Off the Clock with Edu: The Heart of Club de Campo

There are few venues on the Longines Global Champions Tour calendar that carry the sense of history, atmosphere and belonging quite like Club de Campo Villa de Madrid. More than just the home of the LGCT of Madrid, the iconic venue has long stood at the centre of the city’s sporting and social culture - a place where generations have grown up together through horses, sport, family and friendship.

In the latest episode of Off the Clock, hometown hero Eduardo Alvarez Aznar reflects on his lifelong connection to the club that helped shape his career and continues to play a major role in his family life today.

“I’ve been here since I was seven years old,” Edu shares in the interview. “I feel like at home here. Not only because of the show, but because it’s a place where I’ve grown up and where I have so many memories.”

That connection stretches far beyond the show ring. Club de Campo is woven into daily life in Madrid - a venue where world-class sport sits alongside swimming pools, tennis courts, golf courses, restaurants and family gatherings. It is as much a social institution as it is an equestrian landmark.

For Edu, some of his strongest memories come not only from major sporting moments, but from the everyday experiences shared with family and friends.

“We came here to do many other things, not only riding,” he explains. “It’s like a big family. Everyone knows me, but I also know them.”

Now, years after first riding ponies at the club, Edu is watching the next generation begin their own journey there as his children start riding at Club de Campo themselves - a full-circle moment that perfectly captures the spirit of the venue.

One of the most emotional moments in recent years came in this very arena when Edu retired his legendary horse Rocky in front of a home crowd. Set against the backdrop of the famous grandstands and historic arena entrance, the tribute became one of the defining moments of the 2025 season.

“It was the perfect place to do it,” he says. “Every time we walk into the ring through that corridor and hear the people cheering… it’s unbelievable. Sometimes I would just like to stop in the middle and listen. It feels like magic.”

>> Re-live Rocky's 2025 Retirement <<

As the Longines Global Champions Tour continues its 20th anniversary season, Madrid once again proves why it remains one of the sport’s most loved destinations - not only for elite competition, but for the lifestyle, community and tradition that surrounds it.

Watch the full Off the Clock with Edu interview and step inside one of the most iconic clubs in world sport.