Grand Equestrian Showcase at AMU’s Historic Riding Club: Celebrating 135 Years of Excellence in Horsemanship and Heritage
TNN News : In a stirring display of heritage, athleticism, and pageantry, the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) celebrated the 135th Annual Horse Show—Equestriania-2025—at its historic Riding Club, reaffirming the University’s rich legacy in sporting and equestrian excellence. Held at the University Athletic Ground, the event saw enthusiastic participation from over 125 student riders, both male and female.
AMU Vice Chancellor Professor Naima Khatoon attended the function as Chief Guest. In her address, she emphasized the importance of sportsmanship, stating that participation should be prioritized over the binary of victory or defeat. She lauded the rich legacy of the AMU Riding Club and appreciated the performances of students who have consistently brought national recognition to the University. She urged young riders to continue representing AMU with pride on national and international platforms.
Guest of Honour Mr. Haji Zaheer, CEO of Al-Hamd Agro Foods Pvt. Ltd., commended the spirited efforts of students and trainers, and announced a generous donation of ₹5 lakh to support the Riding Club’s future endeavours.
Distinguished attendees included Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor M. Mohsin Khan, AMU Registrar Mr. Mohammad Imran (IPS), Games Committee Secretary Professor S. Amjad Ali Rizvi, Additional Director General Mr. Abhishek Kumar, AMU Court Member Mr. Zia Ur Rehman, and Mr. Rakesh Nandan of Heritage School.
Professor Mohsin Khan highlighted the traditions of horsemanship at AMU that instil discipline, unity, and resilience, while also calling for teamwork and mutual cooperation among students to preserve these valued traditions.
The event commenced with a ceremonial flag hoisting on horseback by Riding Coach Imran Khan Shibli, followed by a series of captivating competitions such as Individual and Team Tent Pegging, Pole Bending, Show Jumping, Musical Ride, Carrot Cutting, Mount and Dismount, Hacks (Ladies and Men), Ball and Bucket, Ball Picking, Musical Chair, and Fancy Dress. A march past and standing salute also marked the formal opening.
Among the top performers, Sophia excelled in the Individual Lance category, while Ariba Wasi won in both Team Lance and Individual Sword events. Hujjat and Abdullah impressed in the Indian File, and Aleena Chaudhary stood out in the Fancy Dress competition. Mohammad Bilal emerged victorious in Ball Picking (Freshers Boys), with Majid winning the Mount and Dismount. Areeb Khan and Tanima won in Pole Bending (Boys and Girls respectively), while Irtiga Uroos claimed the Musical Chair event (Freshers Girls). Subhan and Amania triumphed in Carrot Cutting (General and Senior Girls categories, respectively), Ali Ameer impressed in Show Jumping, Areeb Wasi shone in the Musical Ride, and the duo of Taha and Kulsum won in the Hacks event.
Club Captain Mohammad Umair Khan extended the vote of thanks and delivered stellar performances in Tent Pegging (individual and triple formats) and Show Jumping, earning admiration from the audience.
The event was judged by Mr. Asad Yar Khan, Mr. S.R.K. Sherwani, and Mr. Umar Mujtaba. The program was anchored by Yusuf Labib, Nauman Qasim, Hania Khan, and Amna Jameel.
Professor Wasif Mohammad Ali, President of the Riding Club, welcomed the guests and reflected on the Club’s enduring legacy. The 135th Annual Horse Show was not merely a competition but a celebration of a glorious tradition that continues to thrive—echoing values of discipline, courage, and excellence that define AMU’s sporting spirit.
Public Relations Office
Aligarh Muslim University
