RERS to host National equestrian championship from Jan 18 to 26 at Auroville

Puducherry: Red Earth Riding School (RERS) will host the National equestrian championship in dressage from January 18 to 26 on its school premises in Auroville. Announcing the championship, RERS founder and executive team member Jacqueline Kapur said teams and riders across India including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru will participate in the championship.

RERS's team will feature at least five competitors showcasing the depth of the talent nurtured at the school. The minimum age for participation is 14 years and there is no upper age limit embodying the spirit of equestrian sports where passion and skill have no age.

Dressage often linked to ballet on horseback is a discipline that demands the utmost precision and harmony between rider and horse. In a 60X20m arena, the duo performs a series of movements or 'tests' judged meticulously by a panel.

"These tests are not just a display of technical prowess, but a dance of mutual respect and understanding between the horse and rider. The goal is to achieve a performance that exudes effortlessness and grace, a true test of partnership and skill," said Jacqueline Kapur.

Adding to the excitement, the championship will feature freestyle dressage tests set to music. "Each rider will present a choreographed routine, showcasing their unique bond with their horses. This segment promises to be a visual and emotional treat, epitomizing the unity between the animals and their human partners," she said.

The unique aspect of equestrian sports, and particularly evident in dressage is the equal footing on which men and women compete. This level playing field is a testament to the sport's emphasis on skill and harmony over physical strength, offering a rare spectacle of gender equality in the competitive sports arena.

The championship boasts a panel of six judges including Romanov Yuri, a 5-star Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) (International Federation for Equestrian Sport) judge, India's only FEI 4-star judge Col Sunil Shivdas, and Maja Stukelji, a seasoned 4-star judge from Slovenia. Deniz Halide Erdil from Turkey will serve as the Stewart of the championship to ensure adherence to all regulations and rules.

The championship gains significance following India's recent triumph in equestrian sports. The country achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the gold team medal in dressage at the last Asian Games. "This victory has not only bolstered India's position on the international equestrian stage but also ignited a newfound interest and enthusiasm for the sport within the nation," she said.

Understanding the needs of the sport, most competitions will be held in the early morning, ensuring comfort for both horses and riders in south India's climate. Spectator entrance will be limited to maintain the concentration essential for both athletes and judges. RERS will post updates and results on the school's Instagram page.

RERS established in 2002 on a barren land is now a lush green paradise where over 40 horses, two camels, and 15 dogs coexist in harmony. The school has been promoting equestrian sports, and organizing annual competitions that draw crowds and competitors across the nation for the past two decades. The school team's success in national and international arenas speaks volumes of their dedication and skill.