Indian equestrian sport continues to make steady strides on the international stage, and one of its brightest rising stars is once again leading the charge. Niharika Singhania delivered another memorable performance in Europe after clinching gold at the CSI2* 1.35m Stal Hendrix Prix in Peelbergen, Netherlands, alongside her horse Mr. Thunder. The victory marks yet another milestone in the young rider’s growing international career and highlights India’s increasing presence in global show jumping competitions.
Competing against a strong field of international riders, Singhania showcased remarkable control, precision, and consistency across both phases of the event. Riding Mr. Thunder with confidence and composure, she clocked 37.31 seconds in Phase 1 and followed it up with an impressive 37.79 seconds in Phase 2 to secure the top podium finish.
The CSI2* competitions are recognised under the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), the governing body for international equestrian sport, and attract experienced riders from across Europe and beyond. Events at Peelbergen Equestrian Centre in the Netherlands are particularly regarded as important fixtures on the European show jumping circuit due to their technical courses and elite-level participation. Singhania’s triumph comes at a time when Indian equestrian athletes are steadily gaining recognition in international competitions. Over the past few years, Indian riders have increasingly competed at European circuits to gain exposure against world-class talent and develop experience in highly competitive environments.
Adding emotional significance to the achievement, Raymond Group Chairman Gautam Singhania took to social media to celebrate his daughter’s victory and her growing contribution to Indian sport on the international stage. His message resonated strongly across the sporting community, with many praising Niharika’s discipline and dedication in a sport that demands years of technical training, physical balance and mental resilience.
The gold medal in Peelbergen also continues what has already been a strong run of performances for the Mumbai-based rider. Earlier, Singhania produced another notable result at the National Equestrian Premier League (EPL) in Bengaluru, where she finished joint first in the prestigious 1.40m Show Jumping category. The EPL, organised by the Embassy International Riding School (EIRS), has become one of India’s leading equestrian competitions and regularly features some of the country’s best riders. This year’s edition witnessed participation from over 130 competitors from across India competing on a technically demanding course designed to test speed, rhythm, and accuracy.
Singhania shared the top honours alongside Yash Nensee and Yashaan Khambatta after all three riders completed flawless clear rounds in the final standings. Niharika rode Sir Lancelot during the competition, while Nensee partnered D’Amour du Nenuphar, and Khambatta competed aboard Lord Stakkolensky.
Singhania, along with several other top Indian riders, trains under the Amateur Riders’ Club (ARC) in Mumbai. ARC has emerged as one of India’s most successful equestrian institutions and has played a significant role in nurturing talent capable of competing at national and international levels.
India’s equestrian journey has grown considerably over the last decade. The country has increasingly invested in infrastructure, training, and international exposure for riders across disciplines such as dressage, eventing, and show jumping. The Equestrian Federation of India has also worked toward increasing participation and competitive opportunities for younger athletes aiming to break onto the global circuit.
For Niharika Singhania, however, the focus appears firmly fixed on progression rather than headlines. Her recent performances in Europe and India suggest a rider steadily building confidence and experience at elite-level competition. More importantly, her achievements are inspiring a younger generation of Indian riders to believe that global success in equestrian sport is increasingly within reach.
With international podium finishes already under her belt and growing momentum behind her career, Niharika Singhania is quickly
