“I recently returned from my second trip to Elite Andalusians in Southwestern Spain in Andalusia. It was magnificent once again! Sarah-Jane is a truly passionate classical trainer dedicated to keeping her “Mob” healthy, happy and safe. Her impeccable attention to detail begins with the extraordinary care for her horses, as well as her lovely yard. That’s where the real work begins – getting to know each horse and gaining their trust. It’s remarkable the sense of peace they impart and how loving and giving they truly are. The work in liberty, lunging and riding mirrors that discipline that comes from observing, feeling and finding your center with the horses. I’ve never learned as much from any other trainer than I have from Sarah-Jane. The techniques and knowledge she teaches takes time to practice and I’m still learning something new from my horses every day. She has given me a whole new perspective on horsemanship – but more importantly, a greater connection with my horses and all those in my care. What a GIFT- one that keeps giving if you truly devote yourself to the care and love of the horse! I’m looking forward to your online lectures and lessons as well. Thank you so much SJ – you are remarkable and I’m proud to know you!.” Mary Pat Halaska, September 2023, Waukesha (USA).
“Sarah-Jane from Elite Andalusians has a wealth of knowledge and experience about all equestrian matters which she loves teaching and sharing with those who wish to truly observe and learn. She is calm, considerate, patient and very fair to horses and people alike and has a heart of gold. I have been around horses all my life but I know there are always so many new things to learn. I have thoroughly enjoyed many a varied session taught by Sarah-Jane, improving my horsemanship skills, groundwork, in-hand, lunging, riding and learning how to bond and connect with horses in liberty, using my voice cues, energy and body language. I have recently bought two young horses of my own which Sarah-Jane helps me with in so many special ways, with invaluable groundwork and ridden skills. I have learnt and progressed so much thanks to her knowledge and mindset. I strongly recommend anyone to receive education and tuition from Elite Andalusians. Individual or group lessons, internships, on site in Andalucía, Spain, or through the many on-line educational options offered on the Elite Andalusians website. I cannot thank you enough Sarah-Jane for your time and willingness to give and do so much to help horses and people. For your huge continual efforts and contribution to making the horse world a kinder and better place.” Stephanie Timms, August 2023, Chiclana de la Frontera (Spain).
“Hi all! Marco from Italy here, my August 2022 trip through Spain and Portugal had a 2 week working & training holiday at SJ’s. I was looking for a way to learn more about the magnificent Spanish PRE breed in a down to earth and practical fashion. I experienced the hard work centreed on keeping her fantastic horses healthy, in shape and happy and I learned many things about the well-being and specificities of PRE’s. After the hard work every afternoon I had my horse riding class full of small details that definitely changed and improved my classical riding skills with the help of Master Quis Qui. SJ’s stories about her horse riding experience and her knowledge about Iberian breeds are fascinating and I definitely would encourage anyone willing to know more about it to engage her. PS if you’re into dogs, you’ll love it double!!” Marco, August 2023, Italy
Marco and Quis Qui
“When I was looking for an international internship I knew I wanted to go somewhere to learn and have an amazing experience. S-J and her beautiful horses really made that goal come true. I absolutely enjoyed working at the farm because everything was done to make sure the horses were taken the best care of. The horses were really priority one. I also loved all the lessons from groundwork to lunging and riding. It did teach me a lot about the way of working with horses but, also about myself. S-J is just an amazing person who will really pays attention to the little details and tweaks you until you are the best version of yourself. She is an amazing teacher and you can also see it back in the lovely horses she has. I am really grateful for the experience and learning a lot at Elite Andalusians and will for sure be back! I would recommend it to anyone who is not afraid to work hard to really improve themselves.” Lara, May 2023, The Netherlands
