At just nine years old, Alexia Easom is making waves in South African figure skating, having won two international titles and dreams of competing in the Olympics.
South Africa (23 July 2025) – At just nine years old, Alexia Easom is skating circles around the competition, literally. At the 2025 SAFSA National Championships, she claimed two gold medals, one in singles and another in solo dance.
“Winning at Nationals is always special,” she says. “I felt proud, excited, and happy. I was just glad I performed well.” Despite her love for both disciplines, she’s quick to confess, “My favourite is figure skating, because I like the jumping part.”
Balancing a demanding training schedule with school and other activities might sound overwhelming, but for Alexia, it’s all part of the journey. Mornings often start on the ice at 7am, followed by lessons mid-morning, and afternoons filled with ballet, conditioning, or off-ice training. Evenings are spent with family, attending church, or enjoying time at Brownies.
Her background in ballet and solid coaching foundation, especially under the guidance of Barbie Hawkes, have helped her transition smoothly into solo dance.
Alexia’s talent has taken her beyond South African borders. In 2024 and early 2025, she represented the country in several international competitions. Her proudest moment was winning her first event overseas in Slovenia and surpassing the 30-point mark for the first time.
However, it hasn’t all been smooth skating. She recalls a tough competition in Sofia where things did not go as planned.
“I had a bad skate and felt really upset,” she admits. “But I learned that even great skaters have off days. That doesn’t mean you’re a bad skater.”
Her resilience is as impressive as her talent. With a strong support system that includes her family, coach, and faith, Alexia is motivated to chase her dreams. Short-term, she’s aiming to land her double axel in competition, win another international title, and qualify for her first ISU solo dance event in Paris. Long-term? The Olympic Games in 2034 are firmly in her sights.
She might not name a role model, but her biggest inspirations are close to home,
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“I couldn’t have done any of this without the support of my coach, Barbie Hawkes, and my dad.”
Sources: Supplied
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