Equestrian Star Hriday Chheda Receives Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Award

Mumbai, April 22 (NationPress) The equestrian star of the Amateur Riders’ Club (ARC), Hriday Chheda, has been awarded the Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Award for the year 2023–24. This esteemed honor, recognized as the highest sports award by the Government of Maharashtra, was graciously conferred by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, and Governor C. P. Radhakrishnan during a grand event in Pune.

This significant recognition represents a milestone in the realm of equestrian sports, with Hriday Chheda being the first recipient of such an honor. The Shiv Chhatrapati Award is awarded to individuals showcasing outstanding talent and achievements in sports, both nationally and internationally.

Hriday’s remarkable journey, from initial training at ARC to securing gold in the team dressage event at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, demonstrates his unwavering dedication to the sport. His contribution helped India end a 41-year gold medal drought in equestrian dressage.

In addition to his achievements, Hriday is committed to fostering the next generation of Indian equestrians. He actively mentors young riders through specialized training camps and personal coaching, imparting his international experience and technical knowledge. His passion is contributing to a robust future for Indian dressage, motivating young talents to excel at top levels.

The Amateur Riders’ Club (ARC) is one of the most established and largest private horse-riding clubs located in the Mahalaxmi Race Course, Mumbai. The club aims to cultivate the future of Indian equestrian athletes, offering an international-standard all-weather riding arena and expert coaches from both India and around the globe.

Upon receiving the Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Award, Hriday Chheda expressed, “It’s such an honor to receive the highest sports award from the state of Maharashtra. It’s rewarding to see our efforts recognized and to witness equestrian—a relatively lesser-known sport in our nation—gaining the acknowledgment it merits.”

Milan Luthria, president of Amateur Riders’ Club, stated, "Our Club has been established for over 80 years, and since the mid-70s, we have continuously enhanced our riding infrastructure at the Mahalaxmi Race Course, Mumbai. Hriday's accolade is a testament to the international standards we have developed over the years. Our riders are achieving accolades both domestically and internationally, and the ARC proudly represents equestrian sports in Maharashtra, providing a platform for all riders from the state to compete in optimal conditions."