Anees Imtiaz may ride at Sydney

Mattoo said Imtiaz has been practising here for the last few months and as per the revised qualification standards, he can take part in the event.

“As Imtiaz has been here training for some time on his own, he will not be a burden on the Indian Olympics Association (IOA),” he said adding, “we don’t have to pay for his airfare or boarding and lodging.”

Mattoo said he has given Imtiaz the permission after being fully satisfied that the rider had indeed cleared the qualification hurdles. “Now it is up to the organisers here to give him an entry.”

“The main reason for allowing Imtiaz to participate is to give the youngster an exposure at this level which will help him and the country in the long run,” he added.