Gazing upon this stadium, can you believe it once echoed with the thunder of hooves at the 1972 Summer Olympics? This is the Olympic Riding Stadium Munich. It was a temporary facility but its legacy remains. It stands in the Riem area.
The Olympic Riding Stadium Munich hosted equestrian events. Individual jumping, cross-country eventing, and the riding portion of the modern pentathlon took place here. The stadium was built on the grounds of the Riding Academy and the Munich Riding Club. These grounds provided the perfect setting for world-class competition.
For the 1972 Games, much was constructed. An equestrian stadium and a riding hall were built. Stables for 370 horses were erected. Accommodation for the grooms was provided as well as an infirmary. Show-jumping and dressage arenas completed the picture.
The Olympic Riding Stadium Munich was large. It held up to 23,000 spectators. They watched military dressage and show jumping. Individual show jumping and the modern pentathlon were also on display. All could be viewed from a main stand with a glass roof. The stadium was also a start and end point. It marked the beginning and end for the 35-kilometer military cross-country riding event. The route went from Riem to Poing and back.
After the Olympic Games, the stadium was not forgotten. The Olympic Riding Stadium Munich continued to host tournaments. It even became Munich’s second most important concert stage after the Olympic Stadium.
From the mid-1970s to the early 1980s, European Championships took place. Show jumping was featured twice. Two German Championships were held here. Dressage and show jumping were both showcased. Concerts continued up until 2012. Stars such as Bob Marley and The Wailers graced the stage. Supertramp, Pink, Linkin Park, Coldplay and Green Day all played here.
Even today, the Olympic Riding Stadium Munich thrives. It is still used for Bavarian equestrian sports. Once a year on Ascension Day, Pferd International München takes place. This is the largest equestrian event in southern Germany. The horse event offers a variety of disciplines. Show jumping and dressage are included. An extensive show program runs. International polo tournaments also take place.
Nearby, the Riem racecourse adds to the equestrian atmosphere. It was built in 1897. The spectator stand and stables were added in 1972. They accommodated up to 350 thoroughbreds. Although not an Olympic venue, a special race was held. The “Olympiapreis” honored the Games.
Races still occur between April and November. Attendees can place bets. The Munich-Riem golf club operates a 9-hole course. It sits in the oval at the center of the racetrack. Non-members can book tee times. A second racecourse is nearby. Munich-Daglfing hosts harness racing. A large flea market is held every Friday and Saturday. Regular horse races also take place.
The Olympic Riding Stadium Munich stands as a testament to Munich’s sporting heritage. It is a vibrant center for equestrian sports and events. Its legacy from the 1972 Olympics endures.