EFI to host India’s first Para Dressage World Challenge in 2025

With a vision to create India’s first-ever representation at the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics, the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI) organised the first-ever FEI-backed Para Dressage Workshop at the Modi Equestrian Academy in Meerut on January 4 and 5.

This was held ahead of the Para Dressage World Challenge 2025 scheduled for October, also being hosted in India for the first time.

The two-day workshop included a visual presentation introducing participants to the discipline followed by a demonstration event showcasing the skills and collaboration essential to para dressage.

Attendees were provided with an in-depth understanding of the discipline, covering its unique requirements, specialised equipment, and the characteristics of horses suited for para-equestrian events such as suitable experience, calm temperament, and exceptional trainability to adapt to riders’ unique needs.

To enhance the experience, the workshop featured specially trained para dressage horses, allowing participants to gain first-hand insight.

Para dressage holds immense significance as the only equestrian category included in the Paralympics, and EFI aims to build a strong pathway for India to make its mark with talent identification and hosting multiple para dressage events across the country.

Commenting on the workshop, EFI Secretary General, Col. Jaiveer Singh, said, “This workshop was a critical step in advancing inclusivity within Indian equestrian sports, paving the way for India to not only compete but excel on the global stage.

"By establishing a structured, sustainable ecosystem for para athletes, we envision regular Indian representation at international events, culminating in the Paralympics. With the introduction of para dressage, we are unlocking a unique opportunity for athletes to make history and bring unparalleled pride to India," he added.

The workshop marked a significant step in introducing member clubs to the importance of identifying talent and enabling greater participation, as para dressage is officially included in the EFI disciplines effective 2025.

This effort focused on preparing India for global para dressage events, including the prestigious Para Dressage World Challenge 2025, which India will host at the Modi Equestrian Academy in Meerut (North Zone) and Surge Stables in Bengaluru (South Zone) in October.

Representatives from 18 equestrian clubs across India participated in the workshop led by world-renowned para dressage coach Clive Milkins.

With over 30 years of experience and a track record of coaching Paralympians, including eight-time Paralympic gold medallist Sophie Christiansen, Milkins brought his expertise and insights to the workshop, with a particular focus on showcasing and nurturing local Indian talent to raise awareness within the country.

While India achieved a record haul of 29 medals at the Paris Paralympics, the EFI aims to capitalise on the opportunity that para dressage presents as the only equestrian event at the Paralympics and the second-largest globally after the Olympics.

Having been part of the Games since 1996, para dressage offers a unique platform for creating history.