Jessica Taggart, a learner at Parktown High School for Girls, recently participated in the South African National Equestrian Schools Association (Sanesa) Regional Competition, and the school couldn’t be prouder.

Read more: Equestrians show there stuff at the SA Youth Championships

Jessica represented the Johannesburg Central A team in both 90cm classes, where she placed 2nd in the first class and 5th in the second class. “SANESA is the only competitive show I have ever competed in. It was amazing. I love everything about competing, especially the thrill when your bell goes.”

The 14-year-old explained that the 90cm classes take place on a showjumping course set at a height of 90cm. The first class is A2, which means it is two rounds. The first round you must clear, then the second round is speed. The second class is A1, which means it is one round based on time.

Jessica started horse riding in Grade 3, “but I only started horse riding competitively when I moved to Phaeton Park Stables in Grade 7. I have always wanted that bond between the rider and the horse, and the adrenaline rush you get when riding.”

The equestrian’s accolades include competing in Sanesa for three years:

• she represented the Johannesburg A team at regionals for both 70cm showjumping classes,
• she represented the Gauteng A team at nationals for both 70cm showjumping classes,
• her Gauteng team placed first at nationals in one class and fourth in other classes,
• she won Victor Ludorum for showjumping (level 1–4) at a regionals prize giving, and
• she received regional full colours in the Gauteng School Equestrian category.

Jessica will now be representing the 90cm showjumping classes at nationals in October, in the Gauteng A team and the Gauteng B team.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!