Littlemax Future Stars: Jess Rimmer

Jess Rimmer didn't always want to be an event rider. In fact, as a child, she'd have chosen her Barbie Dream House over a muddy yard any day. Fast forward to Blenheim, and Jess has just jumped double clear with The Spice Merchant as part of the Rising Lions. Nicole catches up with her while the smile is still firmly on her face to talk about the journey from reluctant pony rider to one of Britain's rising eventing talents. From studying biochemistry while competing a string of horses to finding her place at William Fox-Pitt's yard, Jess shares the people, horses and opportunities that have shaped her career so far. There's plenty about Basil, the horse who keeps saying yes, and the ambitions Jess is working towards. Highlights The pony that changed Jess's mind about riding. Growing up with a five-star event rider for a mum and the support that came without pressure. Balancing a biochemistry degree with competing seven or eight horses. Learning from William Fox-Pitt and Jackie Potts. Why you don't have to follow the traditional youth team pathway to succeed. The £1 pony who helped Jess reach the Young Rider Championships. How The Spice Merchant, better known as Basil, became her four-star partner. What representing Great Britain and riding for the Rising Lions means to Jess. Her ambitions for five-star success and the two horses she thinks could help her get there. Guest Jess Rimmer – British event rider and Rising Lions team member, joining Nicole fresh from a double clear at Blenheim with The Spice Merchant. This episode is brought to you by Littlemax, part of the Bedmax family. Their dust-extracted pine shavings are designed to provide a clean, comfortable bed for horses and ponies. Discover more and find your nearest stockist at bedmaxshavings.com/littlemax. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts, and follow the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast for more from across the sport.