Who we are

At the Riding Academy at WFEC, we are more than just a riding school, we are a sanctuary for horse lovers of all ages and experience levels.

We are dedicated to nurturing well-rounded horse enthusiasts and skilled riders. Our comprehensive approach emphasizes building life skills such as teamwork, empathy, dedication, and responsibility.

From foundational knowledge to advanced riding, we ensure students gain hands-on experience that fosters growth both in and out of the saddle.

Our safe and well trained horses are the backbone of our program. We make sure their well-being always comes first, making sure they get the best care and 7 weeks off a year.

Get to know more about us through our socials!

Meet our Team


  • Rainbow Riders Instructor

    Georgia is a trusted leader when it comes to teaching and handling horses. Georgia is a busy bee and teaches across the central coast, and we’re so thankful to have her in our midst for our Adaptive and Rainbow Riders classes

  • Founder and Lead Instructor

    Laura’s passion has been horses since a very young age and she is excited to share this inspiration with anyone who wants to learn.

    Laura’s mentor graduated from the esteemed equestrian program at Meredith Manor and Laura was fortunate to have been able to gain a strong equestrian foundation both riding and showing horses under her instruction.

    Laura also finds fulfillment through the process of rehabbing, restarting, and rehoming off-the-track thoroughbred horses.

    Laura is an advocate for establishing a real connection with your horse. She currently enjoys learning more about Natural Horsemanship methods and Liberty training.

    Laura now brings over 30 years of equestrian experience to The Riding Academy.

    She is actively pursuing her PATH Certification to combine with her extensive background as a Registered Nurse with plans to develop a therapeutic riding program to serve our local community in the near future.

    Laura founded The Riding Academy in hopes of establishing a quality riding school in the Santa Maria area that serves its community by educating riders both in the proper technique and responsible animal care.

  • Academy Director

    Eve (Evelynn without the Lynn) is an avid outdoors enthusiast and animal lover. Her passion for equestrian sports started at a young age. Life (as it does) kept her busy and away from the sport for a few years, but she started again in Laura’s “Back in the Saddle” adult classes and is dedicated to ensuring the program’s health

    You can find Eve out at the barn helping ground buddy our rainbow riders, practicing equine body work, and making sure our horses are well cared for.

Meet our Horses

  • Henry

    Rainbow Riders & Up

    Hey there! I’m Henry. I’m 9 years old, I love apples, and I’m a real honest guy.

    Nicknames: Theodore Henry Adams Brooks the 4th, glorious steed

  • Mars

    Green Ribbon & Up

    Welcome to my beautiful home! My name is Mars. I’m a 9 year old Labrador in a Thoroughbred body. Sky’s the limit with me!

    Nicknames: Marsupial, Marzipan

  • Marshmallow

    Yellow Riders & Up

    Hello! I’m Marshmallow. I’m a 16 year old quarter horse. I love trail riding, grazing, and I just know we’re going to make the best team!

    Nicknames: Jesse, Jesse James

  • Squishy

    Rainbow & Red Leadliner

    Let’s go ride! I’m a been there done that type of horse and I will steal your heart.

    Nicknames: distinguished gentleman

Contact us

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!