Equestrian Prodigy Miraya Dadabhoy Opens Up About Her Journey & Challenges

A wonderous gallop, the rhythm of hooves against the ground, and an unbreakable bond between the rider and horse -- Miraya Dadabhoy has mastered the balance between grace and athleticism in equestrian sports. Ranked World No.5 in Youth dressage rankings by the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI), the 15-year-old Chennai girl is a force to be reckoned with. Her journey in horse riding started at age 4 when she first climbed onto the saddle, unaware that this moment would shape her future. Today, the teenager has leapt to worldwide recognition and put India's equestrian prowess on the global map.

Miraya Dadabhoy In Conversation With SheThePeople

Miraya's life as an equestrienne is intriguing and captivating, drawing curiosity about her journey in the unique game. However, beyond sports, her world is much like other teenagers-- attending school, doing homework, preparing for exams, etc. She juggles the demands of academics and rigorous equestrian training.

Despite being caught in the rigamarole of exam season, Miraya Dadabhoy took time off her hectic schedule to share her journey with SheThePeople. The equestrienne schoolgirl detailed her intense training routine, her deep adoration for horses, and the invaluable lessons she has gained from being a student-athlete.

Miraya's tryst with equestrian sports started almost immediately after she sat on a horse for the first time. "I was always fascinated by animals and loved horses as a child, which led me to take up horseriding as a hobby. When I got older, I was presented with the opportunity to compete. Now I pursue dressage competitively," she shared.

Being A Teenage Athlete

Amid the relentless demands of her routine, Miraya starts her day even before the sun rises. She detailed, "My day starts around 4 a.m. I ride from 6 to 8 a.m., six days a week. From my riding school (Chennai Equitation Centre), I go straight to school from 9 a.m. to around 4 p.m. Once back home, I study and then do some physical training."

For Miraya, the biggest learning she has gained from her journey is time management. Speaking of balancing her academics with sports, she said, "The reason I haven't had many roadblocks is because I very meticulously plan my day in order of my priorities. I pre-plan and structure my day so I can finish what I need to finish."

Bond With Horses

Miraya spoke about the challenges and struggles of being an equestrienne. "I think the biggest challenge is to stay calm and focused during intense intense moments or when your horse is feeling frustrated or scared. It's your sense of understanding that helps your horse to understand what you're asking of them for them to perform."

Miraya expressed that horses have profoundly shaped her life, influencing her both as a rider and as a person. "You learn so much from horses and so much about yourself. Something I don't think a lot of people acknowledge is how sensitive and smart horses are. They also learn so much from our behaviour, the way we respond, and the way they treat them. It not only reflects their personality, but also reflects us as a person, depending on how much time we spend with them.

Earning Recognition

Miraya noted that the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu has been instrumental in providing necessary support. She added, "I think that a lot more support and resources would be very much appreciated. More international level arenas, coaches brought in from abroad for clinics for horses, and corporate sponsorships."

In 2024, Miraya made the nation proud as she won first place in Asia at the FEI World Dressage Championships. "It was my proudest moment!" she exclaimed. She hopes to inspire more young riders in India and bring greater attention to equestrian sports, paving the way for future athletes to compete on the global stage.

Before Miraya Dadabhoy got back to her busy routine, the determined athlete ended the interview with a note of gratitude. "I am so thankful for the support of my parents and my coaches, Isabelle Hasleder and Vikas Pandey; And my two horses Knockout and Fürstentanz. I couldn't have done anything without them," she expressed.