“I wanted to buy an Andalusian horse and my trainer recommended Sarah-Jane. After receiving the search criteria, S-J searched for 6 options, which I flew to Cadiz for the weekend to look at. It quickly became clear that S-J has excellent contacts with reliable and high-quality breeders, veterinarians, shoemakers in Andalusia. All the horses presented to us by her were wonderful and it was very difficult to choose the most suitable one from the top three. I ended up buying a 5-year-old Hispano-Arabic and S-J’s help was invaluable in the overall care of things! I was in Finland and she organized the purchase inspection, castration, took the horse to her home stable to recover from the operation, arranged for the dentist, farrier and suitable equipment for the horse (saddle and bridle). She took care of the trace papers as well and when the horse had fully recovered, she helped to organize the trip to Finland with Marcel Jordan transport. My lovely Titan-horse has adapted well to Finland. Sarah-Jane is absolutely amazing, 10+, she has made the whole process of buying a horse safe and so much more! I can only warmly recommend S-J if you are looking for a new horse in the Andalusia region.” Marjo Kokko-Kiviluoma, Helsinki, June 2023, Finland
“When I started to look for an Andalucian horse I was recommended to by a friend of mine to contact Sarah-Jane Clarke in Spain. So I did. After receiving several videos of potential horses I planned a 4 day trip to Spain. I tried out several horses within my budget and ended up in a lucky position to make a hard choice between two favourites. The whole trip to Spain was worth every penny. I learned a lot about the PRE horse and ended up with a beautiful black gelding ” Imbasor”. Sarah- Jane helped to arrange the transport to Finland and a month later Imbasor arrived in our yard. Now I have had the horse for over half a year. He has exceeded all my expectations by far and is my best horse ever. I can warmly recommend Sarah-Jane Clarke.” Carita Antell, June 2023, Finland
“Hi there! I am Kelsy I am from the Netherlands and in 2022 I did my internship at Elite Andalusians by Sarah – Jane. I do a bilingual course about horses which requires a internship in an other country. When I started looking for a internship I instantly had the thought of going to Spain because of the beautiful horses and the interesting way of classical riding. That’s when I came across Elite Andalusians via the website stagemarkt, which is a Dutch site with verified internships on it. I had an amazing time being there and working with amazing Spanish horses. Sarah–Jane will teach you lots about being one with your horse and training your balance. You will go back to zero and start with working on the lunge. Be aware that horses also come along with work. When you finish all the chores you work with the horses and can even explore the beautiful Spanish area. You will also get opportunities to go with Sarah–Jane on horse related trips.” Kelsy, February 2023, The Netherlands
“I’ve spent a month as an intern at Elite Andalusians with S-J and all her beautiful animals. I really enjoyed the work there, that was all about caring for the animals and pampering them. All the lessons (liberty work, lungeing and riding) were so interesting and I’ve learned many new things and approaches to horses and riding in general. S-J is an amazing teacher, who will nicely make you aware of your weaknesses and help you correct them. She has a gentle and very respectful approach with her animals and her horses are amazingly trained, what makes them a pure joy to ride! I definitely learned a lot of things with her and would recommend this internship to anyone wanting to improve their riding.” Sophie, January 2023, Switzerland
Los Caños de Meca, January 2023
“I have done a three-month (02/2022 until 05/2022) internship at Elite Andalusians and been guide by a truly genuine person Sarah-Jane Clarke, who is a professional horse trainer, teaches her students the proper way of horsemanship. All horses are highly trained and very-well behaved with unique personalities. 💖 Recommend 100% to everyone, who want to learn about Spanish horse and correct way of riding!” Ernesta Jaučikaitė, June 2022, Lithuania
Ernesta and Elite Andalusians Beleño X
“Sarah Jane is an amazing horse woman and lovely person, I was fortunate enough to be able to have a couple of liberty lessons with her-watching her work and working myself with two of her gorgeous stallions! I learnt a lot and am definitely going to be coming back for a two week working holiday in the not too distant future!” Zoe Thorner, October 2018, UK
“I had the most amazing time having booked the weekend course of 4 lessons. Sarah-Jane is extremely talented and this is reflected in her horses training and the lovely bond that she has with her horses. Having not ridden for a few years the lessons were pitched at the right level to ease me back in but also giving me the opportunity to ride some advanced movements on the fabulous Quis Qui. I absolutely loved the weekend and will most definitely return. Thank you so much Sarah-Jane and Quis Qui.” Fiona Stewart, October 2018, UK
