Few figures have such a deep mark on Spanish equestrianism as Antonio Blazquez. Visionary, entrepreneur and passionate about equestrian sport. His name is linked to the history of national equestrianism and the birth and subsequent growth of the Andalucía Sunshine Tourone of the great international events of Obstacle Jumping and a sporting, economic and social driving force for the province of Cádiz. He February 10, Antonio Blázquez turns 86 and the celebration will be double because in the current edition of the circuit, directed by his daughter Teresa, a participation record has been reached.
In the horse world he is affectionately known as the “Horse Santa Claus”. His idea brings enthusiasm and joy year after year to Vejer and for many international riders the Sol Equestrian Circuit marks the beginning of the international equestrian calendar.
Its origin dates back to more than thirty years ago when Blázquez, together with the British rider David Broomethey launched the I Circuit del Sola then pioneering project in Spain. The idea was as simple as it was ambitious: to offer high-level competition for several consecutive weeks, with international projection and in an attractive environment for riders and horses. That first edition had around 200 horses and was held on a traveling basis in different venues in the south of Spain. There were tests in Dehesa Montenmedio, Sotogrande and Marbella. In the third and fourth edition, the circuit took a new step, being structured into three weeks of competition in Montenmedio and a fourth final in Jerez de la Frontera.
The turning point came in 2000 when the circuit began to be held entirely in Montenmedio, Blázquez’s estate in Vejer. Since then, these facilities became the epicenter of international equestrian events during the first months of the course. The growth has been constant: expansion of tracks, technical improvements, increase in services and an organizational capacity that has placed the event as a benchmark.
Today, converted into the Andalucía Sunshine Tour, the circuit reaches its thirty-second edition with figures that reflect its size: More than 3,600 horses and nearly 14,000 accredited people pass through Montenmedio each season and generate an economic impact estimated at more than 60 million euros and hundreds of direct and indirect jobs. in the region of La Janda.
Dehesa Montenmedio has also established itself as the scene of major championships: the European Pony Championship in 2001, the European Championship for Youth and Young Riders in 2013, numerous editions of the Spanish Championship for Minors, the latest editions of the Spanish Absolute Championship and the Spanish Classic Championships or six editions of the CSIO of Spain, with Show Jumping as the main focus, but without neglecting Driving – the great passion of Blázquez-, the CCE and Dressage, which this year once again has international competition in March, within the framework of the current Andalusia Sunshine Tour.
This comprehensive vision – sporting, economic and social – has turned the Andalucía Sunshine Tour into an institution. A recognition that was reflected in March of last year when Antonio Blázquez received the Medal of the Province of Cádizthe highest distinction granted by the Provincial Council. The event highlighted his restless character, his ability to face challenges and his firm commitment to a land to which he has always been deeply linked.
Blázquez’s legacy has also been preserved through photographic exhibitions, documentaries and commemorative events that narrate the evolution of that project born in the nineties until it became the most important equestrian sports complex in Europe. He has actively participated in many of the initiatives with his wife. Love Abascal and key collaborators. Antonio Blázquez has been unanimously recognized as a pioneer and driving force of an idea that has transcended generations.
