In the world of equestrian sports, few riders embody the blend of resilience, ambition, and dedication as well as Alex Crown. From her roots in the United States to her current base in Belgium, Alex’s journey has been marked by significant challenges, remarkable achievements, and a deep-seated passion for horses that has guided her through the ups and downs of her career. In a recent conversation, Alex opened up about her experiences, sharing insights into her life as a rider, her approach to overcoming adversity, and her vision for the future.
A Passion for Horses from the Start
For Alex, the love for horses has been a lifelong affair. "Ever since I was little, I’ve been horse obsessed," she admits. This obsession guided her through her academic years, where every school project, and every art piece, was centred around horses. This passion led her to pursue a career in show jumping, a sport that demands physical prowess, mental fortitude, and an unbreakable bond with the horse.
Alex’s journey in the sport has taken her across the globe, from her beginnings in the United States to her current home in Antwerp, Belgium. Despite the geographical and cultural shifts, one thing has remained constant: her unwavering dedication to the sport and her horses.
Overcoming Adversity: The Road to Recovery
In 2019, Alex faced one of the most challenging moments of her career. A freak accident at home led to a severe fall, resulting in two brain bleeds and a concussion that left her hospitalized in the ICU for four days. The injury was a significant setback, not just physically but mentally as well. "I lost my ability to speak for a couple of months," she recalls. "It was a pretty crazy time."
The accident shook Alex’s confidence, leaving her more cautious in the ring. "I became quite timid," she shares. "I didn’t want to fall off again, mostly because I didn’t want to hit my head again." This fear was compounded by the mental challenges she already faced with keeping her nerves under control during competitions.
However, Alex’s story is one of resilience. She didn’t allow this setback to define her. Through the support of a great team, sports psychologists, and her unwavering determination, she gradually rebuilt her confidence. "Slowly but surely, I’m starting to overcome that," she says. "I think I’m in a pretty good place now."
The Role of Training and Support
Throughout her recovery and ongoing career, the role of her trainers has been pivotal. Working with Lorenzo De Luca and later Maggie McAllary, Alex has benefited from their expertise and support. "Lorenzo gave me an immense amount of confidence and made me have fun with the sport," she notes. This sense of enjoyment was crucial in her journey back to top form.
With Maggie, who trains both in Florida and Antwerp, Alex has found a trainer who reassures her and helps her feel prepared when entering the show ring. "Maggie makes sure that I feel prepared when I walk into the show ring. I believe in myself, my plan, and my horse."
Beyond training, Alex emphasizes the importance of having a strong support system. Whether it’s her team at the stables, her family, or her boyfriend Marco, these relationships play a crucial role in keeping her grounded and focused. "I’m very lucky. I have a great support system. I’m not alone in this, which I think is the biggest part."
Balancing Life and Ambition
Despite her intense focus on her career, Alex recognizes the importance of balance. Currently, she is preparing to begin business school in Antwerp, where she plans to study international business. This decision reflects her broader ambitions beyond the arena. "I’m excited for that chapter," she says, highlighting her desire to develop a sustainable revenue stream alongside her riding career.
Alex’s approach to her career is thoughtful and strategic. She aims to manage a few investment horses each year, bringing them to America to sell them to riders who match her values—those who seek brave, well-trained horses suitable for amateurs or less experienced riders. "I just want to make other people happy, find horses and riders that match well together, and see them accomplish their goals," she explains.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
As she looks to the future, Alex is clear about her goals. She aims to continue developing as a rider, with a particular focus on rebuilding her confidence and achieving success in the ring. At the same time, she is committed to growing her business endeavours, leveraging her unique position as both a rider and entrepreneur.
For young riders or amateurs looking up to her, Alex offers simple yet powerful advice: "Never give up and keep going. Keep being determined and keep trying." Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people, and the ability to learn from every experience.
Conclusion: A Rider’s Journey of Resilience and Ambition
Alex Crown’s journey in the equestrian world is one of overcoming adversity, embracing new opportunities, and staying true to her passion for horses. Her story is an inspiration to riders and entrepreneurs alike, demonstrating that with the right mindset and support, it’s possible to achieve great things even in the face of significant challenges.
As she continues to navigate the complexities of her career, both in the arena and in business, Alex remains committed to her goals, driven by her love for horses and her ambition to succeed. Her journey is far from over, and with each new chapter, she continues to build a legacy of resilience, determination, and excellence.