Alex Matz

Hometown: Coatesville, Pa. Birthday: 10/28/1996 Sport/Disciplines: Jumping

Alex Matz was born into an equestrian family, the son of Olympic medalist and Kentucky Derby winning trainer Michael Matz and D.D. Matz. Growing up in this environment, he developed a passion for riding and competition from an early age. As one of four children, Alex and his sibling's childhoods were steeped in the equestrian world. 
 
After completing high school, he pursued higher education at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee, where he earned a degree in economics. During his senior year of high school and into his freshman year of college, Matz expanded his equestrian experience by working with racehorses for his father, further enhancing his skills and understanding of horses at the top level of sport. 
 
Upon graduation, Matz took the opportunity to refine his craft in Europe, working alongside former world champion Jos Lansink in Belgium. This experience allowed him to gain invaluable insights into high-level show jumping competitions and training techniques. 
 
In recent years, Alex has made a name for himself on the international show jumping circuit. His impressive results include multiple top finishes in prestigious competitions. Notably, in November 2024, he secured first place in the CSI5*-W Longines FEI World Cup event in Toronto aboard his horse, Ikigai, and won the CSI5* Centennial Cup on Cashew CR. His consistent performances have established him as a competitive force in the sport.