Edwina Tops-Alexander

Edwina Tops-Alexander is one of the most renowned female riders in the world, known for her achievements in equestrian sports and her unique style, which has made her a prominent figure not only in the sport but also on the international scene.

Edwina discovered her passion for horse riding at just eight years old when she decided to ride her neighbor’s pony, Bo Jangles, who frequently escaped into her garden. Her love for horses quickly grew, leading her to win the Australian Young Rider Championship in 1995.

At the same time, she attended the Sydney College of Physical Education and worked as a personal trainer and aerobics instructor, demonstrating great determination and versatility from a young age.

In 1998, Edwina moved to Europe with the dream of competing against the best riders in the world. To finance the trip and transport her horse, Mr. Dundee, she sold her car. She settled in Belgium, where she initially worked for the famous rider Ludo Phillippaerts, an experience that allowed her to refine her skills and start making a name for herself on the international circuit.

Her Olympic debut came in 2008 in Beijing, where she finished seventh in the team event and ninth in the individual competition. She later competed in the 2012 London Olympics, ranking 20th in the individual event and 10th in the team competition, and in the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she placed ninth in the individual event.

Edwina was twice named the best female rider in the Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT), in 2011 and 2012, and she is the first female rider to surpass one million euros in earnings from this competition.

Beyond her remarkable career, Edwina is known for her determined approach and ability to overcome challenges—qualities that have enabled her to achieve extraordinary milestones and serve as an inspiration to many young riders.

In 2011, Edwina married Jan Tops, a rider and founder of the Global Champions Tour, with whom she shares a passion for equestrian sports. In 2017, their daughter, Chloe, was born. Edwina is also known by the nickname "Winnie," a shortened version of her name that echoes the word "winner."