Stasya Pandya Qualifies for Junior National Equestrian Championship 2026
Mumbai's Stasya Pandya secures her spot in the Junior National Equestrian Championship 2026 after a flawless showjumping performance.
Mumbai's rising equestrian talent, Stasya Pandya, has officially secured her place in the upcoming Junior National Equestrian Championship (JNEC) 2026. Competing in the Showjumping discipline under the Children I category, Pandya demonstrated exceptional skill and precision to meet the rigorous national standards.
A Flawless Performance at ARC Mumbai
The qualification was cemented during the National Qualifiers held at the Amateur Riders Club (ARC) in Mumbai on October 8 and 9. Riding her horse, Cougar Des Fees, Stasya delivered a standout performance, successfully clearing the national qualifying requirements without incurring any penalties.
To earn a spot in the prestigious championship, riders must satisfy the Minimum Eligibility Requirement (MER). This demanding process requires athletes to successfully navigate a 12-jump course twice. Stasya’s journey to this milestone began in August 2026, where she achieved her first MER at the national qualifiers in Coimbatore, and she completed her second qualifying round this October in Mumbai.
The Bond Between Rider and Horse
Stasya’s success is a testament to the synergy between her and her equine partner, Cougar Des Fees. Reflecting on her achievement, the young rider expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming national stage.
"I’m really excited to have qualified for the Junior National Equestrian Championship this year. It feels great to see the hard work and training come together. Cougar has been a wonderful partner, and I’m grateful to my coach, Bobin Tshering, for guiding me through the process," said Stasya Pandya.
She also credited her training environment at the Amateur Riders Club and the support from her school, Billabong High International School, Malad, for helping her prepare for the intensity of national-level competition.
Expert Coaching and Rigorous Training
A significant factor in Stasya's progression is her coach, Bobin Tshering. An experienced mentor in both showjumping and dressage, Tshering focuses on a holistic approach to equestrianism, emphasizing:
- Advanced riding techniques
- Mental discipline and confidence
- The development of a strong partnership between horse and rider
The structured facilities at the Amateur Riders Club have provided the essential environment for Stasya to refine her consistency over jumps and build the technical expertise required to compete against the country's best.
Looking Ahead to December 2026
With her qualification finalized, Stasya Pandya now turns her focus toward the Junior National Equestrian Championship 2026, scheduled for December. Competing in the Children I Showjumping category, she aims to test her mettle against India's top young equestrian talent and continue her upward trajectory in the sport.