With International Women's Day wrapped up a few days back, two young women, Inaara Mehta Luthria and Taarini Lodha, excelling in the field of equestrian shared their thoughts about the bond they have with their horses and their daily routine.
Talking about the representation of women in Indian equestrian sports, Inaara felt women's participation over the years in the niche sport has evolved.
"The representation of women in the Indian equestrian circuit has really evolved over the last few years. The fact that horse riding is the only sport where both women and men compete on equal terms has also helped and encouraged it."
Taarini was of the opinion that the exposure and support the women equestrians were getting was making all the difference.
"India is constantly growing in women equestrians through lots of exposure and support from their respective stables. Right now a huge percentage of the Indian equestrians are women which makes me extremely proud," she added.
She added that her biggest achievements in the field is probably clinching the Concours de Dressage competition and the National Championship.
When it comes to seeking inspiration and role models, Inaara revealed her father's influence.
"My biggest role model is my father , he has not only taught me my fundamentals in horse riding but he has also taught me life lessons through it."
For Taarini, it was Charlotte Fry for her passion and dedication which the former found commendable.
Taarini Lodha |
The bond between women and horses goes beyond the sport and has a certain uniqueness.
"Spending hours with your horse everyday , going through literally thick and thin together , being in stressful situations but also in fun ones , that’s what makes an unbreakable bond between a rider and her horse," stated Inaara.
Taarini was of the opinion that the bond led to a deep sense of happiness.
"The bond between a rider and horse is so unique because it allows you to experience a sense of true happiness and the silent understanding formed between the combination," she added.
Balancing training, fitness and mental preparation for competitions is always a challenge and both the young women equestrians felt the same.
"Time management skills is the holy grail when it comes to balanced training, fitness and my mental health , such that when it comes to competition time it’s like going on autopilot," Inaara said.
Taarini stated her focus was on training and workout.
"I mostly train 5 days a week and workout to maintain my stamina and strength as well. Before competitions , I prepare mentally by just relaxing and not overthinking it."
Inaara felt workouts were undoubtedly the most challenging part of her routines.
"My workouts are definitely the most challenging parts of my routine, but when I ride and I am able to see the importance and impact of them, it is the most rewarding feeling. Some challenging aspects for me , as a perfectionist , is not getting the movement accurately , which does happen quite a bit in this sport but is completely normal. Something really rewarding is finally seeing that everything was worth it," she added.
