Favorite Quote: “Suck it up, Buttercup!”
Nominator, Ellie Crosby, asserts her friend, Alexa “Lexie” Overbey, is a true “Horse Whisperer.” At only 11 years old, Lexie’s dedication to the discipline of Western Dressage and horses in general is not only amazing, but inspiring, according to Ellie. Her kindness in the barn to both her teammates and boarders, combined with her commitment to caring daily for the 20 + horses show her genuine devotion to equestrian life. Grandmother, Carrie Fletcher, describes Lexie as a “force to be reckoned with.”
Training at the HHH Ranch in Jacksonville, Florida, with owner, Mel Taglione, has helped Lexie achieve several championships in Western Dressage, including showing at the Northeast Florida Dressage Association and winning Highpoint. Support from her family, including her older brother and Mom, Lynda, has enabled her to become the driven, dedicated rider she is today.
When asked what makes her want to ride, Lexie responds, “Because it’s fun, of course!” Rocket Cadillac, a Quarter Horse, is her partner, and Lexie says her biggest accomplishment in her riding career thus far is working with Rocket to bend and flex correctly. “We’re getting there!” she states.
The biggest challenge this Young Rider has faced is getting back on after a severe knee injury. In fact, Carrie says the connection between her granddaughter and the horses is a loving one, and “it is as if they know that the medical treatment that Alexa undergoes makes her vulnerable to injury and [the horses] take extra care of her.” Living by the quote, “Suck it up, Buttercup,” Lexie makes the best of any situation and embodies positivity and encouragement.
Her short-term goal is to continue to work with Rocket “to get the connection and eventually be able to achieve collection.” In ten years, Lexie sees herself running a barn and teaching lessons.
Age:
11
Discipline:
Western, Western Dressage
Hometown:
Jacksonville, FL
Trainer:
Mel Taglione
School:
Homeschooled
