Bolshakova was born in Leningrad and represented Russia until 13 November 2008. As a teenager she won the silver medal at the 2001 World Youth Championships and the bronze medal at the 2003 European Junior Championships. Her personal best as a junior was 13.55 metres, achieved in June 2002 in Kazan. She had 13.64 on the indoor track, achieved in February 2003 in Moscow.