Posted: 19th August 2013 | Back to news feed
20 year old Tom Jackson was thrilled after completing his final trial at Somerford Park last week to be selected for the Young Rider European Eventing Championships that will take place in Haras de Jardy in France this coming September.
“I’m really proud to have been selected for the Young Riders, it’s such an important step in my career.” said Tom.
Based in the heart of Kent Tom has been riding since he was a small child and realised pretty early on while spending many a day at Pony Club and hunting that a career as an Event Rider was his future.
Waltham Fiddlers Find, his 10 year old bay gelding, was bought as family project when Tom was only 13 years old. Wesley, as he is known at home has been trained by Tom since a 4 your old and together they won the National Under 18 Championships at Weston Park in 2010. 2011 saw his greatest achievement winning a gold medal at the Young Rider European Championships.
This season has seen Tom and Wesley complete their first advanced performance with a great clear cross country, just picking up a few time faults. A 6th place at Houghton Hall CCI** followed by a fabulous 7th place at Barbury International CIC*** against the usual hot competition and all the top professionals.
“To stand at the leader board at this level and see my name up there and my score beating some of the countries best is just fantastic, I’m pretty quiet in general and don’t like to make a fuss but I think a few air punches may have been seen!” laughed Tom.
Tom and Wesley will continue their training programme with trainers Samantha Ray, Cindy Llewellyn and Chiropractor Olivia Jones.
“We have a winning formula at the moment that seems to be working and the ladies that help me have been amazing, Lil (Olivia) comes everywhere with me and makes sure Wes and I are fighting fit and focused. Sam’s dressage training has pulled my scores up where I need to be. Cindy has given me huge support both at home and at the big events, warming me up and walking courses etc. I owe them a lot!”
The Equestrian Index newsfeed is compiled from articles submitted by advertising members and expresses the opinions of those members. Watsons Directories Ltd shall not be held liable for any inaccuracies or mis-statements therein.