International young horse rider Jessica Lynn Thomas will be joining the 2025 SWB Equestrian Weeks in Flyinge as the test rider for the 4-year-old dressage horses.
"She brings a wealth of experience, feel, and expertise in young horse development," Swedish warmblood stated.
Jessica is a Swedish rider with deep roots in international equestrian sport. She first traveled to Germany at age 17 and, after living between countries for several years, has now been based there for over a decade. Together with her husband, Raphaël Thomas from France, she runs a training and competition yard with a team of four staff members from various countries. This international environment creates a dynamic daily life where different methods and experiences meet.
The couple specializes in training young horses aged 3 to 7, with a focus on preparing them for championships in Germany, the Netherlands, and Denmark. Jessica has also competed in Sweden, most recently winning the 5-year-old dressage class at the Breeders Trophy in 2020 with the SWB horse Mr. Grey VH.
The 41-year old is now looking forward to returning to her home country after many years abroad.
"I’m really looking forward to being the test rider during SWB Equestrian Weeks and the Breeders Trophy. It’s inspiring to see how the Swedish system is structured today and what has changed. After following young horse classes and championships in Germany, Holland, and Denmark, I’m curious to see what similarities and differences exist and what Sweden can learn from others, as well as what we can contribute ourselves," said Jessica Lynn Thomas.
"To me, the most important thing is that the horse wants to come to its rider, especially when it feels unsure or afraid," said Thoms. "Rules and structure are important, but trust is even more crucial. The horse needs to feel that it can turn to the rider for safety, just like a child turns to a parent. It must trust the rider more than its surroundings, and that kind of relationship is built through respect, clarity, and mutual attentiveness."
Thomas succeeds Benjamin Werndl who was test rider in 2023 and 2024.
Photo © Astrid Appels
Related Links
Benjamin Werndl Re-Invited as Test Rider for 2024 Swedish Warmblood Young Horse Championships
Benjamin Werndl, Guest Judge Rider for the 2023 Swedish Warmblood Young Horse Championship
Cathrine Dufour Returns as Test Rider for 2022 Swedish Breeders' Trophy
Dufour to Succeed Dujardin as Test Rider for 2020 Swedish Breeders Trophy
Patrik Kittel Re-invited as Test Rider for 2014 Swedish Young Horse Championships
Patrik Kittel Invited as Test Rider for 2013 Swedish Young Horse Championships