"I had the privilege of meeting Alex because of a leased horse who was in her care. An older horse who was set in her ways, but Alex pushed us to improve and be the best we could be. After her retirement Alex never gave up on me and pushed me to search for another partner, when another lease was not available in our area, we began the daunting search to buy a horse. Working with Alex who was familiar with my abilities and willing to listen to my wish list and goals we were able to really connect on what really mattered and what would fit into my lifestyle. Our shopping journey was emotion filled with highs and lows; Alex was with me every step of the way. There were many nervous first rides and many tears that followed but each time we reevaluated our wish list and eventually found the horse. A brand-new young horse, a young horse with an Adult Ammy would be a recipe for disaster, but he was the right choice and has developed into a very kind and gentle young man. We have been in full training with Alex since our purchase and he is now one of the family, he loves his Auntie Alex and enjoys being at “school”. We have worked hard to preserve his character and ensure that he approaches dressage happily and will continue to do so. His willingness is unmeasurable, he puts his full trust in us and never says no to a new activity. We took him to his first show, he was such a good citizen. Every moment from arriving and out of the trailer he was polite, he experienced the bustling world of the Horse Park at Woodside and conquered the warmup ring. We learned that he enjoys being in a formal show ring and getting dressed up in his whites. Switching handlers from myself to Alex was never a problem, he was never barn sour or hesitant to leave his barn buddies. He was brave and confident (you’d never guess it was his first outing) at Training Level, with Alex on board they were able to achieve a high point score in each class. The score was never the goal, our goal was being a good citizen and learning about show life, he schooled us both on expecting more, he met us every step of the way. Alex and I shared tears of joy and pride and have so many memories with him. Our story isn’t over, we have so much more to do and will stay partnered with Alex as long as we can. There is no thanks or gratitude that will ever convey what kind of experience this has been, all it takes is a coach that believes and encourages that little light in each of us" 

Update: After helping Sara and Esconello EDI build a solid foundation, Sara has been the one in the saddle ever since, and their partnership continues to flourish! She recently participated in her first off-property clinic with Claudio Oliveira, introducing piaffe and passage, and received numerous compliments on her riding and her talented horse!