The Junior National Championships 2024 in New Delhi marked a historic milestone for the Chennai Equitation Centre (CEC), as the young riders from the academy returned with an unprecedented 18 medals, setting a new record for the team. This exceptional achievement underscores the academy’s commitment to nurturing world-class equestrian talent and maintaining its dominance in dressage competitions.
Unparalleled Success at the Junior National Championships
The young riders from CEC excelled across multiple categories, showcasing their exceptional talent, dedication, and teamwork. The competition brought together the finest young equestrians from across the country, but the Chennai-based riders stood out for their consistent performances and remarkable synergy with their equine partners.
Medal Highlights
- Children 2 (10-12 years) Category:
- Team Gold: Kevin Gabriel (Soulmate), Eshan Sundaram (Fame of Viberty), Punav Suresh (Grandduke), and Hasini B (FT)
- Individual Gold: Eshan Sundaram riding Fame of Viberty
- Individual Silver: Kevin Gabriel riding Soulmate
- Children 1 Category:
- Team Gold: Shubh Chowdhari (FT), Pranav Deepak (Fame), Ananya Sajith Haridas (Knock-out), and Inaraa Milan Mehta (Soulmate)
- Individual Gold: Shubh Chowdhari riding FT
- Individual Silver: Pranav Deepak riding Fame
- Junior Category:
- Team Gold: Miraya Dadhabhoy (Knock-out) and Sankara Rathore (FT)
- Individual Silver: Sanskar Rathore riding FT
- Young Rider Category:
- Team Gold: Jaiveer Verma (Soulmate)
- Team Bronze: Samanna Everaa (Knock-out)
- Individual Silver: Jaiveer Verma riding Soulmate
Key Performances and Riders to Watch
Kevin Gabriel: A Star in the Making
Kevin Gabriel, a young rider from Chennai, has been making waves in the Indian equestrian scene since he began riding at the age of 10. Competing in the Children 2 category, Kevin played a pivotal role in securing the team gold with his horse Soulmate (competition name: Sechs Richtige). His outstanding performance also earned him an individual silver medal in dressage.
Kevin’s journey in equestrian sports has been nothing short of inspiring. In 2022, he won his first national competition and was honored with the Best Youngest Rider Award. Under the expert mentorship of Isabelle Futnani at CEC, Kevin has continued to hone his skills, amassing a total of 21 medals and three trophies in his young career.
Reflecting on his success, Kevin said, “Winning at the Junior National Championships is a dream come true. It’s a testament to the bond I share with Soulmate and the relentless support from my coaches at CEC.”
Eshan Sundaram and Fame of Viberty
Another standout performer from the Children 2 category was Eshan Sundaram, who clinched the individual gold medal in dressage with his horse Fame of Viberty. Eshan’s poised and precise riding style was a key factor in the team’s overall victory.
Miraya Dadhabhoy and Knock-Out
In the Junior category, Miraya Dadhabhoy displayed exceptional skill and composure, leading her team to a gold medal alongside teammate Sankara Rathore. Riding her trusted horse Knock-Out, Miraya’s performance was a highlight of the championships.
Young Riders’ Category: Emerging Talent
The Young Rider category saw Jaiveer Verma and his horse Soulmate secure a team gold and an individual silver medal, demonstrating the depth of talent at CEC. Meanwhile, Samanna Everaa contributed to the team’s bronze medal finish, rounding out an impressive performance by the young riders.
The Role of Chennai Equitation Centre in Promoting Equestrian Excellence
World-Class Training Facilities
The Chennai Equitation Centre is renowned for its state-of-the-art training facilities, designed to provide young riders with the best resources to excel in their sport. From advanced riding arenas to well-maintained stables and dedicated coaching programs, CEC offers an environment conducive to skill development and success.
Experienced Instructors
CEC’s success can be attributed to its team of experienced instructors, led by Isabelle Futnani, a seasoned equestrian coach with a deep understanding of the sport. Isabelle’s guidance has been instrumental in shaping the careers of riders like Kevin Gabriel and ensuring that the academy remains a powerhouse in Indian equestrian sports.
Focus on Horse-Rider Partnership
At CEC, the emphasis is on building a strong partnership between the horse and rider. As Isabelle explains, “In horse riding, the partnership between horse and rider is essential to perform at the top. It is a great sport for children and juniors to make them mentally and physically strong as well as build a trusted relationship with their 500 kg sport-partner.”
Lessons Beyond the Riding Arena
Participating in equestrian sports teaches young riders valuable life skills that extend far beyond the riding arena.
- Discipline and Commitment: Training for equestrian competitions requires unwavering dedication and discipline, helping riders build a strong work ethic.
- Resilience: Riders learn to overcome setbacks and challenges, both in competitions and during training.
- Teamwork: In team events, riders develop a sense of camaraderie and learn to work together to achieve a common goal.
- Empathy and Responsibility: Building a bond with their horses teaches riders to be empathetic and responsible caregivers.
India’s Growing Presence in Equestrian Sports
India’s performance in equestrian sports has improved significantly in recent years, thanks to academies like CEC that focus on nurturing talent. Events like the Junior National Championships provide a platform for young riders to gain exposure and compete at a high level, laying the groundwork for international success.
With consistent investment in infrastructure and training, India is poised to make a mark on the global equestrian stage.
What’s Next for CEC and Its Riders?
After their stellar performance at the Junior National Championships, the young riders from CEC have set their sights on future goals, including:
- International Competitions: Many of CEC’s riders aim to represent India at international events, such as the Asian Games and World Equestrian Championships.
- Skill Development: The academy will continue to focus on refining the skills of its riders, ensuring they remain competitive at the highest levels.
- Expanding Access: CEC plans to introduce more young riders to the sport through outreach programs and beginner-friendly initiatives.
Comprehensive Results from the Junior National Championships 2024
Age Group: Children 2 (10-12 years)
- Team Gold:
- Kevin Gabriel (Soulmate)
- Eshan Sundaram (Fame)
- Punav Suresh (Grandduke)
- Hasini B (FT)
- Individual Gold: Eshan Sundaram (Fame)
- Individual Silver: Kevin Gabriel (Soulmate)
Age Group: Children 1
- Team Gold:
- Shubh Chowdhari (FT)
- Pranav Deepak (Fame)
- Ananya Sajith Haridas (Knock-out)
- Inaraa Milan Mehta (Soulmate)
- Individual Gold: Shubh Chowdhari (FT)
- Individual Silver: Pranav Deepak (Fame)
Age Group: Juniors
- Team Gold:
- Miraya Dadhabhoy (Knock-out)
- Sankara Rathore (FT)
- Individual Silver: Sanskar Rathore (FT)
Age Group: Young Riders
- Team Gold: Jaiveer Verma (Soulmate)
- Team Bronze: Samanna Everaa (Knock-out)
- Individual Silver: Jaiveer Verma (Soulmate)
Conclusion
The Chennai Equitation Centre’s record-breaking performance at the Junior National Championships 2024 is a testament to the academy’s unwavering commitment to excellence. With 18 medals, including multiple team and individual golds, the young riders have set a new benchmark for equestrian sports in India.
Under the mentorship of experienced coaches like Isabelle Futnani and backed by world-class facilities, CEC continues to be a beacon of hope for aspiring equestrians. As the sport grows in popularity, the achievements of these young riders will undoubtedly inspire future generations to take up the reins and strive for greatness in the equestrian arena.
This historic victory not only highlights the talent of CEC’s riders but also cements the academy’s position as a leader in the Indian equestrian landscape. The future of equestrian sports in India looks brighter than ever, with CEC at the forefront of this remarkable journey.
