India Hosts Asian Equestrian Cup After 14-Year Hiatus

The Equestrian Federation of India announces the return of the Asian Equestrian Federation Cup to India, marking the first international equestrian event hosted in 14 years. The competition, held at Surge Stable in Bengaluru, will feature youth riders from 11 countries and aims to provide world-class opportunities for Indian participants.

The Equestrian Federation of India (EFI) has announced the much-anticipated return of international equestrian competitions to India after a 14-year gap with the Asian Equestrian Federation Cup- Youth (AEF Cup- CSIY-B). Slated to take place from October 11-13 at Bengaluru's Surge Stable, this event is a premier youth showjumping competition approved by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI). The occasion is all set to provide Indian youth riders with high-caliber competitive opportunities right at home.

The competition follows a borrowed horse format and caters to riders aged 16-21 years with a jumping level capped at 115 cm. Host nation India will be represented by E Suryaa Aaditya and Avik Bhatia, who emerged victorious in the selection trials conducted at Bengaluru on Thursday. Riders from ten other countries, including Kuwait, Malaysia, and Pakistan, among others, will also showcase their talent as each country will have one representative rider.

Col Jaiveer Singh, Secretary General of the EFI, emphasized the importance of hosting this prestigious FEI-approved tournament. "The event is a significant milestone not only for EFI's vision but also for the larger equestrian community in India. It allows homegrown talent to compete against international riders in familiar conditions, elevating our standing in the global equestrian market," said Singh. Both Aaditya and Bhatia have impressive records; Aaditya being a silver medalist in Dressage and Jumping, and Bhatia earning accolades as the best junior and young rider at various national equestrian events.

(With inputs from agencies.)