Raja Hamid Rashid

Iraq_ Yara Al-Jubouri is steadily making her mark in the world equestrian sports, transforming a childhood passion for horseback riding into a professional journey crowned with early achievements in show jumping. Despite social challenges and stereotypes, she has proven her presence strongly, becoming a promising name in the Iraqi national team with aspirations set on Arab and international podiums.

Yara explored several hobbies, including drawing, swimming, and horseback riding. However, her love for horses soon evolved into a professional path after undergoing intensive training in various equestrian disciplines, from speed racing to safari riding, before specializing in show jumping at the beginning of 2025.

She believes equestrian sport is unique, describing it as “the only sport that connects a human being with another living creature,” noting that victory requires mutual trust and physical and mental harmony between rider and horse.

Early Achievements

Yara secured first place in the first round of the Iraqi Show Jumping League in the 80 cm category, competing against 24 male and female riders from various Iraqi provinces and the Kurdistan Region. The championship was held at Al-Mashaher Club in Baghdad.

She also claimed first place in the Ramadan Championship organized by the Iraqi Equestrian Federation in Al-Haidariya on February 26–27, recording a remarkable time of 42 seconds in the same category. Today, she is one of the riders representing the Iraqi national show jumping team.

Challenges and Determination

Despite her young age, Yara faced several social challenges, particularly stereotypes that limit the sport to young men. She said, “Winning first places was not easy; the competition was extremely strong, but dedication to intensive daily training was the secret behind my success.”

She added, “Some people did not accept the idea of a female rider, but with determination and perseverance, I proved that girls possess the physical strength, skills, and talent needed to compete alongside young men.”

She noted that her greatest supporters are her parents, along with her trainers who have worked hard to develop and refine her skills.

The Secret to Success and Future Ambition

Regarding how she overcomes pressure during competitions, Yara explained that she relies on a special mental technique, saying, “I imagine a wall separating me from the outside world and the pressure of the audience, so nothing affects my performance while I’m on horseback.”

She concluded by affirming her ambitions: “I always strive to achieve greater goals. The future is better, and I hope to raise Iraq’s flag high in Arab and international forums and championships.”

With this early determination and consecutive achievements, Yara Al-Jubouri appears to be a promising name in the future of show jumping in Iraq.