris Bartle heads up a Team GB stronghold at the in-gate. Photo by Tilly Berendt.
This July, the world-renowned CHIO Aachen grounds will welcome a new class of equestrian athletes as the CHIO Aachen CAMPUS hosts its first-ever International Training Camp for Eventing, led by one of the sport’s most respected figures: Chris Bartle.
Taking place from July 18–20, 2025, the immersive three-day program is designed for eventing riders competing at the international level, requiring participants to have achieved at least one Minimum Eligibility Requirement (MER) at the 2* level or above with their participating horse. The cost of the full program is €1,500 (about $1734 USD), which includes stabling, full board for both rider and a companion, and a packed schedule of world-class education.
“Aachen is an amazing venue,” said Chris, who currently serves as the British Eventing High Performance Coach. “It will be great to have eventing as part of the CHIO Aachen CAMPUS for the first time. We want to expand the standard of the sport and provide new incentives for riders and horses.”
Participants will train across the CHIO Aachen Dressage Stadium and the iconic Aachen cross-country course (weather permitting), offering a rare opportunity to ride on the same turf as the world’s top eventers. Bartle will lead an intensive program focused on developing a deeper partnership between horse and rider, emphasizing clear communication, shared responsibility, and a system riders can rely on even under the pressure of top competition.
Program Highlights:
Day 1: Technical arena training focused on the core principles of cross-country riding
Day 2: Individual dressage sessions in the CHIO Aachen Dressage Stadium
Day 3: Cross country session on the official CHIO Aachen course (weather-dependent)
Additional Features:
- Seat training on the advanced SAP equestrian simulator, replicating the Aachen cross country course
- Fitness training tailored to riders
- Theory session on cross-country fundamentals
- Course walk and video analysis of the 2025 CHIO Aachen cross country
- Q&A with Chris Bartle in the official CHIO Aachen press conference room
Throughout the camp, Chris will share his proven training philosophy: “The rider communicates with the horse through seat position and body language, supported by seat, leg, and only finally with the hand.” This method helped guide Germany to multiple team medals during his 16-year tenure with their national eventing program.
For those who’ve dreamed of riding at Aachen but haven’t yet made it to the World Equestrian Festival, this camp provides an exclusive opportunity to train at the sport’s pinnacle venue while learning from one of its most influential minds.
More information and registration details can be found here.
