From fan to foe: Hong Kong equestrian starlet Clarissa Lyra completes journey from Longines Masters stands to stage

Hong Kong equestrian rider Clarissa Lyra used to watch the Longines Masters of Hong Kong from the stands – now she finds herself preparing to share the course with the world’s elite this weekend.

“It was always in the back of my mind that I wanted to compete here,” said the 21-year-old, who will ride for Hong Kong Jockey Club.

“It’s been a goal of mine for several years so I’m very happy I have this chance, but riding at home is going to be different because I grew up here and know a lot of people.”

Lyra’s Masters debut will also be the first five-star show of her career. She will compete in a total of five top-level events at the Asia World Expo from February 9-11.

“It’s a beautiful show but also super competitive. The riders I’ll be competing with here are different to those I would compete against in regular European competitions,” said Lyra, who primarily trains out of Ludger Beerbaum Stables in Germany.

“It comes with a lot of responsibility and expectations because it’s in front of the home crowd. I’m just trying to stay calm and not stress out.”