Crystal Clear Legacy is the essence of her story.
Crystal’s passion for equestrian sport is reflected in her commitment to leaving a lasting impact on the world of equestrian athletics. Every step she takes is driven by a desire to not only compete but to inspire others and create a legacy that will stand the test of time.
The Early Years
Crystal’s love for horses began at 2 years of age, and still to this day, her love of the horse is what drives her. She is the first in her family to compete professionally. Born and raised in Orange County, CA, she started riding at the age of 4 and competitively at 6. She displayed natural talent at an early age and became a competitive force against all ages, including adults. As she moved up the ranks as a junior and amateur rider, her talent was seen by many including well-known trainers like Dale Petterson, who encouraged her to never give up on her goals and dreams.
The Amateur Years
At 19, Crystal went in training with Karen Healey. It was under Karen's tutelage, she acquired a solid foundation in equitation which she applied in the jumper ring. In less than 6 months in training with Karen, she qualified both her mounts for the Prix De Nations classes for West Coast Active Riders at Spruce Meadows, Calgary, Alberta. She also competed in the Young Rider Championship trials. And that same year, Crystal rode to a PCHA Reserve Champion Most Money Award.
The European Years
After much success as an amateur, Crystal continued her riding education immediately after college graduation and accepted an invitation to ride and compete with the Czech World Cup Team. Shortly after, Crystal was invited to train with one of her idols, Nelson "Neco" Pessoa in Belgium. Neco fueled her persistent passion to excel in both competition and importing horses. Crystal still works with her European girlfriends today to import horses and help create champions.
The American Years
Excited to apply what she had learned in Europe, Crystal rode for Cindy Brooks, Nathalie Petschenig, Robyn Steigler. In 2018, Crystal fulfilled a lifelong dream of starting her own business in Northern California, where she produces both horses and clients with competitive consistency and a champion spirit. In 2022, her client won the NorCal Equitation Finals and the following year, her client qualified for equitation finals back east in Pennsylvania and Kentucky.
The Champion Years
In 2024, Crystal won the Woodside Grand Prix and also went on to win the Sacramento International Welcome and clinch the USHJA Jumper Championships. She has numerous wins at the Grand Prix level and is now focused on accumulating points for the FEI Ranking List to qualify for Luxembourg team events, World Cup, World Championships, European Championships, and Olympics.
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Create your own Crystal Clear Legacy by joining our journey.
Crystal is capturing the Olympic spirit by creating a future built on a strong foundation.
Learn more about Crystal’s story
Read more about Crystal’s story in her own words:
For the Moms, A Luxembourg Legacy of Strength and Love
