Junior National Equestrian from Dec 15

Bangalore, Dec 12 (UNI) More than 200 riders will vie for top honours in the Junior National Equestrian Championship, hosted by Embassy International Riding School here from December 15 to 30.

Briefing newspersons, School founder Jitu Virwani said the event promises a thrilling face-off amongst top names in Indian Equestrian spot.

''Over 200 horses and most of the top-level Indian riders who had been shortlisted for the ongoing Doha Asian Games including defending champion in Young Rider category Nadia Haridass, Aliya Dasgupta, Anvir Nanda as well as emerging equestrian talents like Aviva Bidapa, Karan Virwani, Adam Oberoi among others can be seen in action,'' he said.

Besides, five International teams from Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Russia and Iran would also be competing in the Championship, he added.

South India Equestrian Association President M M Venkatachalam, said, ''India is playing a definitive role in shaping a number of budding and aspiring sportspersons into international champions and there was a growing interest among children for equestrian sport.

Developing the potential of these young riders has been a huge challenge and it is important that they have the best possible support network to help them realise their full potential'', he added.

The Championship would be conducted in four disciplines of Dressage, Show Jumping, one-day event and tent pegging, across four categories -- Young Riders (16 to 21 years), Junior Riders (14 to 18 years), children I rider (12 to 14 years) and Children II Rider (10 to 12 years).

The event also includes National Equestrian Championship, novice Jumping and medium Grade Jumping which was open to riders from 12 years and above, Championship Show Jumping for Young Riders (16 to 21 years).

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