A look into the Equestrian career of senior Alexa Bell

FRESNO, Calif. - As a graduate of nearby Buchanan High School in Clovis, senior western rider Alexa Bell didn't come to Fresno State with the intention of becoming a Division I student-athlete. In fact, it took her two years to find out she would become one.

"I am from Clovis," explained Bell. "I didn't join the team until my junior year so I had already had college friends, but once I joined the team I felt like I met the people that I was supposed to meet during freshman year. It is super fun, I have made a lot of friends that I can definitely see as bridesmaids down the road."

With a fairly short riding career prior to attending Fresno State, the senior has found a place on the Bulldog equestrian team that allowed her to expand her riding horizons and grow as an equestrian rider and a person as well.

"I was 15 when I started riding. I never thought I would be doing this when I first started riding. It is really cool to get all of the features of being a student-athlete, but being able to participate in a sport that isn't so typical to most is pretty cool to me."

Representing Fresno State means a lot for the Valley native. In her years on the team, she has learned more about the horse world than she ever would have if she wasn't given the opportunity to join.

With only a short amateur career compared to some, Bell had made her name known in the show arenas. Prior to her competitions at Fresno State, she had acquired a list of honors. In 2016, she was named Pacific Coast Quarter Horse Association (PCQHA) All-Around Youth 1 Champion, PCQHA Champion in Novice Youth Western Riding, Novice Youth Western Horsemanship and Novice Youth Western Pleasure.

On the other side of her riding techniques, Bell was named American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Level 1 Amateur Rookie Hunt Seat Champion.

Collegiate riding is a completely different style. Bell came to Fresno State and had to make major adjustments to the program, her teammates and the horse environment.

"Coming in as a junior was definitely different than how I would imagine a freshman coming in, because they get more years and more experience with those years. It was hard at first to try out all of the different horses, but it was definitely a learning experience."

Entering a program with over 30 horses and over 30 teammates, it may feel overwhelming at times to find your place on the team. That wasn't the case for Bell. Fresno State equestrian took her in and made her apart of the family. She played a role on the Horsemanship squad in the last two years.

Although not one of the riders in the draw, Bell has learned what it takes to be a good teammate, a better show woman, and how to manage horses, arenas and shows. In addition to all of the hands-on skills Bell has learned, she has gained friends and memories that will last forever.

Fresno State equestrian has been a place where girls can share a passion and grow friendships through their love for horses, no matter when or how you join the team.

"Fresno State was a fun time. I grew a lot and I made some lifelong friends along the way. It is a place where I learned not only in the classroom but on horses' backs as well."

"Just the Ticket to Build Our Community" –The Bulldog Scholarship Fund gives Bulldog alumni, fans and friends the opportunity to support Fresno State Athletics and the student-athletes who inspire them. For information about how you can support the Bulldog Scholarship Fund, please visit www.bulldogscholarshipfund.com or call 559-278-7160.

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A look into the Equestrian career of senior Alexa Bell

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