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National Dressage Champion Faces Obstacles in Pursuit of Asian Games Dream

Gaurav Pundir, a two-time National Dressage Champion with talent and dedication, has encountered significant hurdles on his journey to the Asian Games. Despite excelling at the National Equestrian Championship 2023 and qualifying for the Asian Games trials, Pundir alleges bias from the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI), impeding his participation.

Champion with a Dream: Gaurav Pundir's Uphill Battle

Gaurav Pundir's path to the Asian Games has been far from smooth, even after emerging as the champion in the dressage discipline at the National Equestrian Championship 2023. Despite his triumph, the EFI has seemingly delayed his entry into the Asian Games, leaving his dreams hanging in the balance.

EFI's Alleged Bias and Obstacles

Pundir claims that the EFI has been biased against him and has withheld crucial information that could have affected his preparations. He asserts that his request to travel with his horse, Escobar, was rejected, jeopardizing his chances of competing. Furthermore, the EFI allegedly kept him uninformed about the fact that Indian horses were not allowed to compete in China due to quarantine regulations. As a result, Pundir could not travel to Europe to find a suitable horse for training.

A Legal Battle for a "Replacement Entry"

With time running out and the Asian Games approaching, Pundir has decided to take the matter to court. He seeks a "replacement entry" that would allow him to participate in the prestigious event. The Delhi High Court had previously directed the EFI to facilitate Pundir's participation in two European events to meet the Minimum Eligibility Requirement (MER) with his new horse.

EFI's Response and Controversy

While Pundir accuses the EFI of discrimination and a lack of support, EFI General Secretary Jaiveer Singh defends the federation's stance. Singh states that Pundir was aware of the restrictions on Indian horses in China and could have chosen a training base in Germany or France, like his teammates. He denies any EFI discrimination and clarifies that the foreign coach determines the competition schedule for players.

The Ongoing Battle and the Asian Games Deadline

The legal battle for Pundir's "replacement entry" is still ongoing, and the next hearing is scheduled for August 1. The Asian Games window is closing on September 16, adding urgency to Pundir's fight to secure his spot in the prestigious event.

In his quest for the Asian Games, Gaurav Pundir faces not only the physical and mental challenges of a sport that demands the highest level of skill and preparation but also the formidable obstacles of bureaucracy and alleged bias. Only time will tell if justice prevails and Pundir gets the chance to showcase his talent and hard work on the Asian Games stage.

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