Inside the World of Elite Show Jumping: How Alec Lawler Builds Championship Horses

Alec Lawler is a world-renowned show jumping athlete, entrepreneur, and equine investment specialist whose career is defined by excellence, precision, and a deep understanding of the international sport horse industry. With a Bachelor of Science in Earth Systems from Stanford University, Alec brings a rare combination of academic discipline, global awareness, and athletic mastery to everything he does—both in the saddle and in business. His journey from a talented young rider to a respected international competitor and founder of Lawler Show Jumping LLC is a story of dedication, strategy, and an unwavering commitment to building championship horses.

Early Path to International Success

From a young age, Alec demonstrated exceptional natural ability and a fierce competitive spirit. His early achievements include winning team gold and silver medals at the North American Junior Rider Championships in 2008 and 2009, accomplishments that signaled a promising career in elite sport. In 2010, he further distinguished himself by placing 6th individually at the North American Young Rider Championships, cementing his reputation as a rising star.

These early successes laid the foundation for a career marked by international experience. Alec has since competed at the highest levels of FEI competition across North America and Europe, gaining invaluable exposure to diverse training systems, competitive environments, and world-class horses.

Grand Prix Victories & Global Competition

Alec’s competitive record includes major victories that showcase his skill and composure in high-pressure environments. Notably, he won the CSI 3* Grand Prix of Lummen, Belgium (2016) and the CSI 3* Grand Prix of Traverse City, Michigan (2022)—milestones that highlight his ability to perform at the international level against elite fields.

Beyond these wins, Alec has achieved multiple top finishes in the National Grand Prix of Woodside, the National Grand Prix of the Desert, and numerous FEI ranking classes. His competitive consistency, coupled with his technical riding style, has earned him recognition throughout the global show jumping community.

Founding of Lawler Show Jumping LLC

In 2019, Alec Lawler expanded his professional footprint by founding Lawler Show Jumping LLC, a company focused on the acquisition, development, and sale of elite sport horses. His vision was clear: to bridge the gap between European and North American equine markets, offering clients access to top-quality horses supported by expert training and transparent communication.

Under Alec’s leadership, Lawler Show Jumping has grown into a trusted operation that selects, imports, develops, and sells dozens of horses annually. His hands-on approach—riding, training, evaluating, and managing each horse—ensures that clients receive animals with both potential and proven progress.

Building Championship Horses: Alec’s Signature Approach

What sets Alec apart is his meticulous process for developing horses into confident, successful competitors. His method blends classical flatwork, modern training theory, and personalized progression plans tailored to each horse’s temperament and ability. He emphasizes mental confidence, correct foundations, and gradual exposure to technical challenges. This balanced approach helps his horses grow into athletes capable of competing at the highest level.

Alec also leverages his extensive network of European breeders, American owners, veterinarians, and trainers. These relationships allow him to identify talented horses early and match them with the right riders and investors.

A Leader in Equine Investment & International Strategy

Beyond his athletic accomplishments, Alec is widely respected for his strategic understanding of the global equine market. He analyzes trends, evaluates pricing disparities, and forms strategic partnerships that benefit both his business and his clients. His insight into the differences between European and North American training systems, along with his business acumen, has become a cornerstone of Lawler Show Jumping’s success.

A Reputation Built on Excellence

Today, Alec Lawler stands as a leading figure in international show jumping—an athlete, entrepreneur, and visionary who continues to set new standards in both competition and equine investment. His commitment to quality, integrity, and long-term development makes him not only a successful rider but a trusted partner for owners, investors, and horse enthusiasts worldwide.