Jessica Weston from Worcestershire is the latest NAF Shining Star
Thursday 31 July 2025
Jessica Weston, from Droitwich, Worcestershire, has been awarded the latest NAF Shining Star accolade. Jessica, a member of the British Showjumping Hereford and Worcester Academy, was nominated for the award by her coach, Hannah Jackson.
Over the moon to discover she had been nominated for the NAF Shining Star Award, Jessica said: “I was really happy when I found out I had been awarded the NAF Shining Star Award. Hopefully, it shows my dedication and commitment to the sport.”
Eleven-year-old Jessica currently competes with two ponies: Stormin Norman, known as Storm in the stable, whom she has ridden for the past 1.5 years, and Fairley Picador, known as Pic at home, whom she has ridden for 2.5 years.
Talking fondly about her ponies, Jessica said: “Storm has the heart of a lion and is so easy to manage. In the ring, he knows exactly what to do. Storm has many years of experience behind him, and I’m very lucky to have the ride on him from his owner, Victoria Wilkins.
“Pic is also an experienced pony who is owned by Penny Coe. He has so much talent and can sometimes be a little bit cheeky, but he’s very fun to ride.”
Speaking about Jessica’s achievements, her mum, Anna, said: “One of Jessica’s biggest highlights so far of her riding career was finishing second in both the 138cm Bronze League and the Stepping Stones 138cm Finals in 2024. She has high hopes of beating those placings this year.
“Another highlight has been representing the Hereford and Worcester Academy at the Academy Championships, as well as competing at the Arena UK Halloween Spectacular and the PoP Festival at Aintree International Equestrian Centre. Jessica’s aims for 2025 and beyond are to start jumping 1.05m–1.10m courses, with the ultimate dream of one day competing at the Horse of the Year Show,” added Anna.
Hannah Jackson, Hereford and Worcester Academy Lead Coach, said: “Jessica has been a member of the Area 33 Academy for a few years now. She attends regular training, works hard at home to put everything into practice, and is now achieving fantastic results.
“She’s committed to keeping her ponies fit and competition-ready and is incredibly passionate about her sport. Her determination and desire to win are paying off, as she’s enjoyed a hugely successful summer season. Jessica has become more driven than ever and is looking forward to a fantastic winter ahead.”
When asked what she most enjoys about being a member of the Hereford and Worcester Academy, Jessica commented: “I love being able to spend time with my friends and support each other at competitions. Hannah is a super coach and always encourages me to do my best.”
Lisa Field from NAF added: “Jessica is a wonderful example of what the NAF Shining Star Award represents. Her dedication, work ethic, and passion for the sport are clear to see, both in training and in her competition results. We’re thrilled to recognise her progress and commitment, and we look forward to seeing what she accomplishes next. Well done, Jessica!”
The NAF Shining Star Award was introduced when NAF became a British Showjumping Business Partner. The award is for members of a Junior Academy who have shown a great deal of commitment, progression, and outstanding behaviour, along with their riding ability and much more. Riders are nominated by their lead coach and then judged and awarded by NAF to one person each month.
For further information on NAF follow them on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates and rider stories or visit the NAF website at naf-equine.eu/uk
Further information on the British Showjumping Academies can be found here: britishshowjumping.co.uk/training/Academies-1
