LAURA SANTANA (Owner/Trainer)

  Being involved in horses started at a very early age.

  Galloping on the beaches of Malibu on a pony named

  “Sugar Baby,” Santana's dedication and passion grew

  quickly.  Riding at Far West Farms with the Karazissis,

  she gained knowledge and a reputation for the one to

  beat.  As her junior career flourished she won numerous

  year-end PCHA Equitation Championships, as well as,

  the CPHA Foundation Medal Finals and the SFVHSA

  Medal Finals.  She also was a consistent top placer in
  the USET and ASPCA Finals. 

Laura continued her winning ways as an Amateur and broadened her knowledge and riding skills with Karen Healey. With Healey, she quickly made a name in the Amateur Owner Jumpers, in addition to continuing her success in the Adult Equitation.  She won numerous Championships in the A/O Jumpers and competed in her first Grand-Prix in Oregon, placing fourth.

During her early amateur years, Laura “jumped” at an opportunity to work and train in Belgium with John Grey, Anne Symes, and Bruce Goodin. This experience was invaluable for her. Upon her return to the States, she went to work for her mentor, Karen Healey.

Laura has worked for some of the top trainers in the Southern California area, developing her skills that allowed her to open Santana Equestrian Group.  She has worked for Leslie Steele, Lenny Marconi, and DiAnn Langer.

During her time as a professional, she has guided her students to top placings in the Local, Regional and National Medal Finals, Year End Awards, Jumper Championships, and WCAR in Spruce Meadows.

Santana continues to excel in the Jumper Ring and currently competes at all levels from the Green Horses that she is bringing along to the Grand Prix Ring.

Laura is still motivated by the love of horses and teaching people to excel and grow at all levels. Her willingness to embrace the continuing education that the sport demands, is what drives this very talented young trainer and what will bring her longevity and success in the many years to come.  

FACILITY

Santana Equestrian Group is currently located at Hansen Dam Equestrian Center, Barn B.