Negrense Rider Sophia Lacson Selected to Represent the Philippines in FEI Asia-Pacific Rising Star Academy

Sixteen-year-old showjumping athlete Sophia Louie Begre-Lacson has been officially selected to represent the Philippines in the prestigious Asia-Pacific Rising Star Academy (APRA), an elite development program under the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) Regional Group VIII.

The Asia-Pacific Rising Star Academy is a one-year strategic talent identification and high-performance development program designed to bridge the gap between national competition and international elite sport. Only 12 riders in the region are selected to participate in the Academy, making Sophia’s inclusion a significant achievement for both her and Philippine equestrian sport.

For Sophia, this opportunity carries even deeper meaning.

Raised on Negros Island, Sophia’s journey into competitive showjumping began far from the polished arenas of international sport. With limited access to elite horses, structured systems, and high-performance facilities in her early years, she developed her foundation riding and training local ponies—largely self-taught, guided by determination and an unwavering belief that Filipino riders can compete on equal footing with the region’s best.

The APRA program consists of four international legs across the Asia-Pacific region, each following a rigorous five-day format that combines intensive training clinics, educational workshops, and a CSI Youth competition. The curriculum includes technical drills, mental performance development, athlete fitness, horsemanship, and equine welfare—creating a comprehensive pathway toward elite sport.

Participants must meet strict eligibility criteria, including age (16–21), technical proficiency at 110cm and above, and a demonstrated commitment to long-term development. Final selections are conducted by World Championship and WEG rider Daniela Moguel, in coordination with FEI Solidarity.

Sophia is no stranger to representing the country internationally. She previously earned a silver medal in the 1-Meter Team Event at the FEI SEA Youth Cup in Bangkok (2023) and has competed in CSI Youth events in Seoul, Jeju, Malaysia, and in competitions in Jakarta. Her consistent performances have demonstrated both technical skill and composure under pressure.

Now, through the Asia-Pacific Rising Star Academy, she will train and compete alongside the region’s top emerging talents while flying the Philippine flag.

Despite the challenges and limitations, Sophia remains focused on her objective: to qualify to represent the Philippines at the 2027 Southeast Asian Games.

Her selection sends a powerful message to aspiring athletes across the country: international pathways are possible—even for those who begin outside traditional centers of advantage.

Sophia shared: “My goal is to one day make the sport more inclusive in the country by developing my own local horses, and coaching my own athletes.”

As she embarks on this year-long international campaign, Sophia carries with her the pride of Negros, the hopes of Philippine equestrian sport, and the conviction that grassroots beginnings can lead to global arenas.*