From Horse Fear to Dreaming of Professional Equestrianism: The Story of Clara Vilela
The runner-up finish of 15-year-old rider Clara Vilela at the first stage of the 2025 RK FEERJ Beginner and Aspirant Show Jumping competition is another step in the inspiring journey of this young athlete. The event took place last weekend at the Sociedade Hípica Brasileira in Rio de Janeiro.
Competing against 47 other pairs, Clara delivered an impeccable performance, missing the gold by just two milliseconds. At the end of the 11 stages, the overall winner of the circuit will have the opportunity to advance to the professional level of equestrianism. The next competition is scheduled for April 13th at the Teresópolis Golf Club.
Living in Teresópolis (RJ), Clara recalls how the sport entered her life by chance, and how she initially had a fear of horses. Today, she balances her passion for equestrianism with her school life and her dream of becoming a veterinarian. This was Clara’s first competition as a registered athlete with FEERJ, the Equestrian Federation of the State of Rio de Janeiro.
“My mom is friends with my current riding instructors. I started the sport as a child. Even though I was afraid of horses, I was encouraged to try horseback riding, which changed my life and turned me into a passionate rider,” she says.
Clara competed alongside Voando Bay, her partner for the past seven years. He is the offspring of Voando Baixo, a legendary horse in Brazil’s national equestrian scene. Clara explains that the horse, nearly 20 years old, is highly adaptable and a great companion, especially for beginners.
“He’s a versatile, affectionate, and resilient horse with an excellent understanding of the rider’s needs and characteristics. He currently works in classical riding lessons, recreational riding, events, and even theater performances. He’s the love of my life. He’s very well-mannered and has excellent emotional control,” she shares.
After winning in 60 cm and 80 cm competitions, Clara is now focusing on 1-meter events, competing in classical show jumping. Sponsored by WSB Advisors and with lessons from Fernando Brazil, Clara trains two to three times a week at Equus Lúdico, with each session lasting 1.5 hours.
