From a classroom to international jumping glory: ‘I’ve a lot to be thankful for’ says Jessica Burke

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Jessica Burke: from Galway classroom to international glory at Horse of the Year Show
Jessica Burke riding Inpulss, winners of the Speed Horse of the Year during the Horse of the Year Show held at the NEC in Birmingham in UK between 5 -9th October 2021
(Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Irish showjumper Jessica Burke has forged a stellar career on the international circuit since switching from her role in the classroom as a maths teacher just three years ago. Speaking to H&H showjumping editor Jennifer Donald on episode 126 of The Horse & Hound Podcast, Jessica starts by reflecting on winning an amazing hat-trick of international classes at this year’s Horse of the Year Show.

“I never imagined how good the atmosphere there was,” says Jessica, who is based in Hampshire at the Arion Stud and won all three classes, including the prestigious speed horse of the year, with the great mare Inpulss. “I would have been delighted to win one class there, to canter down under the spotlight. But to do it three times was class.

Jennifer Donald
Jennifer Donald
Showjumping and racing editor

Jennifer is passionate at showjumping and her role as H&H’s showjumping editor has taken her around the world reporting from shows and interviewing riders, connections and those involved behind the scenes. Since joining H&H from BBC Sport in 2005, she has written on every subject across the equestrian sphere — from turnout rugs to stable management — and has interviewed gold medallists, world champions and winners galore. She also has first-hand experience of working in the equestrian industry as a riding instructor and yard manager.