The Monegasque rising star, Anastasia Nielsen: A Journey of Passion and Perseverance

Photo (c) Nicole Schulz

Despite her young age, Anastasia Nielsen has already achieved several top placings in 1.45m classes. The highlight of her career so far has been winning the European Championships for Juniors in 2023.

In 2024, she competed for the first time at the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), where she prepared her string of horses for the season. With her dedication and the support of a stellar team, Anastasia has set ambitious goals for the future.

Recently, she took some time to reflect on her experiences and aspirations.

A Winter at WEF

Anastasia spent her winter at the prestigious Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), an experience she describes as invaluable. “It was an incredibly valuable experience to spend my winter at WEF,” Anastasia shares. “The facilities are top-notch, and the barns around the showground are absolutely beautiful.

 I was really lucky to be stabled at such a stunning barn, and I’m endlessly grateful for the excellent organization by the Karlswood team.”

The competitive environment at WEF offered Anastasia and her horses a chance to grow and excel. “We gained a lot of experience and had the opportunity to compete in a very competitive environment, which was invaluable for our growth,” she says.

Goals for the Season

Anastasia has her sights set on some major goals for the upcoming season. “My main goal for this season is to compete in the Young Rider European Championship and to be competitive in bigger shows,” she reveals. With a string of talented horses, each unique in their own way, Anastasia is poised for success. 

“I’m fortunate to have a great string of talented horses. I have a few very promising young horses being trained for higher levels, while I ride the more experienced ones in bigger classes.”

Staying Positive in a Demanding Sport

Equestrian sports are known for their challenges, and Anastasia acknowledges the importance of maintaining a positive outlook. “It’s very important to stay positive,” she emphasizes. 

“We get to ride incredible horses every day, and while everyone has bad days in this sport, it’s vital to cherish the good days and always work harder to improve.”

Anastasia’s bond with her horses is evident in how she speaks about them. “I spend a lot of time with my horses, taking them for hand walks at shows and just being with them. Treating each horse as an individual is essential because they are all special and have their own character,” she explains.

Motivation and Gratitude

For Anastasia, the love for horses and the sport is a powerful motivator. “The love for the horses and the sport is what keeps me pushing and motivated. 

Being able to do what I love every day is the best thing ever,” she says with a smile. “It’s an unbelievable feeling when hard work pays off. I’m endlessly grateful for my team that supports me

and my horses that give their best every time they go into the ring.”

Aspirations for the Future

Looking ahead, Anastasia is determined to make her mark on the international stage. “I would like to be a part of the future of this sport, riding at the world’s best shows and being competitive among the best,” she declares. 

“Hard work and a good team behind you can make a lot of things happen. My goal is to always work harder, get better, and strive to reach my full potential. I aim to be the best version of myself and stay calm in difficult situations. Every round is an experience, and there’s always something to learn.”

A Bold Move for the European Championship

Despite being in her last year as a Junior, Anastasia has decided to push herself into the Young Rider category for the European Championship in Peelbergen. 

“I’m really looking forward to competing in the European Championship in Peelbergen as a Young Rider, even though it’s my last year as a Junior,” she says. “I decided to challenge myself by moving into a bigger category to keep improving and achieve success in the big sport. I’m feeling ready and motivated to try our best.”

Anastasia Nielsen’s journey is a testament to her passion, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. With a bright future ahead, she continues to inspire and set new standards in the world of equestrian sports. 

Her dedication to constant improvement, combined with her deep bond with her horses

and positive attitude, ensures that with a positive mindset Anastasia will continue to rise. As she steps into the Young Rider category and competes at the highest levels, there is no doubt that Anastasia Nielsen is a name to watch in the equestrian world.

V. Sozzi

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