Ioli Mytilineou: The Rising Star of Greek Show Jumping

(c) Jonathan Ding

In the world of international show jumping, where both skill and determination are paramount, few athletes stand out as vividly as Ioli Mytilineou. Born and raised in Greece, the 27-year-old rider has emerged as a beacon of hope and inspiration for her nation’s equestrian scene. Recently  competing in Morocco, where horseshowjumping.tv was fortunate enough to sit down with the talented Greek rider,  Mytilineou’s journey from a childhood steeped in horses to her rise on the global stage is both a testament to her dedication and an example of the passion that drives athletes to excel in their chosen fields.

In a candid conversation, Ioli shares her philosophy on success, the deep connections she forms with her horses, and the exciting future she envisions for herself and the sport in Greece.

“If You’re In, Be All In”

When asked about her past statement on commitment, Ioli’s stance remains steadfast. Years of competing have not altered her belief that dedication is key to success. “If you want to do something, then you should do it properly,” she reiterates. “You need to be one hundred percent all in, train hard, and accept that sacrifices have to be made.” Whether in sports or business, Ioli believes this approach is universal. She emphasizes that while success isn’t guaranteed, putting oneself in a position to succeed increases the likelihood of achieving it.

A Passion Born in the Saddle

For Ioli, riding was always more than a hobby—it was in her blood. “I was on a horse before I can even remember,” she recalls, crediting her equestrian roots to her parents, who were both riders themselves. While her sister chose a different path, Ioli knew from a young age that horses were her passion. With the unwavering support of her family, she pursued her dreams and, over time, built a career in show jumping that has taken her to the international arena.

The Power of Connection with Horses

At the heart of Ioli’s success is her bond with her horses. “I really believe in having a connection with the horse,” she says, explaining how each horse has its own personality and preferences. Understanding these nuances is crucial, especially for a rider like Ioli, who works with multiple horses. She emphasizes that if she tried to ride each horse the same way, she wouldn’t stand a chance. “I take time to understand what each of them likes and dislikes, and if I can make them the best version of themselves, then that’s a win for me.”

A Stable of Talent

Ioli currently competes with a string of seven horses, each with its own strengths. From her seasoned 13-year-olds, “L’Artiste de Toxandria , Levis de Muze , and La Perla, to her rising star Seven Oaks, Ioli has cultivated a stable of talent that reflects her meticulous approach to the sport. “They may not all be five-star Grand Prix horses, but what they can do, they do well,” she says. Her excitement for the future is palpable, especially when she talks about Seven Oaks, who she believes will be her next Grand Prix horse.

Learning from Setbacks

Reflecting on her career so far, Ioli mentions that success is about more than just wins. One of her most memorable moments was competing in the 2021 European Championships in Riesenbeck, Germany. “I didn’t win, but it shaped who I am today,” she admits. The experience taught her valuable lessons about the ups and downs of the sport. In fact, she believes that not winning made her hungrier and more determined to succeed. Her drive, fueled by both success and failure, is what keeps her pushing forward in the sport.

Greece’s Equestrian Scene on the Rise

Though show jumping in Greece is a relatively small community, Ioli is optimistic about its growth. “It’s not one of the main sports in Greece, but there’s definitely increasing interest,” she notes. Ioli believes that having Greek athletes, like herself, competing on the world stage helps inspire younger riders and makes the sport more accessible. She highlights the efforts of the Greek Federation to support the sport, and she’s hopeful that future generations will continue to elevate Greece’s presence in the equestrian world.

The Importance of Safety and Quality Equipment

As with any extreme sport, safety is a primary concern for Ioli. She stresses the importance of top-quality equipment, especially helmets. “We’re working with large, powerful animals at high speeds and heights, so safety is essential,” she says. Partnering with KEP Italia, a brand she respects, Ioli takes pride in using equipment that not only keeps her safe but aligns with her values. She encourages other riders to prioritize safety, regardless of their level of experience.

Beyond Show Jumping: Life and Hobbies

While show jumping occupies much of her time and focus, Ioli leads an active life outside of the arena. When she’s not riding, she enjoys tennis and spends time at the gym, maintaining a fitness routine that supports both her physical and mental health. Though equestrian sports dominate her schedule, her love for staying active reflects the same discipline that has carried her to the top of her sport.

Looking Ahead: Goals for the Future

As for her goals, Ioli is clear about where she wants to go. Long-term, she hopes to build a stable of top-level horses that will keep her at the forefront of show jumping for years to come. She’s also keen on learning from past mistakes, like the importance of continuing to develop younger horses even while focusing on her current stars. In the short term, her eyes are set on the 2024 European Championships in La Coruña, Spain, where she hopes to compete with one of her top horses.

With her sights set on future championships and the ongoing development of her horses, Ioli Mytilineou is not just a rider to watch but an inspiration to young equestrians dreaming of their own success.

Valentina Sozzi

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