Jake Myers is a 19 year old Showjumper from Devon and we spoke to him to bring us up to date with his life as an international showjumper.
What was your highlight in 2023?
My top moments of 2023 would have to be winning back to back 7 year olds at the Mediterranean Equestrian Tour – Oliva Nova on Gamin Des Rondets (Cuba) and qualifying for the HOYS Redpost Equestrian Senior Foxhunter Final at Bicton.
What are you most looking forward to in 2024
I’m most looking forward to taking some horses to the Sunshine Tour in spain in February for a few weeks. I am also looking forward to hopefully competing at Royal International in the final I qualified for this week, and hopefully winning some more classes!
What are your biggest goals for the year?
My biggest goal for the year would be being competitive in the young rider and under 25 classes.
When did you start to ride?
I have been riding my whole life, but started jumping at eight years old
Was this always something you wanted to do?
Yes! From a very young age I have always wanted to be a world class showjumper and it hasn’t changed once since.
What are your 5 favourite products from Redpost?
- Samshield XJ Riding Helmet – I love this riding helmet, I think it looks really smart and mmets all safety requirements while still feeling super light on my head.
- Tucci boots – I love these boots for riding in at competitions or at home. I find them really comfortable and they fit like a glove!
- Samshield Miami Matt Mens Competition Jacket – This is one of my favourite jackets. It is stretchy and moisture wicking – so i’m always comfortable on those long show days.
- Equiline Grafton Mens Breeches – These are great for everyday wear, but I also really like the white competition version for competition days. I find them really comfortable in and out of the saddle.
- Terry’s Chocolate Orange bar – Need I say more?
What is your most memorable horse-riding moment?
Thats a tricky one, I would have to say on horses is winning the Nations Cup Individual Gold Juniors for Great Britain at Zuidwolde. Or on ponies it has to be coming second at my first time at HOYS in the 138cm Pony Final.
Where is your favourite place to compete?
Olympia, the atmosphere is unbelievable.
Can you run us through how you prepare for the big shows?
Firstly, for several weeks before I work on their fitness, to ensure they are fit enough and don’t fatigue over the duration of the show. I would do a grid one of the days prior to the event and I go to my trainers a few days before an important competition and ensure I have jumped a course that is similar to the type of lines and fences that are usually seen at the event. It is also important to me that both myself and my horse are understanding each other and the horse is listening to me.
What types of off-horse activities have you found to have helped your riding the most over the years?
I don’t have much time to do many other sports as showjumping takes up most of my time. However, I do enjoy going mountain biking with my friends and I believe this helps balance and reaction time.
What advice have you been given that has stuck with you the most?
Always have a plan but don’t be afraid to change it if needed.
Who has been the most special horse in your riding career so far and why?
Calcourt Qualvados, who is known as Alice at home, as I have been riding her since I was 14. We have learned a lot together as she was only 6 and has given me the opportunity to win some big classes and jump in some fantastic arenas.
Who is your greatest riding inspiration?
I look up to many riders in the sport however my favourite has to be Scott Brash and Marcus Ehning as they ride very naturally but are also very competitive against the clock.
What are your goals for the next 5 years?
I would love to jump abroad much more and gain world ranking points. Depending on the horses I have to ride I would also love to jump Young Rider Europeans.
