Northern India’s equestrian scene is set to reach new heights with the official launch of the Northern Equestrian League (NEL) Thursday, a new initiative designed to spotlight emerging talent and elevate the sport of show jumping across the region.
As the season kicks off, NEL promises to be a dynamic platform for young riders, offering them structured opportunities to compete, grow, and gain national recognition.
With a vision to provide a structured, competitive, and progressive platform for riders across Northern India, the NEL will unfold across multiple venues and comprise a series of competitive legs. Designed by Eklavya Sharma, an internationally accredited Course Designer recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), the course reflects world-class standards in technical precision and competitive challenge.
The jury for the NEL is led by Col. Dushyant Bali, a highly respected figure in the Indian equestrian community. With extensive credentials as an FEI 2 judge in Eventing and Dressage, he also serves as a national judge in show jumping and endurance. Col. Bali is a certified national coach across eventing, dressage, and endurance, and has represented India as a competitive rider in both eventing and show jumping.
The league will commence on June 1 at H&Y Equestrian Academy, followed by subsequent legs on July 5 at Modi Equestrian Academy, July 12 at TARC Equestrian Centre, and July 26 at APRC.
Each leg will feature events across three height categories:
Category A: .70cm – .80cm
Category B: .90cm – 1m
Category C: 1.05m – 1.10m
Category D: 1.15m -1.20m
Open to club-registered riders and EFI individual members, the league allows each participant to compete with up to two horses per category. Points will be awarded based on placements at each leg, with final league standings determined from the rider’s best performances. The jump-off format will be implemented for all clear rounds, adding excitement and pace to the events.
Some of the prominent clubs confirmed to participate in the league include H&Y Equestrian Academy, The Show Jumpers Club, Verdinand Equestrian Academy, Modi Equestrian Academy, Sterling Stables, Apeejay Satya Group, G&G Equestrian, Pinnacle Equestrian Academy, and TARC Equestrian Centre.
Speaking at the launch, NEL spokesperson Sunny Vohra stated: “We are truly excited to launch the Northern Equestrian League, which has been thoughtfully crafted to offer a competitive yet nurturing platform for both emerging and seasoned riders in Northern India. Our vision is to raise the bar for show jumping in the region while fostering a vibrant, supportive community where talent is recognized, developed, and celebrated.”
The club emerging at the top of the points table after the final Grand Prix will be awarded the League Champion Trophy along with a cash prize. In addition, the top four clubs across all legs of the league will be recognized and rewarded based on their cumulative performance. Special recognitions will also be presented, including Best Rider in each category, determined through a comprehensive point-based system that reflects consistency and excellence throughout the league.
