Ashleigh Sanderson

I am a British-based horse trainer and riding coach from Zimbabwe.

Many years ago, I started out like a lot of instructors by training and qualifying through the British Horse Society, the South African National Equestrian Federation and the International Group of Equestrian Qualifications. I competed across the board - eventing, dressage, show jumping, equitation and showing; ran my own riding school and livery yard and taught all ages and all abilities.

I ticked all the boxes, but teaching frustrated me because though I could see the what, and sense how it needed to be fixed...I couldn't find the words.

Through various circumstances, I found my way to Mary Wanless, of Ride With Your Mind fame, and became an accredited RWYM trainer, being exposed to a totally new way of thinking and explaining.

Now, combining my love of travel, exploring physically and mentally, as well as being a perpetual beginner (I'm always trying out a new sport or hobby) I have turned teaching and learning to equitation on it's head.

I believe that ethical, logical training is essential and possible for anyone, two and four legged; I believe that most limitations can be overcome through understanding and taking a new route, and I believe that the most important trainer at any moment is your four-legged dance partner... If we're on the same page, come and play!