Bengaluru, June 25: Shubh Chowdhari, a Grade 12 student at GIIS Whitefield, has secured a place among the top five riders being considered by the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI) to represent the nation in Show Jumping at the Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026. This remarkable achievement places Shubh among India’s most promising young equestrian athletes and marks a significant milestone in his sporting journey, reflecting his dedication, perseverance, and excellence in the sport.
Originally from Chennai, the 16-year-old equestrian competes in the Under 18 category and has established himself across all three Olympic equestrian disciplines: Show Jumping, Dressage, and Eventing.
Shubh secured this recognition through his performance at the FEI Competition held at Embassy International Riding School, Bengaluru, in October 2025. Partnering with his horse, Foggy Bottom, he successfully achieved the FEI eligibility benchmark in the highly competitive 130 cm Category A Show Jumping class, meeting the standards required for consideration for the Youth Olympic Games.
The current stage is part of a rigorous selection process overseen by the EFI and the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI). The shortlisted riders will continue to be evaluated based on recent performances, consistency of results, competitiveness at international CSI1 and CSI2 events, and overall merit, with one rider ultimately earning the opportunity to represent India at the Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026.
Balancing elite sport with academics, Shubh has received continuous support from GIIS Whitefield throughout his journey. The school has worked closely with him to ensure he remains on track academically while pursuing his sporting ambitions, including during periods of overseas training and competition.
Speaking on the achievement, Shubh Chowdhari said,
“Being shortlisted for the Youth Olympic Games is a proud milestone, but my journey is far from over. The sport has taught me discipline, resilience, and dedication. I am grateful to my parents, coaches, horse, and school for their unwavering support. My goal is to continue improving and earn the opportunity to represent India on the biggest stage.”
Expressing their pride, Shubh’s parents said,
“Seeing Shubh shortlisted for the Youth Olympic Games makes every sacrifice worthwhile. We are proud not only of this achievement but of the discipline, resilience, and determination he has shown throughout his journey. We are grateful to everyone who has supported him along the way.”
Commenting on the milestone, Mr. Manoj Kumar Tiwari, Principal, GIIS Whitefield, said,
“Shubh’s shortlisting for the Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026 is a proud milestone for the entire GIIS Whitefield community. His achievement reflects years of hard work, discipline, and determination, as well as the courage to pursue excellence from a young age. We congratulate Shubh and thank his parents, coaches, and mentors for their invaluable support. We wish him the very best as he continues striving to represent India on the global stage.“
As Shubh prepares for the next phase of international competitions and evaluations, the entire GIIS Whitefield community stands behind him, celebrating a journey that exemplifies dedication, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence both in academics and sport.