Renowned Irish equestrian and professional horse trainer, Jessica Jane Harrington, widely recognized as one of Ireland’s top three-day event riders, has found solace and strength in the noble art of horsemanship throughout her battle with breast cancer.

For Harrington, horses have become much more than mere companions. As she eagerly looks ahead to The Derby, where she will proudly field her second-ever runner, Harrington passionately describes these magnificent animals as the epitome of therapy in her life.

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In an interview with Horse and Houd the 76-year-old Irish Gold Cup winner, bravely shared her journey of battling breast cancer since her diagnosis last October. Highlighting the invaluable support and impact horses have had during her treatment she said, “The horses really have been a massive help to me and I’m really lucky to have a massive support team here.”

Harrington added, “My daughters Kate and Emma and my son-in-law have been around all winter keeping things going and I did my best to get out every single day that I could to look at the horses, because that was the best therapy I reckoned I had.”

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Her second starter, Sprewell, is set to participate in the upcoming Betfred Derby at Epsom Downs Racecourse on June 3. While she may not attend in person, Harrington’s dedication remains unwavering.

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She articulated her views by saying, “I went racing last Friday to Leopardstown. I didn’t actually go on Sunday, but I go when it’s nice and near and when I can. I’d be most likely to watch the Derby from home, but I’ll see how I get on.” 

Jessica Harrington triumphs over cancer’s grasp with an unwavering spirit.

Despite facing cancer treatment and the loss of her husband to the disease in 2014, the Arkle Challenge Trophy winner remains determined. Managing her horses daily, she candidly discussed with Irish Mirror the impact of losing her hair.

She said, “When my hair started falling out, I said I can’t bear this and I just went off and got my head shaved.”

Despite this, she expressed her determination to fight the disease, saying, “Things are great and I’m lucky enough to have finished the worst part of it now that the chemo is done. We’re moving on to the next stage now and it’ll take a bit longer, but I hope that I’ll be out and about again very shortly.” Jessica Harrington did not let cancer slow her down.

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