Nagaland equestrian Kekhriesilie Rio ranked second in world rankings

GUWAHATI: The sports powerhouse of the country, Northeast, has got another feather added to its cap with Nagaland equestrian Kekhriesilie Rio being ranked second in the world rankings (Category A) by Federation International Equestrian (FEI).

The first equestrian from the Northeast to be selected to represent India at the international level has achieved the feat in the world ranking category results 2020 – Category A, B and C and overall team ranking, released by the FEI on January 7. 

India team, comprising Rio, Sehaj Singh Virk and Apurva Dabhade, has been ranked third behind South Africa and Bermuda in overall team rankings.

"Congratulations to @KekhriesilieRio on winning the recently held FEI World Jumping Challenge in Category A and for being ranked 2nd in the world by FEI making him the first Indian to achieve this rank. A proud moment esp. for Nagaland & for India. Best wishes for future endeavours," Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio stated in a tweet.

With this feat, the 20-year old from Touphema village Nagaland, son of MLA Zhaleo Rio, has become the first ever Indian to achieve the highest ranking till date. Riding Claudettee, Kekhriesilie achieved his ranking competing against 47 competitors from across the world.

Kekhriesilie emerged the winner in Category A (130cm) in India and Asian zone in the recently held FEI World Show Jumping Challenge.

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FEI World Show Jumping Challenge is held annually throughout the world, where the competition is divided into three categories. The competition is held across three days and the winner is adjudged at the end of the third day on the basis of least penalty and fastest time.