Outside the doors, it is -26ºC. The light is dim and the building is unheated. But it is not cold – the heat inside the buildings of the riding school comes from the horses themselves.
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Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
The light here is very dim, and there is no conventional heating system in place.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
…and a proud horse!
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
A proud rider…
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
The fading Siberian sunlight barely shines through the frozen wintry windows.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
The award ceremony for the Open Championship of the Siberian Federal District.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
Character and determination are important qualities for the competition riders.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
Character and determination are important qualities for the competition riders.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
Any successful round is not just a victory for the rider – it is a victory for the whole team.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
Any successful round is not just a victory for the rider – it is a victory for the whole team.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
While the children participate in the competition, all the others watch carefully and cheer them on.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
Despite the freezing temperatures, the children have to ride in official competition dress.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
Outside the barn doors, it is -26C. Inside the stables, it is a lot warmer.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
The girls are also responsible for cleaning the area and preparing it for competitions.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
The riding teachers say that the girls are more determined and hardworking than the boys.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
The vast majority of children who visit the stables on a daily basis are girls.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
More than 300 horse-lovers regularly come to the riding stables.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
Training sessions and competitions are held throughout the year.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
About 70 horses live here at any one time.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
Last year, the riding school celebrated its 80th anniversary.
Andrey Shapran / Focus Pictures
The official name of the equestrian center is the School of the Olympic Reserve.
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