RAIN may be lashing Japan’s capital, but national equestrian rider N. Shoorendran insists it will not derail his Asian Games campaign.
Shoorendran and his horse, Limelight AD, have already completed their familiarisation at the JRA Equestrian Park in Setagaya Ward, with the show jumping event getting under way today.
With showers persisting in Tokyo, the weather could be a concern for horses in a discipline as demanding as show jumping. But the 33-year-old, who is based in Luxembourg, said the pair have adapted well.
“She (Limelight) is doing well. Adjusting well to the temperature and riding feels good as well,” said Shoorendran.
“We did the familiarisation yesterday.
“She jumped really well and she was relaxed. Now we will do our vet check and start on the individual competition on Oct 3.
“It’s been raining all week, which keeps the temperature low, which is nice for the horse, but a bit annoying to be wet all the time. But she will cope.”
As the only Malaysian competing, Shoorendran will be hoping to be one of the 20 to advance to the final on Sunday.
Even though the field is strong, with several Olympians competing, Shoorendran said he would focus on his own performance.
“I’m just trying to focus on myself and my horse - be clear of my goal to have a podium chance.”
At the last edition in Hangzhou, China, Shoorendran finished 12th with a time of 81.47 seconds, riding Wanskjaer Cuneo.
