Young show jumping star Jessica Mendoza, who has just turned 10, enjoyed an "exceptional" run at the Unex Towerlands arena's junior BSJA show in Essex.

The Wootton Bassett based rider began her run at the three day show, which drew many of the country's top ponies, with a victory in the 128cms Championship on the opening day.

"There were 15 in the class and seven were eliminated, so it was a pretty tough course," said Jessica's dad Mr Paul Mendoza. "She was last to go in the jump-off on Charley's Angel and produced a really fast round to win."

On the second day Jessica headed the 128cms Small Pony Championship and she then won the 128cms Derby on the final day, both on the consistent Charley's Angel.

"The course on the second day was also over a big track and Jessica jumped the only clear," Mr Mendoza continued. "Then she added the Novice Pony Derby title to her tally. This was on a four year old, the 138cms Millionaire Dollar Baby. We've only had the mare for four months and she's a real Grand Prix pony in the making."

Jessica will be going to the Wales and West Show near Chepstow at the end of the month to take part in a brand new BSJA Area teams competition, which will run separate sections for 128cms, 138cms and 148cms ponies and should prove a popular addition to the junior calendar.

n Lechlade-based Jay Halim took two horses into the top 10 at the Ballygraffan International one day event in Northern Ireland.

Jay, who is also a successful show jumper, finished 8th in the top CIC on Ellfield April Joy, a ride he took over this year from Polly Gundry.

The new partnership were fourth on their first outing together at Gatcombe one day event last month and, on this latest form, look set for a fine season.

Jay was also the best English rider in the step lower CIC, where he finished third on Jubla. He took on this ride last summer and the pair have made the top 12 on all their 2006 outings to date