NEW DELHI: Chennai teenager Shubh Chowdhari produced an impressive performance on debut in the Young Rider category at the Junior National Equestrian Championships in New Delhi, winning two gold medals and one silver. The championship was held from December 26 to January 4.
The 15-year-old, who previously dominated the Under-14 section with three gold medals last season, competed against older riders in one of the most competitive divisions in the country. He took part in both Dressage and Show Jumping and was praised for his composure and technical control.
Riding Balu for Chennai Equestrian Centre, Shubh finished with a score of 71.636 to secure silver in the Young Rider Dressage Individual event, and contributed to the team’s gold medal in the Dressage Team event with the same score. He also won gold in the Show Jumping Team (110–115 cm) event on Foggy Bottom.
He placed fourth in Dressage Freestyle with 66.338 points and fourth in Show Jumping Individual on Freezing Rain.
Shubh also took part in the FEI Show Jumping Championships, meeting the Minimum Eligibility Requirement for the Youth Olympic Games 2026.
Reflecting on the step up in competition, Shubh said, “Moving into a higher category was challenging, but I have learnt to trust my training, my horse and my team. I am grateful to everyone who supports me and pushes me to improve.”
His mentors and coaches described his progress as the result of structured training and discipline. Olympian Imtiaz Anees said Shubh had “handled pressure with maturity at a young age” and praised his work ethic. Dressage coach Isabelle Hasledar added that competing in the top age division at 15 highlighted his technical development and commitment to classical training.
Over the past two seasons, Shubh has also recorded strong national and international performances, including a podium run in the FEI Children’s Classics silver tour and selection in the shortlist for the Asian Youth Games 2025.