Maria Confraria with Jet Set the Big Winner of the 2023 Cardiga Equestrian Circuit.

The winners of the 4th edition of the Cardiga Equestrian Circuit were announced on December 17th at the Cardiga Awards Gala, which took place at the João Cardiga Equestrian Academy in Barcarena, Oeiras.

Maria Confraria, with Jet Set, was the big winner, receiving the most coveted prize of the night – the Pin Boxes Tack Box. In second place was Ema Ferreira, with Medronho do Zambujal, who received Celeris-Boots, and in third place Manuel Maia, with Melro da Sernadinha, who was presented with a Vila Galé Hotels Voucher.

This year, the celebration included 3 more winners in the Pony category. The overall winner was Beatriz Lobão, with Trinco, who received a Toque offered by Equigolden, and Mundo da Equitação offered the prizes for 2nd and 3rd places, respectively, to Mariana Mustra with Extreme and Caetana Andrade with Gin.

In addition to the presentation of trophies and practical prizes from HORSEFIRE to 13 categories (dressage ponies, dressage, paradressage, and dressage Special Olympics), the management honored the staff, some of whom were highlighted through an online vote – the Nominees of the Year Award.

José Lopes was recognized as Groom of the Year, João Pedro Cardiga as Trainer of the Year, and the Dedication Awards were given to Cândida Rodrigues and Elsa Assis for their commitment to their jobs. The Overcoming Award was presented to Caetana Andrade.

Lurdes Cardiga, president of the Academy, stated: “This Gala is a little preview of Christmas and has the main objectives of: bringing together the João Cardiga Equestrian Academy community to strengthen collaborative ties, develop values of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and commitment; remembering the Academy's mission – “Promoting Equestrianism For All, respecting differences”; celebrating the achievements made throughout the year; and honoring and thanking those who are with the institution and contribute to its development.”

We believe we have achieved these objectives by bringing together seven brands to reward the winners and staff. Our sincere thanks go to PIN BOXES, CELERIS BOOTS, VILA GALE HOTELS, HORSEFIRE, O MUNDO DA EQUITAÇÃO, CULTO DA IMAGEM, and EQUIGOLDEN. Thank you for filling the faces of the 56 winners and the 25 Academy staff members with smiles.

Never before has “Equestrianism for All” made so much sense and added so much to society.”