British rider Jess Mendoza secured a thrilling win in the $200,000 Marines Corps Heritage Foundation 4* Grand Prix at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. Riding In The Air, she outperformed 31 other competitors from 12 nations to claim the top prize. The victory came on February 9, 2026, after a tense jump-off.
The event featured a challenging 1.55m track designed by Peter Grant, testing riders on balance, pace, and precision. Out of 32 starters, seven advanced to the jump-off, with the USA's Ashley Vogel setting the early pace on Otis Blue.
Mendoza, entering third in the jump-off, adapted her strategy on the fly. 'I was third to go with some fast riders behind me, and I knew I had to go for it,' she said. 'I didn’t plan on doing an inside turn, but the person in front of me did it, and I was like, “OMG, I didn’t know I needed to do that!” But she’s so athletic. I know I can do that turn on her, and she’d be right there with me.'
This bold move paid off, as Mendoza and her 13-year-old mare In The Air (Air Jordan Z x VDL Indoctro) delivered the only double clear round, finishing 0.70 seconds ahead of the field. The win earned her $60,000, marking a standout performance in the Florida sun.
Mendoza has owned In The Air for about two years, praising the horse's development. 'She’s always been amazing, but she’s turned into this superstar of a horse. She loves jumping, and I honestly couldn’t be more grateful to have her,' she noted. She also rides the mare's brother, Summerhouse, acquired from the same breeder. Both siblings share the same dam and compete at high levels, though with contrasting personalities.
What stands out most about In The Air, according to Mendoza, is her dedication. 'I think it’s her heart. She’s obviously very talented in a lot of ways, but she just gets in there and wants to give it her absolute best all the time. She’s always trying for me.'
This victory highlights Mendoza's growing prowess in international showjumping, building on her partnership with the athletic mare.
