In a remarkable feat that has brought pride to Odisha, five-year-old wonder kid Riddhi Samantaray has clinched the gold medal in the children’s category at the prestigious Delhi Horse Riding Show Competition. Hailing from Bhubaneswar, Riddhi, the daughter of Colonel Asish Samantaray and Rohini Singh Deo, has made headlines as the youngest participant in the event, showcasing exceptional talent and determination. A UKG student at KIIT International School, Riddhi credits her passion for horse riding to her father, drawing inspiration from his illustrious career as an Army officer with a penchant for riding.

Taking to the reins under her father’s guidance, Riddhi’s dedication and skill have garnered widespread acclaim, with the Odisha Sports Department lauding her achievement on social media platforms. Her triumph reflects not only her individual prowess but also symbolizes the collective pride of the state. Riddhi’s success follows in the footsteps of her elder sister, Rishita, who had previously brought honor to Odisha by securing a bronze medal in the Open Hacks event at the Delhi Horse Show. Last year, Rishita had also achieved silver and bronze medals in the same competition, demonstrating the family’s remarkable talent and commitment to equestrian excellence.

Both sisters harbor aspirations of representing Odisha on prestigious platforms such as the Asian and Olympic Games, aiming to popularize horse riding among the state’s youth. Their journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, illustrating the boundless potential of young athletes and the transformative power of dedication and perseverance.