[Wiltshire Times] Tockenham showjumper Jessica Mendoza fended off competition from Britain’s top international riders to win the 1.50m Grand Prix on Nuggets L’Amandour at Addington Manor.

Jessica Mendoza riding Nuggets L’Amandour in the Addington Grand Prix (Pictured by Risto Aaltonen)

The 16 year old faced competition from around 50 others in the class, including top British competitors Tina Fletcher and Michael and Ellen Whitaker.

Mendoza was one of only eight in the jump-off, going early on, setting a fast clear round target which none of the others could beat.

“Without a doubt, this would be Jess’s biggest win to date. It was one of the biggest tracks you get in national competitions and knowing that we can hold our own against the very best in the country makes the future look good,” said father and trainer Paul.

“I’m so happy with that. The horse went really well for me,” added Jessica.

It has been a good month for Mendoza who – in addition to taking home £9,000 in prize money from the Addington Grand Prix – has been accepted on to the World Class Development Programme.

The programme works with talented riders to maximise their potential and deliver success on the international stage, with the Rio Olympics in mind….

Read the full story at the Wiltshire Times…..

Wiltshire Times
1st Feb, 2013