Galloping to Greatness: Jessica Springsteen’s Bond with Horses and Journey to the Top
.
.
.
Play Video:
A Rising Star in Equestrian Show Jumping
Jessica Springsteen, a name synonymous with determination and talent in the equestrian world, is carving her path to greatness as one of the top show jumpers in the United States. With a deep connection to her horses and an unyielding passion for the sport, Jessica has transformed from a young rider into a fierce competitor on the global stage. In a candid conversation, she shares insights into her relationships with her equine partners, the thrill of competition, and her aspirations as she competes at the highest levels of show jumping. This article delves into Jessica’s journey, her unique bond with her horses, and her experiences as part of prestigious events like the Global Champions League, painting a vivid picture of a woman driven by dedication and love for her craft.
A Lifelong Companion: Javon D, the Competitive Spirit
Among Jessica’s trusted equine partners, Javon D holds a special place in her heart. At 14 years old, Javon D is the horse Jessica has had the longest, and their bond is palpable. “I’ve had her the longest,” Jessica reflects with a smile. “She really knows what she’s doing, and she’s just so competitive.” Javon D’s love for the sport shines through in every round, as she thrives on speed and the thrill of competition. Jessica credits this mare with teaching her how to be competitive at the elite level, especially in ranking classes where she faced off against some of the world’s best riders. “She’s so fast on her own,” Jessica explains, “so I know if I just do the right track and we get a good rhythm, she’s given me a lot of confidence at this level.” This partnership has been foundational in shaping Jessica’s approach to high-stakes show jumping.
Christine: The Friendly Grand Prix Star
Another key member of Jessica’s team is Christine, her Grand Prix horse, known for his friendly and affectionate nature. “He’s the friendliest of them all, I think he’s the sweetest,” Jessica says warmly. With a personality that draws people in, Christine loves to cuddle—even without the promise of treats. In the arena, however, he transforms into a powerhouse, effortlessly tackling the big Grand Prix courses. Jessica describes riding Christine as a comforting experience, even in the most technical and demanding classes. “It kind of feels easy for him,” she notes. “I never feel like he has to put in a big effort or that it’s difficult.” This sense of ease allows Jessica to walk courses without nerves, confident that Christine is always up for the challenge, no matter how big the jumps or fierce the competition.
Building Confidence: From Varnado to Cam
Jessica’s journey through the ranks of show jumping has been marked by partnerships with horses that have shaped her growth as a rider. Reflecting on her early days, she recalls her first Grand Prix horse, Varnado, who provided the confidence she needed as a younger rider. “When you’re younger, you want a horse that really gives you a lot of confidence,” she explains. While Varnado may not have been the most competitive, he was the perfect partner to guide her through initial challenges. Now, with a horse like Cam, whom Jessica describes as a “once-in-a-lifetime horse,” she feels ready to take on the world’s top riders. “You go in the ring feeling like, okay, I can compete against these top riders because I have such a great horse,” she says. This progression from building confidence to embracing competitiveness highlights her evolution in the sport.
Team Spirit: Competing with the Shanghai Swans
Beyond individual achievements, Jessica finds immense joy in team competitions, such as the Global Champions League, where she rides for the Shanghai Swans. Paired with teammate Alexandre, Jessica relishes the camaraderie and excitement of being part of something innovative. “It’s exciting to participate in the start of something so new and see where it goes,” she shares. Competing in some of the best cities in the world, against top horse and rider combinations, offers invaluable learning opportunities. As one of the younger riders in these elite circles, Jessica absorbs lessons from watching the best in the business. “I learn so much just from watching the best riders in the world, how they approach the course,” she admits. This experience, coupled with the thrill of team spirit, makes her feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such a dynamic environment.
A Haven for Horses: Training in Ideal Surroundings
Jessica’s training base is a sanctuary not just for her, but for her horses as well. “I love it here,” she enthuses, describing a setting with woods to explore and multiple rings to ride in. Most importantly, she notes, “the horses are just really happy here.” Every summer, when they return to this environment, her horses seem to be at their healthiest and most confident. This happiness translates into their performance, as they exhibit a “happy-go-lucky” attitude that fuels their success in the arena. For Jessica, creating a space where her horses can thrive is paramount, as their well-being directly impacts their ability to compete at the highest levels. This nurturing approach underscores her deep respect for her equine partners.
Tiger Lily: A Dual Personality on the Field
Adding a touch of humor to her stable, Jessica introduces Tiger Lily, a mare with a dual personality. “She’s kind of vishaya,” Jessica laughs, explaining that Tiger Lily never pushes herself forward but remains sweet and soft in demeanor. However, in the saddle, she transforms into one of the most competitive horses Jessica rides. Acquired around the same time as Christine, Tiger Lily brings a playful dynamic to the team. “Sometimes she’s a tiger, sometimes a lily,” Jessica jokes, highlighting the mare’s unpredictable nature. This blend of gentleness and ferocity makes Tiger Lily a unique and exciting partner, embodying the complexity of horse-rider relationships in show jumping.
The Chemistry of Success: Horse and Rider Harmony
At the core of Jessica’s philosophy is the belief that the horse and rider combination is crucial to success in show jumping. “You can have an amazing horse, and it might just not be the right fit for you,” she explains. A horse that doesn’t mesh with one rider might excel with another, emphasizing the importance of chemistry and comfort. For Jessica, finding horses she connects with on a personal level is essential. “You have to really be riding a horse that you have chemistry with and that you feel comfortable with,” she asserts. This principle guides her partnerships, ensuring that trust and mutual understanding underpin every jump, turn, and gallop in the arena.
A Future Full of Promise
Jessica Springsteen’s journey in equestrian show jumping is a testament to her talent, hard work, and profound connection with her horses. From the competitive spirit of Javon D to the friendly prowess of Christine, and the playful duality of Tiger Lily, each horse has played a pivotal role in shaping her career. As she competes in prestigious events like the Global Champions League and trains in an environment where her horses thrive, Jessica continues to grow as a rider and competitor. With each round, she builds on the confidence instilled by her early partners and embraces the challenges of facing the world’s best. Her story is one of harmony, determination, and an unwavering love for the sport—a story that promises many more victories as she gallops toward an even brighter future on the global stage.
