Jessica targets Festival glory

GUNNING FOR GLORY: Teenager Jessica Verbruggen and Midge’s Pet

A LACK of cash is no obstacle to success for showjumper Jessica Verbruggen.

The 16-year-old from Chadderton is enjoying her best season so far despite being the motoring equivalent of a Mini-Cooper racing against a Maserati.

Jessica, who will start studying for her ‘A’ levels at Hopwood Hall next month, and her home produced 14.2hh pony Midge’s Pet have qualified for four classes at the Scope Festival between August 31 and September 5.

She will compete at the Staffordshire event in the finals of the discovery, progressive and adventurer classes as well as the Members Cup after qualifyiong at events throughout the North of England and Midlands.

And in last weekend’s Trailblazer final at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, Jessica and Midge’s Pet were runners-up in the 1.05cm showjumping class and sixth in a 95cm class.

Dad Jan is proud of his daughter’s achievements, given she does not come from an equestrian background and also the family’s lack of financial muscle.

He said: “Jessica is taking on youngsters riding ponies which have cost between £20,000 and £50,000.

“We arrive in our £5,000 horsebox but there are vehicles parked next to ours which have cost £100,000.”

While Jessica only has one pony, the likes of Pippa Allen and Jessica Mendoza, who competed for Great Britain in the European Pony Championships, can call upon strings of four or more.

The Scope Festival will be Jessica’s swansong in pony events before she steps up to horses and young rider classes.

But the next challenge will be to find a horse to make the move which is why Jessica, who stables Midge’s Pet at High Crompton, is desperately seeking sponsorship.

Jan went on: “Jessica is a talented rider and it is incredible what she has achieved bearing in mind our limited resources.

“She needs help to take the next step which is why we are looking for backing.”

Jan estimates it costs £5,000 alone each year to cover travel and entrance fees to events.

If anyone can help, call Jan on 078464 56408.