Jessica Springsteen is the daughter of musician Bruce Springsteen and Patti Scialfa. At the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, a 29-year-old equestrian earned a silver medal after securing a place on Team USA’s jumping team on July 23. This was her first time competing in the Olympics.
The group of four also consisted of McLain Ward, who has won two gold medals, Kent Farrington, who won a silver medal, and Laura Kraut, who won a gold medal.
Facts About Jessica Springsteen You Didn’t Know:
1. Jessica Began Horseriding At The Age of 5
At the young age of 5, Jessica embarked on her journey as a competitive rider and has been passionate about equestrianism ever since. She spoke to People about her early memory of horseriding.
“I started riding when I was really little. My mom had always wanted to ride so when we moved to New Jersey she started taking lessons. Our home is right across the road from one of the top junior training barns – and I went right into that when I was a teenager.”
In a 2019 interview with CNN, she expressed that riding has been an integral aspect of her life.
“We had a really grounded upbringing, and it was nice that I always had riding to focus on and have something a little bit for myself. I think that really helped me grow and become who I am today. And it taught me to work hard and to dedicate myself to something.”
2. She Holds Various Horseriding Championship Titles
The impressive horseback rider, currently holding the third spot on the U.S. rankings, already boasts several championship victories, such as the 2008 ASPCA Maclay Finals and the 2009 WEF Excellence in Equitation Championship.
According to her Equestrian Federation biography, Jessica Springsteen has achieved numerous victories, including coming in first place at the 2019 CSI4* Sweden H&M Grand Prix and winning the Prestige Speed Prize at Jumping Verona.
3. Jessica Springsteen Is Dating Lorenzo De Luca
The passion for horseback riding that Jessica holds has also influenced her love life: she is currently in a relationship with Lorenzo de Luca, an Italian athlete who specializes in riding and jumping.
Sources say that the two have been together since 2018. During an equestrian event in Miami in April 2019, Jessica and Lorenzo were caught in a public display of affection in the VIP area, with Bruce and Patti seated right next to them.
4. Jessica’s Parents Frequently Attend Her Contests To Cheer Her On
Jessica Springsteen’s father was actively manifesting about his daughter’s first appearance on Team USA. Recently, Bruce made a comeback to Broadway following the initial closure due to COVID-19.
Talking about her parents, Jessica revealed that her parents make it a point to attend her competitions whenever possible.
“They make it to the shows as often as they can. When they’re not here, they’re watching online. I love having them with me.”
She continued,
“I think it’s important to have your family support you. It’s definitely fun to have them around. They’re the best supporters. They’re always happy no matter how I do, which is nice.”
5. Jessica Springsteen Aims To Compete In Olympics
During her time in college, Jessica Springsteen attempted to secure a spot in the Olympics and described it as a fantastic opportunity.
When asked about her future goals, she said,
“We kind of have to see how it goes.”
She further added,
“It’s so much about timing and having the right horse at the right time, and have everything going well, so it’s definitely something that I’m working towards – and will continue working towards until I get there.”
Although the 2021 Tokyo Olympics marked her first appearance at the games, Jessica has previous experience at the event as she was a reserve at the 2012 London Olympics. However, she did not qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics.
