The Indian Naval Academy (INA) equestrian team showcased an impressive performance at the Delhi Horse Show 2025, bringing home a total of 18 medals. The dedicated team, consisting of four naval cadets, achieved a medal haul that included 3 gold, 9 silver, and 6 bronze across various disciplines such as show jumping, tent pegging, and dressage. Their remarkable efforts earned them a commendable fourth-place finish overall, emphasizing their skill, determination, and discipline.
Held annually, the Delhi Horse Show is a prestigious event that attracts top equestrian talent from across the nation. This year’s competition saw the INA team embody the core values of teamwork and excellence, which are integral to the training and ethos of the Indian Navy. Captured in stunning images from the event, the cadets demonstrated their prowess as they navigated challenging jumps during the show jumping events. They showcased their finesse and technique in dressage routines, with one notable photograph depicting a cadet gracefully airborne over a hurdle adorned with the event’s branding, while another highlighted the focused expressions of the team as they executed a choreographed dressage performance in a sunlit arena.
This latest success comes on the heels of a strong performance at the Army Equestrian Championship in Bengaluru in 2024, where the INA team also secured an impressive 18 medals. A press release from the INA attributes their achievements to months of rigorous training under the guidance of experienced coaches. The team has honed not only their technical equestrian skills but also their physical and mental resilience, preparing them for the rigors of competitive equestrian sports.
Tent pegging, one of the standout events for the cadets, has deep historical roots in the Indian subcontinent, dating back to the Middle Ages. Originally utilized as a cavalry tactic in battles against elephant-mounted troops, tent pegging has evolved into a competitive equestrian discipline. India has become a significant player in this sport, frequently hosting and participating in international championships. The Delhi Horse Show 2025 upholds this rich tradition, drawing attention to the precision and skill required in equestrian sports.
The INA commemorated the cadets’ accomplishments in a celebratory event outside the Charger Equestrian building, a venue adorned with the Indian flag and equestrian-themed motifs. This achievement not only highlights the individual talents of the naval cadets but also underscores the Indian Navy’s commitment to promoting excellence in sports. Their success serves as an inspiration for future generations of equestrians, reflecting a bright future for the sport within the Navy and the nation at large.
