Mumbai’s Hriday Chheda to Represent India in Dressage at Asian Games
Hriday Chheda, a 25-year-old rider nurtured by Mumbai’s Amateur Riders’ Club, aims to shine for India in dressage at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.
In a bid to bring glory to India at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, Hriday Chheda, a 25-year-old equestrian talent from Mumbai, is set to represent the nation in the discipline of dressage.
Hriday, who has been groomed by the Amateur Riders’ Club, stands as one of the four riders who have earned the privilege of representing India in dressage at the prestigious event.
His journey in the world of equestrian sports commenced at a tender age of 6, and since then, he has dedicated a significant part of his life to mastering the art of horseback riding. Hriday’s journey took him across the globe, where he honed his skills under the guidance of renowned trainers. Notably, he trained with experts like Hannes Baumgart and spent time in England, working alongside British Olympian Emile Faurie. In 2022, he further enriched his expertise by training with Leonie Bramall and is currently based at Pamfou dressage in France.
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Hriday will enter the Asian Games astride his horse, Emerald. Despite having less than a year of partnership with Emerald, he has managed to develop a remarkable rapport with the horse, an achievement in itself.
Among all Indian riders, Hriday boasts one of the most impressive performance records in all three dressage tests featured in the Asian Games.
Expressing his excitement and determination, Hriday stated, “Representing India on the international stage has been my lifelong dream, and I’m hoping to win and make the country proud given this opportunity.”
Shyam Mehta, President of the Amateur Riders’ Club, commented on Hriday’s inspiring journey, stating, “Hriday Chheda exemplifies the incredible potential within our young athletes. His passion, dedication, and early success bode well for India’s equestrian future.”
Milan Luthria, Equestrian Chairman at the Amateur Riders’ Club, acknowledged Hriday’s relentless efforts, saying, “Hard work, dedication, and perseverance have helped Hriday reach where he is. Team ARC is proud of him, and we wish him well.”
While India’s past achievements in equestrian dressage at the Asian Games might be distant memories, the talent and promise displayed by Hriday have kindled hopes of a triumphant return to the podium.
-IANS
