(260218) -- GUANGDE, Feb. 18, 2026 (Xinhua) -- An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 16, 2026 shows a view of the Yangtze River Delta International Equestrian Center in Dongting Town of Guangde City, east China's Anhui Province. Sasha, an equestrian from Russia, once studied in Shanghai and later went to Europe to study equestrian sports, where she met coach Vasil and eventually married him. They have a lovely daughter named Maya. In 2023, Sasha's family moved to Guangde to start a new life, as her husband Vasil was invited to teach at the Yangtze River Delta International Equestrian Center.

"Riding has always been my favorite," Sasha said in Chinese. Sasha's family now lives near the equestrian center, where she trains daily in equestrian show jumping, takes walks with her beloved horse, and sometimes helps with horse training. Looking ahead, she hopes to participate in more equestrian competitions and to one day own her own ranch.

Beyond the racetrack, Sasha engages in cultural activities to learn about local customs and traditions. Her daughter Maya attends a local kindergarten and has learned Chinese. Her husband Vasil's equestrian teaching is well received by students. These experiences have helped Sasha feel a sense of belonging in a place once unfamiliar to her. "Guangde is picturesque and has friendly people. Living and training here makes me feel wonderful," said Sasha. (Xinhua/Zhang Duan)