Lucas Hernández has concluded the 2026 Spanish Children's Show Jumping Championship with a commendable fourth place in the Children's* category riding Hayley, a result that takes on even greater significance due to the difficult circumstances in which the young rider faced the competition.
The championship, held in Segovia from 1 to 6 September, represented a goal for Hernández that just a few weeks previously had seemed difficult to achieve. Only 25 days before the competition, the Spanish rider suffered a fracture of the fifth metatarsal in his foot, an injury that completely compromised his preparation.
The first two weeks following the fracture were especially difficult. On crutches and unable to use the riding boot, Hernández could barely train and, when he began getting back on the horse, he had to do so barefoot and without stirrups due to the pain. In fact, he was only able to train with any degree of normality during the week prior to the Spanish Championship.
Despite his lack of preparation and the discomfort he was still carrying, Hernández decided to take part in the competition alongside Hayley. The pairing managed to stay among the best in the category until finishing in a notable fourth national position in Children's *.
“Perhaps for some it’s simply a fourth place. For me it means so much more,” explained the young rider after finishing his participation, particularly highlighting the effort made to be able to reach the championship and compete.
Hernández wanted to thank his family and his entire team for the support received over these weeks, as well as dedicating a few special words to Hayley, his partner on this complicated journey to the Spanish Championship.
Congratulations, Lucas!
