Patiala, Jan. 26 — Junior equestrian Amitoj was presented with a Recognition Award on Republic Day for his performance at the national level, following his medal-winning showing at the Junior National Equestrian Championship held in December.
The award was handed over by Punjab Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains during the district-level Republic Day समारोह in Patiala. MLA Ajitpal Singh Kohli, MP Dr. Dharamvir Gandhi and Deputy Commissioner Varjeet Walia were also present at the event.
Amitoj was part of the team that won a silver medal at the Junior National Equestrian Championship, hosted at the Delhi Equestrian Centre in Delhi Cantt. The competition drew young riders from across the country.
Speaking at the ceremony, Bains said Amitoj’s achievement reflected dedication and disciplined training. “It is encouraging to see young athletes from Punjab performing at the national level and bringing recognition through their hard work,” he said.
Before the national championship, Amitoj cleared the national selection trials with clear rounds within the prescribed time at competitions held in Jaipur and Ajmer. He also secured a gold medal in a show jumping event in Jaipur earlier in the season.
The rider currently trains at Horse Heaven Academy in Jaipur under coach Satyendra Kumar, a retired Army instructor from the National Defence Academy’s Army Service Corps.
Coach Kumar said Amitoj’s consistency has set him apart. “He has shown strong focus and composure in high-pressure events, which is essential in show jumping,” Kumar said.
Officials at the ceremony noted that Amitoj’s progress serves as an example for aspiring equestrians in the region.
