The names of the most successful riders of all time are engraved on the famous winners’ board at the edge of the CHIO Aachen Main Stadium. Women and men. Both genders compete against each other in the same classes at the biggest equestrian show in the world, without an identifiable advantage for either one. Equality has been the living reality in the equestrian sport for some time already. A matter of course that doesn’t have to be questioned. However, the same doesn’t apply for all areas and regions across the globe, because women and girls are still frequently disadvantaged even today. Plan International, the official charity partner of the CHIO Aachen, would like to change this sustainably and long-term.

“It is our goal to lend girls and young women a voice and involve them in decision-making processes so that they have the chance to enfold their potential and lead a free and self-determined life. That is the true meaning of equality for us,” said Kathrin Hartkopf, Spokeswoman for the management of Plan International.

“We would like to make a contribution towards further pushing equality,” said Stefanie Peters, President of the organisers of the CHIO, the Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein e.V., “this is why we are gladly partnering Plan International.” At the CHIO Aachen from September 10^th-19^th, Plan International will be represented with a stand to draw attention to the manifold projects in favour of children and especially girls all over the world. For example, various riders will pop by for an autograph session. One of them is the eventing super star, Ingrid Klimke, who has already been asserting herself for Plan International for years and also supports a godchild through the organisation. “I have two daughters myself and I know how important it is to support them so that they can enfold their potential. Plan International gives children and above all girls from all over the globe the opportunity to do just that. That is why I support Plan International and I think it is fantastic that the CHIO Aachen is also committing itself to this important theme,” Ingrid Klimke stated.

A Plan International obstacle will be integrated into several courses of the CHIO Aachen to draw attention to the official CHIO Aachen charity partner. The organisers will also ask for financial support for the projects of Plan International during the traditional CHIO Aachen Opening Ceremony. It will also be possible to donate to the charity via the following website www.plan.de/chioaachen, the overall status of the donation campaign can also be viewed here. The proceeds of the donation page will go in aid of Plan’s Girls Fund, the aid project which promotes the protection, education, political participation, health and income support of girls and young women worldwide, so that they can enjoy equal rights.