Club member of Equestrian Federation of India
THE CHALLENGE
Over the years, India’s education policies have emphasised academics as the prominent marker of intellectual development and economic progress. Sports, arts and culture are accorded a lower priority in school and college curricula.
Physical training in schools mainly involves marching drills or physical training exercises, often just once a week. There is limited opportunity for children to explore the excitement of an individual or team sport. Only a few individuals with an overriding passion for sport and the resources and family support to sustain and nurture that interest, are able to realise their dream of becoming sportspersons.
The other challenge is the limited availability of skilled resources such as certified coaches and sports programme managers, and sports scientists such as physiotherapists, nutritionists, psychologists, and data analysts. This impedes the path to sporting excellence, especially in non-urban and remote regions of India. This dearth of professionals in sports-related careers affects the number and quality of sportspersons that the country produces.
KINGS EQUESTRIAN YOUTH SPORTS
Started in 2022 Kings Equestrian Youth sports aims to lay a strong foundation for India’s sporting future through the development of sports in schools and colleges. This is being done through inter-institutional competitions at all levels, sponsorship for athletes, grants to institutions for sporting infrastructure as well as provisions for equipment and training of coaches.
PROMOTION OF EQUESTRIAN SPORT AT GRASS ROOT LEVEL
The foundation takes immense pride in its collaboration with the Equestrian Federation of India, actively participating in the promotion of equestrianism at the grassroots level. Their forward-looking strategy is dedicated to elevating the sport’s standards in the country through comprehensive curriculum development, the provision of high-quality training, and the organization of regional competitions in strict adherence to regulations. Moreover, they generously host coaching camps designed for athletes across diverse equestrian disciplines, offering a range of clinics, seminars, and courses. These collective efforts are instrumental in nurturing world-class athletes with the capacity to represent the nation on the global stage.
Our involvement in the development of equestrian sports in India encompasses several key facets:
Grassroots Development: The foundation and trust prioritize the identification of young and promising individuals with an interest in equestrian sports at the grassroots level. This often involves scouting for talent within schools, local riding clubs, and communities.
Talent Identification: They actively engage in talent identification programs, where they assess riders and horse enthusiasts for their innate potential in equestrian sports. This meticulous process aids in pinpointing individuals who exhibit a natural aptitude for riding.
Training and Development: Once promising talent is identified, the foundation and trust provide these individuals with invaluable training and development opportunities. This encompasses coaching across various equestrian disciplines, including dressage, show jumping, and cross-country riding. The ultimate goal is to nurture these talents and enable them to continuously enhance their skills.
Access to Resources: To ensure that financial constraints do not impede talent development, they may facilitate access to horses, riding equipment, and facilities for deserving individuals who might lack the necessary resources themselves.
Competition Participation: The foundation and trust actively encourage talented riders to participate in a wide spectrum of equestrian competitions, spanning from local and regional events to national and international championships. This exposure is pivotal for their growth, enabling them to accumulate valuable experience and recognition.
Supportive Environment: Creating a supportive and motivating environment for young riders is paramount. This includes fostering a sense of community and mentorship, where experienced equestrians can serve as guiding lights, inspiring the younger generation to reach new heights.
Promotion of Equestrian Sport: They play an active role in promoting the sport of equestrianism within the region. This encompasses the organization of equestrian events, competitions, and awareness programs, all aimed at igniting interest and fostering greater participation.
Development of Coaches and Instructors: To sustain the momentum of grassroots development, they may also channel their efforts into the training and certification of coaches and instructors who possess the requisite expertise to effectively teach equestrian skills to aspiring riders.Participation in National and International Forums: As esteemed members of the Equestrian Federation of India, they wield a considerable influence in shaping policies and programs pertinent to equestrian sports at both the national and international levels.
SUMMARY
The foundation and trust play a pivotal role in nurturing raw talent and driving the growth of equestrian sports in India. Their commitment spans the entire spectrum, from identifying and training young riders to creating a supportive environment and actively promoting the sport. These concerted endeavors collectively contribute to the elevation of equestrian standards in the country and the development of athletes capable of making a mark on the global stage.
