Having taken charge of Epona back in September 2024, animal insurance expert Charles Perraudin is on a journey of discovery of the world of horses, with the backing of an experienced, 35-strong team. “In listening to our clients we’re able to gauge their passion and commitment for horses,” he says. “The relationship they’ve built up with them is very meaningful and we’re committed to continuing our activity in the sector.”

That activity is long-running. Epona came into being nearly 125 years ago, in 1901, initially concentrating on insuring military horses. It has offered a wide range of services since then, providing insurance for dogs, cats and livestock, among other animals. “Though there’s now a balance in financial terms between cats and dogs on the one hand and horses on the other, equine insurance remains our core activity.”

The market leader in Switzerland, Epona was in need of an event where it could host its clients and intermediaries. It was only natural, then, that it should forge, over eight years ago, a partnership with the largest indoor arena in equestrian sports. “The relationship between the CHI Geneva and Epona is a genuine one because we insure the competition,” continues Perraudin. “It’s a prestigious place for us to host our clients, and the sponsorship package on site includes visibility for our logo and a branded jump, not to mention a stand that gives us a presence at the event.”

Epona also organises an annual competition comprising seven regional events in French-speaking Switzerland, the winner of which takes part in national Jockey Club competitions at Palexpo. “The Epona Challenge gives us a genuine local presence and also means we can offer young riders the chance to compete at this amazing arena,” he says with no little passion in his voice.

So, how would Perraudin sum up the CHI Geneva in just a few words? “High standards, prestige and magic,” comes the answer. “As far as we’re concerned, coming and hosting our clients and partners at this event is truly the high point of our working year. Then there’s the fact that the Christmas period creates a captivating atmosphere. And as for the sport and seeing the horses compete in the Palexpo arena, it’s simply beautiful. I’d go as far as to say that it’s a magical world. The CHIG is style through and through.”

You can expect to see Perraudin and his team wearing big smiles on their faces, then, when they staff their stand at the exhibitors’ village, from 10 to 14 December.

Sophie Lebeuf