Team Asia won the gold medal in equestrian jumping at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games on Thursday, following a competitive FEI Team Final in Diamniadio, Senegal. The team secured the victory with a total of 17 penalties, defeating Inter America, which took silver with 21 penalties, and Africa, which finished with bronze at 29 penalties.
The gold-winning team comprised India’s Sresht Raju Mantena riding Crazy Horse Boop, Ruirui Sun of China on Astral Z, Alya Adnan Awadh Almheiri from the United Arab Emirates with Karlista de Residal, and Indonesia’s Nusrtdinov Zayan Fatih aboard Ucaral de Beaujoir.
Team Asia entered the final after leading the standings from Tuesday’s opening qualifier, trailed closely by Europe. The event featured four horse-and-rider combinations from six continental teams, where only the three best scores contributed to the total, creating an electrifying atmosphere right from the start.
A total of 11 clear rounds were achieved during the competition, highlighted by standout performances from Switzerland’s Mike Smits, India’s Mantena, and Guatemala’s Cristian Tejada Saravia, all of whom registered double clears over both qualifiers.
Despite strong performances from Inter America, which recorded three fault-free rides from Tejada Saravia, Liza Tittle (USA), and Bruna de Rossetti Faine (CHI), Team Asia maintained their position at the top of the leaderboard.
Ruirui Sun’s journey to gold was notable, especially after she faced challenges in the earlier qualifier where she earned 19 penalties. Returning as the anchor for her team, Sun adjusted her strategy and produced a faultless round, attributing her success to adjustments made to help her horse relax. “In the first round, he was really nervous,” she explained. “I made a few changes to help him calm down. I think he was much calmer this time, and he jumped every obstacle really well.” She credited her teammates for their support and encouragement throughout the competition.
The spirit of camaraderie among competitors was a common theme. Olivia Cosenza Lloyd from Honduras, part of the Inter America silver medal team, noted the positive atmosphere teamwork can foster. “Riding as part of a team brings a lot of pressure, but it’s also really fun because everyone around you is supporting you,” she said. Similarly, Ghali Bougja from Morocco expressed his enjoyment of the team format, emphasizing the bonds formed among riders. “It’s always a great experience,” he said.
FEI Jumping Director Todd Hinde commended the athletes for their performances and team spirit. “Congratulations to all the Athletes and to Team Asia on their victory,” he said, highlighting the importance of teamwork in developing future equestrian talent.
Looking ahead, all 24 riders have qualified for the Individual Final, providing one last opportunity for Olympic glory. The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games will continue from October 31 to November 13, with equestrian events scheduled from November 3 to 6.
