City boy wins equestrian event, Olympian shares tips with riders
Times of India | 22 March 2025
12345 Kolkata: A Class X student, Siddharth Debgupta, won the Eastern India Equestrian Championship, which brought over 120 riders from across eastern India. The championship, held in the confined riding category, was hosted at Tollygunge Club. The thrilling event was followed by an interactive session by Anush Agarwalla, India's first Olympic dressage qualifier and winner of bronze medal at 2022 Asian Games.
Agarwalla (26) shared his equestrian journey from being a learner at the 130-year-old equestrian club in the city to turning into an international horse rider, who was conferred with Arjuna Award last year. "The pressure of training and competitions will always be there, but you ought to have the mental strength to move on successfully. Physical training and high mental stamina can be your key to success. I hope more ace equestrians will emerge from Kolkata and they will revive the glory of eastern India in this sport," Agarwalla told the young riders. A resident of Ballygunge and a La Martiniere alumnus, Agarwalla now lives in Germany. He was visiting his home in the city, when he attended the interactive session, held by the club.
For the young riders, like Siddharth, it was an inspiring session, discussing the challenges and rewards of the sport. A Calcutta International School student, Siddharth has so far participated in six equestrian competitions. "I have been riding horses since I was five. My dream is to represent India in the Olympics, just like Agarwalla," he said.
Ayanabh Debgupta, chairperson of the equestrian committee, Tollygunge Club, said, "Agarwalla's successful journey as an equestrian and his willingness to share the realities behind his success reenergised our equestrian community here. His mentorship is a beacon of hope for aspiring riders, and his insights will help revive and nurture the riding culture in eastern India."