Anna Buffini Hits Pause on Competition Career

As Chronicle of the Horse published, Anna Buffini has moved quickly through the ranks of international dressage, representing the United States on multiple senior Nations Cup teams and World Cup championships, and even being considered for the 2024 U.S. Olympic team. At just 29, she has become a trailblazer both on and off the arena, using her presence on social media to attract new audiences to dressage and break barriers as a Black athlete in the sport.

Despite her rapid rise, the realities of top-level competition have taken their toll. Buffini revealed that the financial demands of campaigning a high-caliber horse played a central role in her decision to step back from active competition.

Her story with Fiontini, a 15-year-old Danish Warmblood mare, highlights both the highs and challenges of elite dressage. Purchased in late 2021, Fiontini had already proven herself as a three-time young horse world champion under previous riders Patrik Kittel, Andreas Helgstrand, and Severo Jurado Lopez. Buffini made her debut with the mare in February 2024 in California, quickly earning strong results. A promising run toward the 2024 Paris Olympics ended abruptly at a German qualifier when Fiontini, known for her quirks, got her tongue over the bit in the Grand Prix, leading to disqualification despite an otherwise solid performance.

Looking ahead, Buffini considered the long-term picture: Fiontini will be 18 by the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028, and Buffini’s former Grand Prix partner, FRH Davinia La Douce, has retired. With these factors in mind, she chose to downsize her stable and focus on her three remaining horses, including her gelding, Flynn Rider.

Buffini is also exploring new avenues beyond competition. While teaching remains a partial focus, she is now considering hosting select events such as demonstrations or clinics aimed at making dressage more approachable and enjoyable. Outside the barn, she plans to spend more time with family—including her nephews—and pursue her role as a worship leader in her church.

Through her decision, Buffini hopes to offer insight to others navigating the costly and demanding world of high-level equestrian sport, emphasizing that even top competitors sometimes need to pause, reassess, and find balance.

Photo courtesy of Stefan Lafrentz