In a thrilling finale of the Equestrian Premier League (EPL) held in Bengaluru, three of India's elite riders—Niharika Singhania, Yash Nensee, and Yashaan Khambatta—demonstrated remarkable skill and poise, resulting in a shared first-place finish on Saturday.
This tie in the prestigious 1.40m show jumping category showcases the impressive talent pool within Indian equestrian sports.
Facing a competitive field of over 130 riders from across the nation, the trio expertly navigated a challenging course without any faults. Their flawless performances made it impossible to distinguish a single winner, leading to a well-earned joint victory. The exceptional partnerships included Niharika Singhania with Sir Lancelot, Yash Nensee aboard D’Amour du Nenuphar, and Yashaan Khambatta riding Lord Stakkolensky, as reported by the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI).
Niharika's success in Bengaluru follows her recent gold medal achievement in Belgium, marking a season filled with outstanding performances.
Reflecting on her experience at the EPL, Niharika expressed, “It was a highly competitive class with remarkable riders, and I’m excited to share this top position with Yash and Yashaan. They both had excellent rounds. Every competition is a learning opportunity, and this result motivates me to train harder for future challenges.”
The accomplishments of these Mumbai-based riders highlight the emerging talent from clubs like the Amateur Riders’ Club (ARC), which earned several medals during the event. The EPL, organized by the Embassy International Riding School (EIRS), is a significant event in the national equestrian calendar, and the high-level performances of these riders reflect their commitment and expertise.
This victory not only represents a personal achievement for the athletes but also serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring equestrians, showcasing the increasing capabilities of young Indians in specialized international sports.
Niharika's success exemplifies the principles of dedication and hard work, proving that with rigorous training and passion, Indian athletes can thrive on both national and global stages.