Testimonials
“The first time I saw Sonya ride, I knew I was watching something special. Her ease of balance, the freedom of movement her horses have, the joy in which she rides. It was something I had never seen nor thought I could achieve as a rider. Within a few weeks Sonya had my horse moving more correctly and more freely and me riding more balanced and with more confidence than I could have imagined. Sonya brings a refreshing purity of spirit I personally haven’t come across in the horse world, mixed with her depth of knowledge of biomechanics, her unwavering commitment to bring out the best in you and your horse and her kind and encouraging way of teaching all combines to make Sonya the rarest of gems.”
— Erica Tibbetts
Rancho Santa Fe, California
“Sonya is the kind of young horse trainer we all pray for. She’s kind, clear, consistent and firm in her requests. My young guy went from being incredibly resentful and petulant from a previous bad experience with a trainer to being forward, happy and trustworthy.
Sonya can RIDE.
No matter what he threw at her, giant rears and big bucks, she would calmly but firmly get him through it and show him that he’s safe in the process.
Her communication the entire time she had him was so incredible. Picking up on when he could use some bodywork, immune support and all the cute videos! It made having him away be so gentle on my heart.
Having someone with such incredible timing and clarity is so rare and I’m so grateful for her ability to spend time with him. He came home happy, confident and ready to enjoy some dressage and cattle work with me.
If you’re even considering sending your horse to her, just do it. It’s the best decision you could make for them <3”
— Celeste Lazaris, Founder BTMM
Oregon
“ My horse “Berry” and I have been under the guidance and care of Sonya for a few months and I could not be happier. Sonya has made me and my horse feel right at home. She is an incredibly talented rider, a patient and understanding instructor and she has a very gentle approach with the horses, which I really love. In addition to taking exceptional care of the horses, I also appreciate how communicative, approachable and supportive she is. Sonya has helped to make a stable composed of different trainers and disciplines a peaceful place to ride and be with your horse.”
—Christy Thurston
Rancho Santa Fe, California
“The first time I met Sonya, I knew instantly that I needed her in my life as my trainer and mentor. After taking 15 years away from horses, I recently returned to riding as an adult. Coming back, I found myself much more aware of the ethics of horse ownership and the importance of riding correctly. Still, I felt lost when it came to finding a trainer I could truly trust - someone who prioritized the horse first.
Sonya truly walks the walk. She is the essence of a horsewoman: deeply dedicated to the well-being of the horse while also being collaborative and in tune with the rider. Even though I’ve only been working with her a few short months, I’ve already noticed a huge difference in my riding and confidence.
I am so excited to continue this journey with her and honestly can’t imagine training with anyone else now that I’ve experienced the ‘Sonya way’”.
— Rachel Riley
Encinitas, California