New Delhi, Jan 6 (NationPress) The Equestrian Federation of India (EFI) is excited to announce that it will host the Para-Dressage World Challenge 2025 in October. This event will take place for the first time at the Modi Equestrian Academy in Meerut (North Zone) and Surge Stables in Bengaluru (South Zone). The EFI has a vision to establish India’s first-ever representation at the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics. In line with this goal, the EFI recently organized the initial FEI-endorsed Para-Dressage Workshop at Modi Equestrian Academy on January 4-5.
This two-day workshop featured an engaging visual presentation, which introduced attendees to the nuances of para-dressage, followed by a demonstration that highlighted the skills and teamwork integral to the discipline. Participants gained an extensive understanding of the unique requirements of para-dressage, including the specialized equipment and the specific horse characteristics needed for para-equestrian events—these include a calm demeanor, adequate experience, and exceptional trainability to meet the unique needs of riders.
The workshop also showcased specially trained para-dressage horses, giving participants valuable, firsthand experience.
Para-dressage is significant as it is the only equestrian discipline included in the Paralympics. The EFI is committed to fostering a robust pathway for India to shine by identifying talent and building experience through multiple para-dressage events across the nation.
EFI Secretary-General Col. Jaiveer Singh stated, "This workshop marks a vital advancement in promoting inclusivity within Indian equestrian sports, setting the stage for India to not just participate but to excel globally. By establishing a structured and sustainable ecosystem for para-athletes, we foresee consistent Indian representation at international events, culminating in the Paralympics.
"The introduction of para-dressage presents an extraordinary opportunity for athletes to make history and instill immense pride in India. This initiative transcends mere participation; it is about cultivating champions and elevating India’s position in the realm of para-sports."
As para-dressage becomes an official discipline under the EFI starting in 2025, the workshop is dedicated to preparing India for prestigious global para-dressage competitions, including the Para Dressage World Challenge 2025.
Representatives from 18 equestrian clubs across India participated in the workshop, which was led by renowned para-dressage coach Clive Milkins. With over 30 years of experience and a history of coaching Paralympians, including eight-time Paralympic gold medallist Sophie Christiansen, Milkins offered invaluable insights to the attendees, focusing on nurturing local Indian talent and raising awareness within the country.
While India achieved an impressive total of 29 medals at the Paris Paralympics, the EFI aims to capitalize on the unique opportunity that para-dressage presents as the sole equestrian event at the Paralympics, which is also the second-largest globally after the Olympics.
Para-dressage has been a part of the Games since 1996, providing a distinctive platform for creating history.
