Rising Star: Anastasia Bondarieva’s Journey in Show Jumping

At just 21 years old, Ukrainian show jumper Anastasia Bondarieva is making waves in the equestrian world. With a strong string of talented horses and a determined mindset, she is steadily climbing the ranks of international show jumping. We caught up with her during her time in Doha, where she has been competing in some of the most prestigious competitions of the season.

A Day in the Life of a Show Jumper

Anastasia’s daily routine revolves around her horses. “I start my day at the stables,” she says. “I always like to get going with the horses in the morning, check that everything is all right, guide the grooms, and have a solid plan for the day.”

She follows a carefully structured weekly training schedule, ensuring her horses stay in peak condition without overworking them. “We never over-jump them at home,” she explains. “They get a couple of intense workdays, one or two small jumping sessions, and plenty of flatwork. There’s also a lunge day and a well-deserved day off.”

An Impressive String of Horses

Anastasia is particularly excited about the horses she has this season. “I feel very privileged to have a very good group of horses this year,” she shares. Two of her top prospects are 10-year-olds she has been developing for big competitions. “I bought one when he was eight and another one just last year at nine. They are really stepping up now, competing in big classes, and showing great results.”

Among her standout horses is Calder, a seasoned 16-year-old who has been her most trusted partner over the past two years. “He gives me a lot of confidence,” she says. “He’s the type of horse that allows me to ride well and bring up the younger ones.”

Anastasia is also developing an eight-year-old, who is gradually stepping up to the 1.40m classes. “I try not to rush him. The goal is maybe a few ranking classes this year, but I want to take my time with him.”

Lessons in Patience and Progress

As a young rider, Anastasia has learned that success in show jumping is a marathon, not a sprint. “The best advice I’ve ever received is that if you take time, great things will happen,” she says. “As young riders, we see top professionals around us and feel like we need to catch up. But sometimes, slowing down allows us to take bigger steps in the long run.”

Competing in Doha: A Perfect Start to the Season

Competing in Doha has been a game-changer for Anastasia. “This experience has been a blessing,” she says. “The facilities are incredible, the horses are happy, and I’ve had the chance to compete at the highest level for five weeks.”

For a young rider like Anastasia, this has been an invaluable opportunity. “It’s really important to gradually step up, get comfortable at bigger tracks, and gain experience. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to start the year.”

Overcoming Setbacks

Like any top athlete, Anastasia has had to deal with setbacks. “In this sport, there are more bad days than good ones,” she admits. “That’s why it’s so important to celebrate the good days.”

Handling disappointment is something she’s still working on. “Just yesterday, something didn’t go well, and I felt like a complete failure,” she confesses. “But I talk to my trainer, my mental coach, and my team. It’s important to have people around you who lift you up when you’re down.”

Goals for 2025 and Beyond

Looking ahead, Anastasia has both short-term and long-term goals. “Right now, I want to finish the Doha circuit on a high note,” she says. “I’m really pleased with how my horses have been performing, and I want to keep them feeling great as we head back home.”

For the rest of 2025, she hopes to gain more opportunities at major European shows. “It all depends on performance. If you do well at one big show, you might get a shot at another. I want to balance success with not overworking myself or my horses.”

A Promising Future

At just 21, Anastasia Bondarieva is a rider to watch. Her patience, dedication, and strong bond with her horses are setting her up for a bright future in the sport. With a solid start to the year in Doha, she’s ready to take on whatever comes next.

“I really appreciate all the support,” she says with a smile. “I can’t wait to see what this season holds.”

Ph Stefano Secchi | Valentina Sozzi

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