“Amazing place, where riding is an art, not just a sport. Well-trained horses, proffesional and relaxed atmosphere, which helps you to connect very deeply with the animals. Very individual lessons, during which the best training methods for your body are discovered. Learning not only to ride correctly, but to actually feel and understand horse’s body language in various situations. Recommend 100%!” Milda Baltrimaite, August 2018, Lithuania
“I was on a working stay program for a month. It was such an incredible learning experience! I learnt so much about yard routines, working efficiently in the yard, managing different types of horses with different needs and of course about riding horses as well. I’m so grateful for the experience and for all of S-J’s advice and mentorship!” Lumana Mulaffer, August 2018, Quatar
“There are not enough words to describe this experience – enlightening and incredibly special! Sarah-Jane’s talent and heart for her horses, her dogs and the people she meets is beautiful. x” Fiona RHC, June 2018, Ireland
“Sarah-Jane visits Finland regularly. She has been coming here for over fifteen years to give lessons to her faithful students. New people are becoming very open to her training philosophy every time. I think one of the reasons is the growing awareness of the state of horse sports and because of that, the interest for horse friendly training “expands”. But, also I am a PRE enthusiast and the number of PRE’s are growing in our country. PRE’s are docile and clever horses that want to please humans. I have helped organize S-J’s clinics here for some time now. It is always a total pleasure. I highly recommend people at every level to visit her finca in Conil, Spain and meet her beautiful horses. Go there and learn to listen to a horse. Especially if you crave for one of your own. I recommend you to try the horses first. See how sensitive they are and feel them move as they are supposed to move.” Jeppe Maarit Puuperä, President of the Finnish Association of the PRE, March 2018 Helsinki, Finland
My PRE Relente and I
“Sarah Jane is the consummate professional and top notch trainer, rider and instructor. Anyone would benefit from a working holiday with her. Well worth it. The horses are exquisite. Aside from that there is lots of “field trips” that are fun and invaluable experience. Its a safe, sane, healthy environment. Beautiful facility.” Marjorie E Dowell, March 2018, Redwood Retreat Classical Riding School, California USA
“The best (working holiday) experience ever!😍
Sarah-Jane is the most wonderful and professional trainer I have ever met! So amazing just to watch her working with all those horses, their communication full of understanding, trust and respect for each other but also love and joy of being together!
Sarah-Jane gives you the opportunity not only to improve your balance, riding skills or knowledge of liberty work but also the opportunity to really SEE the horse and connect with them on a completely different level! 🦄♥️
Whatever experience you are looking for, S-J will guide you on any way you choose is the right one for you! 😍” Michaela Jongerius Kaplanova, February 2018, Holland
“I found Sarah-Jane by lucky chance when trying to help a friend of mine locate quality dressage training in Spain. I was intrigued by her concept of “Compassionate Dressage” and by the two courses “Communication and Behavior” and “True Balance in Horse and Rider”. I contacted her and she was able to put together a 4.5 day course for me that exactly fit my needs. I have had different dressage instruction here and there. “Here” being Spain, Portugal and Denmark. “There” mostly Florida – once even for an extended time with a retired OL coach. With all of these, there was little effective explanation of the aids and I always seemed to be covering the same things over and over again but not so that my riding progressed. I read books on Classical Dressage and tried to apply what I thought I understood in my lessons but it seemed a complicated subject and often conflicted with what the instructors were asking for. Due to a muscle related illness, I am no longer able to ride in the modern dressage way requiring a lot of arm and leg strength that they were asking for and, frustrated, I gave up, deciding to practice what I could on my own. I had no intention of pursuing more instruction for myself and sent the link on to my friend. But something about Sarah-Jane kept nagging at me and so there I found myself, at her place, receiving the best riding instruction I have ever had. She simplified all the concepts and presented them in very obtainable ways. She demystified areas of seeming conflict in the methods of applying cues and she shed light on generally accepted dressage misconceptions. Her beautiful and beautifully trained horses respond perfectly when the aid is applied correctly and are qualified instructors in their own right. And, above all, she and her lovely horses do this with kindness and happiness so that it is a pleasure to learn from them.” Maggie Hoegh, February 2018, Denmark
