Equestrian sports activities have lengthy been related to self-discipline, ability, and an unmatched bond between rider and horse. Unlike different athletic pursuits, horse riding requires an intricate understanding of motion, stability, and communication, making it some of the distinctive and rewarding sports activities. While cities like Delhi and Bengaluru have well-established equestrian circuits, Coimbatore is steadily gaining momentum, with an rising variety of lovers taking curiosity in the game.
Among the drivers of this progress is Alexander Equestrian Club, which has been selling horse riding in the area since 2013. Founded by Sakti Balaji in collaboration with the Martin Lottery Group, the club has grown considerably over the previous 12 years. “I have had horses since my childhood and initially learned riding through traditional methods. Later, a professional trainer from Europe provided me with formal training, which inspired me to start a riding school in Sathyamangalam in 2010,” says Balaji. They finally arrange the club in Coimbatore.
From simply 5 horses and native trainers, the club has expanded to deal with 36 horses, together with 12 imported warmbloods. It now boasts a formidable roster of instructors, together with Olympian Imtiaz Ali, who trains college students for 12 days every month, and an Asian Games-qualified rider from 2014.
Sakti Balaji
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Increasing curiosity
Over the years, riders from the club have competed in nationwide and worldwide competitions, securing accolades in Germany and Portugal. “This year has been particularly remarkable for us,” says Balaji. “Our students have won 12 medals in national championships, including nine golds, two silvers, and one bronze.”
A rising variety of company professionals are additionally taking an curiosity in the game, with enrolments on the club rising steadily. “India’s strong performances in international events like the Asian Games have fuelled this enthusiasm. Additionally, our students’ success in national competitions has encouraged more people to explore equestrian sports,” he provides.
In an effort to make equestrian sports activities more accessible, the club is collaborating in a league-based format just like the Indian Premier League and Pro Kabaddi. “The Polo Premier League and the Equestrian Champions League will be launched as a Pan-India event, with the first season kicking off in Coimbatore,” Balaji says. “Teams from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh will compete, and corporate sponsorship will help bring the sport into the mainstream.” The league, set to happen from June 15 to July 15, is anticipated to supply a structured platform for younger riders to hone their abilities.
Hashini B
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The pleasure of riding
For 12-year-old Hashini B, a trainee at Alexander Equestrian Club, horse riding is more than only a sport. “I used to watch my brother ride every day, and that made me eager to try it out myself. Once I started, I fell in love with it,” she says. “Riding has a way of making you forget all your worries. Even if you have a hundred problems, everything fades away when you’re on a horse.”
Hashini has already made her mark in the game, successful medals on the nationwide degree. Now, she has her sights set on worldwide competitions, as turning 12 makes her eligible to compete globally.
Her mom, Thirumagal, remembers how the journey started. “We first came across Alexander Equestrian Club through a poster and decided to give it a try. Initially, we enrolled our son, Nithin, and later, Hashini joined after watching him ride. Over the years, both of them have excelled — Nithin won a gold medal at a national event, and Hashini won two golds and a silver at the Nationals in Delhi last December. She is particularly passionate about dressage and show jumping,” she says.
Hashini B along with her medals
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More inclusivity
Beyond coaching aggressive riders, Alexander Equestrian Club is additionally working to make equestrian sports activities more accessible. “This summer, we plan to adopt two or three underprivileged children and train them for national-level events. One of them, the son of our driver, has already begun training with us,” says Balaji.
Additionally, with the Indian authorities now recognising para-equestrian sports activities, the club is taking steps to organise competitions for differently-abled riders. “Most people are unaware that such individuals can now participate in equestrian events. We are committed to training them from scratch and helping them discover the joy of riding,” he provides.
Alexander Equestrian Club in Nava India, Coimbatore, will organise a Horse Riding Summer Camp from April 1 to June 1 for kids aged 4 to 16. Fee: ₹4,500. For more data, name 8489979999.
Published – February 25, 2025 01:39 pm IST
