Malappuram girl Nida Anjum Chelat became the first Indian to complete the Equestrian World Endurance Championship race for Juniors and Young Riders at Castelsagrat, France, on Saturday.
The 21-year-old from Tirur completed the entire 120 km distance in just 7.29 hours.
Nida participated with her horse, 'Epsilonn Salou', alongside 70 competitors from 25 countries in the championship.
During the gruelling race, 33 horses were eliminated. Nida and her horse completed all four stages - finishing 23rd in the first stage, 26th in the second, 24th in the third, and 21st in the final stage.
"I am immensely proud to be the first Indian to complete the World Endurance Riding Championship. I am now embarking on further training for upcoming championships and will continue to strive for more achievements for my country," said Nida.
Nida's passion for horses began during her childhood in Dubai, where she resides with her parents Dr Anvar Ameen Chelat and Minnath Anvar Ameen.
She gained entry into the World Championship by winning the Gold Sword at the Abu Dhabi Endurance Championship. Her mentor, renowned horse trainer and rider, Ali Al Muhairi, has played a pivotal role in her journey.
Nida holds a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from the University of Birmingham, UK. She has also completed an International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme from Raffles World Academy, Dubai.