Sophia Hoekstra

Sophia brings a wealth of experience to the Santa Fe area. For nearly a decade, she served as Head Instructor of the Lost Creek Ranch’s residential camp program, introducing over 700 beginners to ridiang. She has worked with and developed riders of all ages, disciplines, and experience levels.

Sophia has worked and excelled at every level of the equine industry starting as a youth “barn rat” cleaning stalls and working her way through internships to an assistant trainer position; she has managed a large camp program as well as instructing and coaching students for years.

It was Sophia’s constant devotion to expanding her knowledge that led her to take an initial interest in regional competition with the Western Dressage Association of America. She is a 4x Top 10 title holder at the Western Dressage World Championship Show in the Open division and has shown horses of many levels from newly started colts to seasoned show veterans.

“The two words that best describe my teaching style: Patient and understanding.”
— S. HOEKSTRA
Whether a person is looking to ride for the first time, is an accomplished equestrian, or is looking for a fun new activity for their child, Sophia’s experience as both a trainer and instructor has taught her that quality learning for both horses and humans is best developed in a supportive, encouraging atmosphere. (Source)