AI Generated Summary
- In a proud moment for Punjab and Indian equestrian sport, 17-year-old Avik Bhatia has been selected to represent India in showjumping at the Asian Youth Games 2025, to be held in Bahrain.
- Over the years, he has steadily ascended the ranks — being crowned ‘Best Rider’ at the Delhi Horse Show for three consecutive years and earning a promotion from the children’s category to the young riders’ level.
- As he prepares to don the tricolour once again, Avik embodies the new face of Indian equestrianism — global in training, grounded in Punjab’s soil, and galloping toward a bright future.
In a proud moment for Punjab and Indian equestrian sport, 17-year-old Avik Bhatia has been selected to represent India in showjumping at the Asian Youth Games 2025, to be held in Bahrain. This marks a historic first — no rider from Punjab has ever represented India in showjumping at the Asian Youth Games before.
Hailing originally from Balachaur in Nawanshahr district, Avik has galloped his way to the top of the national merit list, following a stellar season filled with victories. With over 40 medals from international, national, and regional competitions during 2024–25, he has emerged as one of India’s brightest young equestrian talents.
Though he now trains abroad, Avik’s roots run deep in Punjab. He spent the first four years of his life in Nawanshahr before his family relocated to Gurgaon. His father, Naveen Bhatia, the regional head of Fortis Healthcare Ltd., recalls how his son’s bond with animals began early.
Avik began riding at the age of seven, showing remarkable discipline and passion from the outset. Over the years, he has steadily ascended the ranks — being crowned ‘Best Rider’ at the Delhi Horse Show for three consecutive years and earning a promotion from the children’s category to the young riders’ level.
Currently, Avik trains in the Netherlands, refining both his technique and horsemanship. His mount for the upcoming Games will be BB’s NirBhau (Nathan), a seven-year-old horse known for its agility and temperament — a fitting partner for a young man who carries Punjab’s resilient spirit.
Balancing academics with sport remains a challenge, as Avik is in Class XII. “In showjumping, it’s not just about the rider. The horse’s fitness is equally vital,” said his father. “Both need to stay injury-free and synchronized — mentally and physically.”
This is not Avik’s first international outing. In 2022, he represented India as part of the Children’s Team and clinched an individual bronze medal at the Asian Equestrian Federation Cup (Youth). His current selection for the Asian Youth Games signals a new milestone in his journey — one that places Punjab firmly on the equestrian map of Asia.
As he prepares to don the tricolour once again, Avik embodies the new face of Indian equestrianism — global in training, grounded in Punjab’s soil, and galloping toward a bright future.
