Fouaad Mirza, India’s ace equestrian, is gearing up for the Paris Olympics with a rigorous preparation plan. The Sports Ministry has approved his proposal to participate in five international equestrian events, which are crucial for his Olympic readiness.
In a statement released by the ministry, it was highlighted that the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) will extend support towards equipment procurement such as riding gear and other essentials for Fouaad.
Fouaad Mirza to participate in five events ahead of the Paris Games
Mirza, who is currently the first reserve in Olympic Group Rankings and second reserve in Olympic World Rankings for Paris, will receive financial assistance from the government to compete in Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) Events located in Kronenberg, Sopot, Marbach, Strzegom, and Baborowko. The assistance includes coverage for airfare, accommodation, entry fees, horse grooming expenses, and other necessary expenditures.
The 32-year-old athlete from Karnataka has already made a mark in the equestrian world. He became the first Indian to reach the final of eventing at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, finishing at a commendable 23rd place. His performance at Tokyo 2020 was a significant milestone for equestrian sport in India.
Mirza’s journey in equestrian sport has been marked by his deep understanding of the bond between the rider and the horse. He believes that true horsemen and women have a deep bond and understanding with their horses, which is essential to reach the pinnacle of this sport.
In addition to his championship horses, Dajara 4 and Seigneur Medicott, Mirza is also grooming Kenki, Kal, and Mokatoo for future competitions. Kenki, in particular, could be a prospect for future Olympics as his sister had competed for Sydney 2000 silver medallist Beat Mandli in team jumping at the Games.
The Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) also greenlit racewalker Priyanka Goswami’s proposal for training in Australia, where she will work under the guidance of coach Brent Vallance for an additional 34 days.
In para-sports, support was extended to para shooter Singhraj Adhana, para-athlete Pranav Soorma, and para-badminton players Nithya Sre and Mandeep Kaur for equipment, sparring partner fees, and physiotherapist fees. Rinku Hooda received financial assistance for participation in the World Para Athletics Grand Prix event.
Earlier last week, Asian Games medalist Anush Agarwalla was granted financial assistance by MOC.
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