Zayna Rizvi, the present and future of world horse riding.

(c) Mackenzie Clark

Age? 19. Nationality? American. Distinguishing marks?? Pure talent. If I was asking you who these characteristics belong to, the answer is simple, the rising star Zayna Rizvi. The American and world horse riding promise, already awarded with the “Lionel Guerrand-Hermès”, was reached by phone and she answered brilliantly to some of our questions, telling us about the beginnings, what are her goals and how she lives her passion.

Zayna, you took your first steps in the world of riding when you were still very young, there was someone you took as a reference point to start?

“I began riding when I was three years old and competed in my first show when I was five. My mom is also a rider, and she is the one who really started my equestrian career. I am so grateful to her for introducing me to the world of riding, a passion that has shaped my life in countless wonderful ways.”

The horse and rider binomial is definitely the most important aspect of the equestrian world, what do you feel when you work with your horses and why were you fascinated by it?

“What I love most about working with horses is the deep connection I feel when I’m with them. The thrill of building trust and communication through riding and training is both challenging and rewarding. Each interaction teaches me patience and compassion, reminding me of the beauty of this incredible partnership.”

From the words of Zayna you can immediately perceive how important horses are to her and she instantly tells us about them, with an eye for a particular subject…

“I currently have four amazing horses and I am lucky enough to have a very special bond with each of them. They are all so amazing in different ways, but the horse that has really helped guide me to the higher levels is Exquise de Pachis, also known as Patchy. She has brought me around all of my biggest tracks so far including my first 3*, 4* and 5* Grand Prix’s. She gives me so much confidence in and out of the ring and I’m so grateful to have a partner like her.”

We like to think that riding is a bit like a metaphor for life. What have you learned from riding, and how do you think these lessons reflect in your life?

“I have learned several important lessons from riding, but to name a few; learning from my mistakes, rather than dwelling on them, discipline, time management, and responsibility. Riding has also brought me my closest friends who also understand the commitment it takes to ride at the top levels.”

Talking about the competitive side, how do you mentally and physically prepare before a competition? Do you have any specifics routines or rituals?

“I don’t have a super specific routine, but I always ride my horse that I’m showing beforehand and then head to the ring to start getting myself ready. This includes polishing my boots, putting my hair up, and putting my jacket and safety vest on. Then I’m ready to go!”

So young, but already so determined, Zayna sets the medium and long-term goals of a career on the launch pad…

“Some of my short-term goals are to win a 4* Grand Prix, jump a clear round in a 5* Grand Prix, and be a part of more Nation’s Cup teams. My long-term goals would be to compete at the most prestigious horse shows in the world including, hopefully, the Olympics one day.”

During the competitions you bring out the best in yourself, but you told us that when you were younger you were very shy. How was it growing up in a competitive environment like show jumping?

“As a child, I was very shy and sometimes still am, but riding has helped me come out of my shell. I have been lucky enough to meet so many incredible people through the horse world who have all been a huge part of my journey.”

You’ve often competed in team events. How important is teamwork in this sport, and how challenging can it be?

“I have had the opportunity to compete on a few Nations Cup teams already, and I am so thankful for the invaluable lessons that I have learned from being on a team. The opportunity to represent your country is so special within itself. During normal competitions, our results are based on our individual performance. So, being part of a team atmosphere is so exhilarating and unique. You get to meet new people and experience a whole new level of nerves and pressure when you have three other people counting on your final score. Sure, this can be very nerve racking, but I have also found it to be incredibly rewarding and exciting.”

Like all teenagers, Zayna also has other interests outside the equestrian world.

“Oltre i cavalli, adoro andare a sciare con la mia famiglia e fare pilates.”

A talent like Zayna Rizvi certainly needs someone who can guide and make her bloom definitively, in this, the figures of Missy Clark and John Brennan are undoubtedly fundamental.

“Missy Clark and John Brennan have been training me since I was 10 years old, and they have since become like a second family to me. I truly would not be the rider I am without them. John and Missy are very straight forward while also being kind and compassionate. They have been tremendous role models for me in and out of the equestrian world. I am so beyond grateful to be part of the North Run team.”

At only 19 years old she seems to have the right cards and passion to aim for really important goals. A figure like Zayna is certainly an important element for all the equestrian movement that, also thanks to these young riders, can raise the level even more and keep high the show’s standards. Best of luck Zayna!

Damiano Poggi

© Rights Reserved.