Every body is an equestrian body, which is why August is focusing on size inclusivity on YourDressage. As we share the stories, struggles, and triumphs of plus-size equestrians from across the country, our friends at Horse Dazzle and Kerrits Equestrian Apparel have graciously partnered with us to sponsor a #DressageForEveryBody2026 giveaway for three lucky readers!
By Jessica Thoma
My name is Jessica Thoma, and I am a Grade III para dressage rider. My lovely equine partner, Imantado GOM, fondly known as Manny, is a gorgeous Andalusian, who came to the United States from Spain!
I also have two of my own horses, Albert and Picasso.
Albert is my 23-year-old Thoroughbred cross who has been with me for 13 years. He was an eventer, and we used to jump 3’ courses together. He is a very goofy boy, who often likes to pretend he’s a giraffe.
Picasso, on the other hand, is my five-year-old Gypsy Vanner cross. I have trained him mostly on my own, with the help of friends. He knows fun tricks, like how to smile, kiss, and is learning to do the Spanish walk. He is the sweetest baby horse!
In 2018, I had a near-death experience from a rare form of vasculitis called polyarteritis nodosa (PAN). Vasculitis is an autoimmune disease. I lost circulation to my extremities, and ended up becoming a triple amputee at just 25 years old.
I was introduced to Manny by my trainer and coach, Patti Gruber. While I wasn’t really looking for a new partner when Manny and I found each other, it has definitely turned out to have been a very happy accident! He is a conservative guy, particularly compared to Albert and Picasso, but he can be spunky and goofy. He was once a Grand Prix horse, so he knows all the fancy moves; he is incredible!
I met Patti in February 2026. After seeing me ride, as well as hearing my story and what my goals were, she took me under her wing to help further my para dressage career. She knew the perfect horse for the job. Manny is owned by her long-time student Nori Benck, who has graciously allowed me to partner with him to compete.
I had only ridden Manny four times before our very first time competing together! We only had two weeks to earn the scores to qualify to compete at the Festival of Champions. We immediately got down to business, working hard to establish ourselves as a competitive pair. Our work ethics were well-suited, and we were definitely a match made in heaven.
Getting to ride Manny has shown me that I am very much capable of great things. I feel like he understands me, even though I’m not able to deliver my aids the way he is used to. Riding a horse that can help you out the way that Manny helps and understands me is so important as a para rider.
Manny and I performed our first freestyle recently, and scored well. Manny loves our music, and it was so much fun to ride. I think, to this point, this may be our biggest accomplishment, and I can’t wait to ride it again at Lamplight!
Getting to this point in my career has been a very long and tumultuous road, but every step of the way has been worth it. All of the schooling shows, body aches, early mornings and late nights, heartbreaks, failures, and the absolute joy and accomplishment I feel, I wouldn’t trade for the world.
To be able to compete at the para dressage Grand Prix level, with a fabulous horse like Manny, has been an absolute dream come true. While I am proud of our accomplishments so far, I cannot wait to see how we improve with more time together.
Horses have always been my rock, my happy place, my very reason for being. They give me confidence in my everyday life, and I have met so many wonderful people because of horses. I am able to remind myself that I am powerful and resilient. I, and many others, have overcome some very difficult obstacles, just to put a boot in the stirrup. This sport is not easy, and we should be lifting each other up to allow for growth and confidence in all riders.
To those facing big obstacles, I say, “Don’t give up!” There’s so much beauty in being strong. You don’t have to be a certain body type, or size, to be STRONG. A supportive network is the key in this sport, so don’t be afraid to reach out to other riders. Whether for advice or to ask questions, there are so many people in this sport with a wealth of knowledge. Para equestrians may have a different approach to the same question, and be able to offer a different perspective. It’s lovely to try different things and see what works best for you!
My mantra has always been that I’m always trying to be the best me that I can be. That goes for my partnership with Manny, my own horses, and any other horses whose saddles I sit in. I plan to compete on the international stage, and go as far in the sport as I can go!
