Young State riders make mark at prestigious Haifa Polo Ground

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Mar 25 : In a significant moment for equestrian sports and polo enthusiasts of Manipur, six young riders from Manipur earned the privilege of playing at the prestigious Haifa Polo Ground, Army Equestrian Centre, Delhi Cantt yesterday.
Cadet Kedarnath and Cadet Luhenba (both from Kumbi), Cadet Abhijit (Yairipok), Cadet Priyobrata and Cadet Ruhit (Thoubal), and Cadet Kishorchand (Khurai) divided into two teams- Apex Riders and Gallant Riders, were able to showcase their equestrian skills in an exhibition match.
These promising riders, guided by the Manipur Horse Riding & Polo Association (MHRPA), are undergoing rigorous training and honing the finer nuances of equestrian sport and polo under the expert supervision of the Remount & Veterinary Corps School & College, Meerut, said Lt Col L Manongba (Retd) in a press statement.
The exhibition match was followed by the Gen Thimayya Cup in the evening, he said.
Haifa Polo Ground, located within Delhi Cantonment adjacent to the Army Equestrian Centre, is a historic venue used by the Indian Army for polo, equestrian training, and ceremonial events.  The ground derives its name from the historic Battle of Haifa (1918), where Indian cavalry units displayed extraordinary valour—an enduring legacy in India’s military and equestrian history. Recognised as one of the premier equestrian hubs of the Indian Army, performing on this ground is a matter of immense pride - especially for these young riders under 16 years of age, he said.
“This exposure offers them a rare opportunity to compete alongside some of the finest horsemen in the country. With dedication and perseverance, one can hope that these young talents will rise to the highest standards of the sport - perhaps even achieving the coveted 10-goal handicap and bringing international laurels in the years ahead,” Lt Col L Manongba said.