Sara Bruschi: “Horses changed my life”

Fourth-place finisher in the HSJ and Mascheroni Selleria video contest, Sara Bruschi opens up about her passion, sacrifices, and future dreams.

Some people are born into equestrian life, while others, like Sara Bruschi, discover it almost by chance—and never let it go. At 31, with a demanding job in the healthcare sector and a deep love for horses, Sara earned fourth place in the video contest organized by Horseshowjumping.tv in collaboration with Mascheroni Selleria, securing this special interview in our magazine and on the official Kiss & Cry podcast.

“Horses have always been part of my life,” Sara says. “I started almost by accident, and then it became my greatest passion. Today I work as a healthcare emergency operator, which is a completely different field, but I still manage to balance everything—I never miss a day at the stables.”

From casual rides to show jumping: love at first jump

Like many passion stories, Sara’s began simply. “I started out riding near home, just going on hacks. Then one day, I rode a show jumping horse, popped over a few jumps, and I absolutely loved it. That’s when I decided to pursue the sport seriously.”

Since then, Sara has never looked back, finding in equestrian sport not just a discipline but a true way of life. “Horses have helped me through some very difficult times. I can’t imagine my life without them. These incredible animals teach you so much and give you the strength to face even the toughest challenges.”

A special bond with Jay

Sara now trains at Circolo Ippico Lo Sperone in Sestri Levante with her coach Antonio Piras, and she shares her daily riding life with Jaronia, an 11-year-old Dutch mare affectionately known as Jay. “She’s been with me for about two years. Before her, I had Corlando, the horse of my heart, with whom I won gold at Verona Fieracavalli and several medals at regional championships. Then Jay came along—she’s very sensitive, just like me, and we immediately clicked.”

That deep bond also comes with challenges. “We’re going through a tricky time in competition, not because of technical issues but because of emotions. Our combined sensitivity can make things complicated. So I decided to take a step back. Even though I hold a first-level license and could compete in higher classes, I went back to training rounds to rebuild our trust together. Now I’m back competing in lower classes, like 1.15m, and I’m proud of that.”

For Sara, this journey has taught her a vital lesson: “The horse’s well-being must always come first. Jumping 1.30m or 1.60m doesn’t matter if you don’t have a solid foundation and a relationship built on trust.”

Managing emotions: the biggest challenge

Emotions play a major role in show jumping, and Sara doesn’t shy away from the topic. “It’s probably the most important and difficult part of the sport. You have to learn to manage them and accept that sometimes you need to take a step back. Often, it’s not the horse struggling—it’s us. Patience and humility are key.”

It’s an important message, especially for young riders: “Girls often focus too much on the jump height, but the most important thing is understanding how to get there. This sport teaches you responsibility, respect, and how to care for another living being. That’s what makes it truly special.”

An animal that changes lives

Beyond competition, Sara highlights the profound impact horses have on a personal level. “Horses have changed my life. In tough times, they give you a reason to get up, go out, and take care of them. I also find their role in equine-assisted therapy extraordinary. I’ve seen firsthand how they can help children and adults with disabilities—it’s truly wonderful.”

Idols, goals, and dreams

Sara also has a role model who has inspired her from the beginning: Edwina Tops-Alexander, the renowned Australian show jumper. “She’s always been my idol, and over time she’s become an important personal reference point. I’m deeply grateful for the support she’s given me and continues to give me.

As for the future, Sara’s goals are clear: “My biggest goal right now is to regain serenity in the competition ring. That would make me happier than anything else. Then, of course, I’d love to move up in classes and maybe return to Verona Fieracavalli, where I won gold with Corlando in 2018. My dream is to go back there with Jay.”

Determination, love, and awareness: Sara Bruschi’s story mirrors that of many riders who see show jumping as a metaphor for life—full of highs and lows, victories and challenges. But through it all, one thing remains constant: the unique and irreplaceable bond with the horse.

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