A few weeks after the renewed Helsinki International Horse Show, CEO Valtteri Gundersby offers an initial summary of the event. Held in a new venue, at a new time of year, and expanded fourfold, the 40-year-old Longines FEI Jumping World Cup qualifier secured its place both internationally and domestically.
Feedback received by the organizers has been largely positive, although there is still room for improvement. Gundersby has just received an important report and evaluation from the international governing body and FEI Jumping World Cup series owner, FEI. Its core message can be summed up in the words: “the event exceeded expectations.”
“The changes were successful. The only factor lowering our overall rating is the relatively low prize money compared to the competition level. That was something we were aware of, and it’s difficult to influence,” says Gundersby.
The new facilities at Messukeskus, with its spacious halls, two show arenas, footing, international-level courses and equipment, stables, and facilities and conditions for the horses, received even higher scores than before in the FEI’s ECS evaluation.
“The feedback from international riders has been very positive. Of course, after the first year there are always small things to improve.”
The Helsinki Horse Show also featured 150 Finnish riders, most of whom competed at the new national Kultajousi Arena. They, too, have provided valuable feedback on the changes.
“About 90 percent of Finnish participants were very satisfied with the conditions, atmosphere, and number of spectators.”
The Horse Expo exhibition area, which expanded threefold, pleased visitors with its spaciousness and diverse offering. Exhibitors were also very satisfied with the move from an ice hall environment to functional exhibition facilities, as well as with visitor numbers.
“Over the four days, we had 53,947 visitors, and the initial feedback has been positive. We will publish a comprehensive visitor survey in April. We will also soon gain a clearer picture of how the new, more affordable expo ticket was received and how our marketing communications reached especially residents of the Helsinki metropolitan area.”
“Preliminary data suggests that on Thursday, the price difference between the expo ticket and the session ticket was small enough that visitors chose the session ticket. That was clearly reflected in the stands on the first day. Saturday and Sunday also sold well, and the World Cup sessions were sold out.”
The OP Uusimaa hobby horse arena and the Hevosurheilu RATSASTUS program stage were popular new additions, with clear highlights such as the bingo hosted by Katja Ståhl and the open arena with hobby horse obstacles.
“We are now dismantling the event, after which it’s time to take a short mental break. Overall, we can be satisfied. There were a suitable number of challenges for a first edition, but no major surprises. Based on current information, we also managed to avoid equine herpes virus infections thanks to strict precautionary measures.”
After the analysis phase, it will be time to outline necessary changes and improvements.
“It would be easy to implement improvements if the event were held every month. Now we have to wait until next year,” Gundersby laughs.
This year’s program largely followed previous years, but Gundersby has already been considering entirely new ideas. Time will tell what Finland’s largest annual indoor arena and equestrian event will offer on March 4–7, 2027, at Messukeskus.
Images available for publication (password HIHS2025) LINK
For more information please contact Valtteri Gundersby, +358 40 5798961, valtteri.gundersby@helsinkihorseshow.fi
