Equestrian sports have long been associated with discipline, skill, and an unmatched bond between rider and horse. Unlike other athletic pursuits, horse riding requires an intricate understanding of movement, balance, and communication, making it one of the most unique and rewarding sports. While cities like Delhi and Bengaluru have well-established equestrian circuits, Coimbatore is steadily gaining momentum, with an increasing number of enthusiasts taking interest in the sport.
Among the drivers of this growth is Alexander Equestrian Club, which has been promoting horse riding in the region since 2013. Founded by Sakti Balaji in collaboration with the Martin Lottery Group, the club has grown significantly over the past 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 eventually set up the club in Coimbatore.
From just five horses and local trainers, the club has expanded to house 36 horses, including 12 imported warmbloods. It now boasts an impressive roster of instructors, including Olympian Imtiaz Ali, who trains students for 12 days each month, and an Asian Games-qualified rider from 2014.
Sakti Balaji
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Increasing interest
Over the years, riders from the club have competed in national and international 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 growing number of corporate professionals are also taking an interest in the sport, with enrolments at 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 adds.
In an effort to make equestrian sports more accessible, the club is taking part in a league-based format similar to 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 take place from June 15 to July 15, is expected to provide a structured platform for young riders to hone their skills.
Hashini B
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The joy of riding
For 12-year-old Hashini B, a trainee at Alexander Equestrian Club, horse riding is more than just 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 sport, winning medals at the national level. Now, she has her sights set on international competitions, as turning 12 makes her eligible to compete globally.
Her mother, Thirumagal, recalls how the journey began. “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 with her medals
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More inclusivity
Beyond training competitive riders, Alexander Equestrian Club is also working to make equestrian sports 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 government now recognising para-equestrian sports, 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 adds.
Alexander Equestrian Club in Nava India, Coimbatore, will organise a Horse Riding Summer Camp from April 1 to June 1 for children aged 4 to 16. Fee: ₹4,500. For more information, call 8489979999.
Published – February 25, 2025 01:39 pm IST
