The two Aledo High School Students are both members of the North Texas Eventing Association, which is under the main body of the United States Eventing Association. Both began riding at an early age and have been competing for almost as long.
And they are quite good. For example, they both recently received top ribbons in their divisions at the Texas Eventing Association Banquet, meaning they led the state in competing in 2025.
Eventing is an equestrian triathlon testing a horse and rider’s versatility and partnership through three phases. They are dressage (flat ground), cross-country (natural obstacles), and show jumping (fences).
It originated as a military cavalry test and is now an Olympic sport.
“I hope to one day compete professionally and represent our nation in the Olympics,” Jackson, a junior at AHS, said. “It will take a lot of hard work and time, but I hope to go pro one day.”
Spain, also a junior, said she is also considering a pro career in the sport, should it present itself.
I would love to continue competing at higher levels and see how far I can go in the sport,” she said. “While I am focused on balancing school and riding right now, competing professionally in the future is something I would consider if the opportunity and circumstances are right.”
Both also ride for Curragh Equestrian Center, which is based in Forth Worth.
The eventing season typically runs from early spring to fall, but riding takes place all year long.
Jackson finished No. 1 in the nation for the Novice Interscholastic Eventing League, second in the nation for Junior Novice, and sixth at the American Eventing Championships held in California at the Novice level. She said another accomplishment she holds dear to her heart is finishing third in the nation at the 2024 American Eventing Championships in Kentucky at the Beginner Novice level.
Spain, likewise, enjoyed much success in multiple events, earning consistent scores and moving up in confidence and skill. She also qualified for the American Eventing Championships.
Her resume also includes first and third-place finishes at Texas Rose Horse Park, first at Willow Draw Charity, second and third-place posting in the North Texas Eventing Association, two time Interscholastic champion, and a reserve Interscholastic championship.
Jackson said the thrill of competing is an unimaginable and addictive feeling.
“Adrenaline is often pumping through my veins every phase with the thrill of competition,” she said. “This sport will test a competitor’s mental and physical capacity every time, and will make them hungry for a win.
“But every time I compete, I hold a belief close to my heart that I do it for the love of the horse.”
Spain said the excitement of competition combines preparation, focus, and nerves. “Galloping across the cross-country course, trusting my horse, and successfully completing all three phases is incredibly rewarding,” she said. “There’s a strong sense of accomplishment that comes from knowing how much work goes into every competition.”
Both come from competitive families. Jackson’s father was renowned for motocross, go-karting, and running cross country, while her mother was competitive in academics, tennis, and volleyball.
“Though my family is competitive, we like to believe that we are modest in our accomplishments,” she said with a smile.
Spain said her family is filled with goal-focused people.
“They always strive to do their bests, whether that be sports, academics, or work,” she said. “They are very supportive and encourage me to work hard, set goals, and stay committed. Their support plays a big role in helping me succeed.”
Jackson said she is leaning toward applying to Johns Hopkins University to major in biology, with the hopes of becoming an anesthesiologist one day. The school’s equestrian program doesn’t currently offer eventing, but should that change, she said she’d be interested in competing.
Spain is still weighing her options, but hopes to attend a school that will allow her to continue riding.
“I’ve mainly focused on universities in the east because there is a lot of opportunity for me to continue riding and learning,” Spain said. “Continuing eventing while pursuing my education is very important to me.
“Eventing is not offered as an official sport at all schools, but many colleges have eventing clubs. I would plan to join the club and continue training and competing independently while attending school. This would allow me to balance my education with my commitment to riding and stay active in the sport even if it isn’t a program through the university.”
“Without eventing, I wouldn’t be the person I am today,” Jackson said, adding the sport has taught her patience, self-control, adaptability, and discipline.
“None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of my wonderful family and trainers. Thanks to them, I’ve been able to spend countless hours progressing in this sport.”
Spain said eventing has taught her responsibility, time management, resilience, and teamwork.
“It’s more than just a sport. It’s a partnership with my horse and a lifelong learning opportunity that continues to shape who I am,” she said.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here