India Athletes Create History, Finish FEI Asian Equestrian Championship With Five Medals

In Eventing, Ashish Limaye, an athlete under the Target Asian Games Group (TAGG) scheme, won an individual gold medal and contributed to the team silver alongside teammates Shashank Singh, Kataria, and Shashank Kanmuri.

In Dressage, Shruti Vora emerged as India’s standout performer, earning three silver medals—one in the individual category, another in Intermediate Freestyle–I, and the third in the Dressage Team event. The Indian team, comprising TAGG athlete Divyakriti Singh, Gaurav Pundir, and Shruti, secured the team silver medal.

“This win was very emotional for us as the last Asian Games were disappointing. It felt like a huge redemption and a big relief," Ashish Limaye told SAI Media. He expressed gratitude to his horse, saying, “My horse ‘Willy Be Dun’ is a 13-year-old Anglo-European. This gold would have been impossible without him, as he consistently gave his best."

A 16-member delegation, including 6 athletes, 6 grooms, 2 coaches, and one vet and farrier each, travelled to Pattaya for the championship with expenses covered by the government. The expenditure, amounting to Rs 2.73 crore, was provided through the Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSF) scheme, covering travel, visas, insurance, boarding and lodging, entry fees, mandatory veterinary tests, and essential equipment.

“Equestrian is an expensive sport, and having the Government of India support us through schemes like TAGG and TOPS makes a significant difference," Divyakriti told SAI Media. “As a TAGG athlete, I was able to compete successfully in Europe throughout the year and conclude with a silver at the Asian Championships."

With PTI Inputs

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