India began its 2025 FEI Asian Continental Championships campaign in Pattaya with an impressive podium finish, clinching Equestrian silver in the Dressage Prix St. Georges (PSG) team event on the opening day.
It was a performance built on consistency, composure, and competitive scoring from all three riders Shruti Vora, Divyakriti Singh, and Gaurav Pundir who combined for a total of 204.059 to secure the second spot on the continental stage.
A Strong Start Led by Shruti Vora
At the heart of India’s silver-winning effort was the experienced Shruti Vora, riding Magnanimous, who delivered a polished test to score 70.882%, finishing second overall in the Prix St. Georges standings. Her routine reflected balance, rhythm, and precise transitions qualities that have defined her rise as one of India’s leading dressage riders over the past year.
Shruti’s score not only anchored India’s podium finish but also placed her just behind China’s Sarah Rao, who topped the field with a strong 71.382% on Geniaal. Shruti’s near-podium-leading performance reaffirmed her growing stature in Asian dressage circuits and sets her up as a major contender for the individual events ahead.
Consistent Support from Divyakriti Singh and Gaurav Pundir
India’s medal push was strengthened by two important performances from the young and improving duo of Divyakriti Singh and Gaurav Pundir.
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Divyakriti Singh, riding Improver, earned 67.118% to place 11th, showing a composed and technically sound ride that added valuable depth to India’s team score.
Gaurav Pundir, on Electro, contributed 66.059%, finishing 13th. His test reflected control and responsiveness, helping India maintain pressure in the tight battle for silver.
Together, the three riders accumulated a total of 204.059, giving India a comfortable cushion over the next challenger while keeping the team competitive at the top.
Thailand Takes Gold, India Close Behind
Hosts Thailand secured the gold medal with a total of 205.853, narrowly edging India by less than two points. Their riders displayed strong home-ground confidence and consistency across the line-up, enough to keep the advantage in a closely fought contest.
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China also recorded significant individual success through Sarah Rao’s winning ride but could not match the overall team consistency of Thailand and India in the PSG format.
A Boost for Indian Equestrian Sport
This medal marks an important milestone for India’s equestrian programme, particularly in dressage — a discipline that has seen steady growth over the last few years. The performance in Pattaya highlights both maturity and depth in the Indian squad, signalling progress as India continues to establish itself among Asia’s top dressage nations.
With more events ahead in the Championships, including the Intermediate and Grand Prix levels, India’s riders will carry the confidence of a strong opening day. For now, the silver medal stands as a well-earned reward for disciplined training, spirited riding, and the rising standards of Indian equestrian sport.
India’s campaign has begun on the podium and the next few days promise even more high-quality competition as the team looks to build on this bright start.