“I had ten intensive lessons with Sarah-Jane last year. I was at a very low ebb with horses and on the point of giving up. S-J’s and her horses wonderful approach, teaching and empathy, I have found a renewed joy and pleasure in my riding. The horses are super sensitive and so well trained, and they with S-J showed me very kindly and gently where I had been going wrong in my riding and how to correct it. After 10 days I felt like a new person with a renewed enthusiasm for life and I will definitely be back to see S-J, the mob and the most wonderful part of Spain. If you want to improve your seat and balance there is no one better than S-J and her magnificent horses.” Susan Hinton-Smith January 2018 Carlisle, UK
“I have had the pleasure to attend Sarah-Jane’s classes in Finland at out stable Chevaliin for several years now. I absolutely adore her “magic” touch on the rider and the horse. She has amazing skills to make even the not-so-experienced riders, like me, to get in so close contact with the horse that transitions start to happen by the means of breathing. Whatever the starting point (e.g. a spooky day for a horse), she leads us to perfect harmony in forty-five minutes. I would call Sarah-Jane’s riding lessons a riding therapy at it’s best. I am so waiting for the next lessons.” Anne January 2018 Tuusula, Finland
“I started off by working a five week Internship at “Elite Andalusians” and I instantly fell in love with it. Falling love with S-J´s farm lead me to being the yard manager for one year. I had never worked with horses abroad before so it was a whole new experienceand I could not have asked for a better one. In the intial five weeks I learn’t more than I could have imagined. S-J has the most wonderful animals and each one so different. I learn’t to work in a whole new way with the horses on the ground, being ridden and even just being around them. I even learn’t what it was like having the responsibility of rescue dogs and the care involved. S-J knows her animals so well and I have never met anyone so intune with animals and so adored by animals. S-J has so much knowledge to share and has taught me so much over my years stay. I am a whole different horse person in the best way possible. What I took from the whole experience I will always hold on to. Once you have been at Elite Andalusians you will never want to leave.” Kirsty Symon 2018, Edinburgh, Scotland.
“We have been spending now for two years on every Spanish vacation time at Sarah-Jane’s place. We will continue doing it, as it is the best part of our holidays; having lessons, or, beach rides with Sarah-Jane and spending time together. I think it is unusual that a trainer can give positive and very motivating lessons for both adults and our 11-year twin girls, but she can do it, and lessons are excellent. Even my husband who is not riding, loves spending time at “Elite Andalusians”, which is important. We came to the farm for the first time, I still remember how Sarah-Jane helped us to find accommodation, even took us to the village, so very generous and empathic person. I have seldom met anyone like her. I really appreciate her principles what Sarah-Jane has for riding, no “quick and dirty learning” stuff but things that last and makes the horses move in a correct way and makes us riders aware how to sit on the saddle better. One other very important thing for me is safety, in this aspect, I trust Sarah-Jane as I trust my family members. Of course thing happen when you deal with horses, but Sarah-Jane really cares about people, animals and safety. Br Outi.” Outi Taivainen January 2018, Finland
“Hi looking forward to this Friday (12th January) at Sarah-Jane’s so I can do some more training and learning from someone who is dedicated to her horses. I have been twice before and always come back with valuable advice. Thankyou so much and my bag is packed…..” Jackie Street, March 2018, Suffolk, UK
“I worked an internship at Elite Andalusians and I loved every second of it! Ofcourse, it was really hard work but that’s normal when you have to take care of all these horses, cats and dogs, but it was all more than worth it. I learned so much in this one month I stayed at Finca Embrujo; How to ride and train horses, how to take good care of the animals, how to communicate with horses, and people and how to enjoy horse riding even more than I already did. Each horse at Elite Andalusians is so special and unique and SJ knows them all so well and that’s very wonderful to see. SJ has taught me so much and I am very thankful for everything she did because she made my stay more than unforgettable. I think that once you have been at this amazing place, you just have to go back, and I will!” Joëlle Bax, January 2018, Holland
“I was so lucky to find Sarah-Jane Clarke at just the right moment in my riding education! I wanted to factor in riding into my family holiday in Spain. S-J enabled me to structure our days around my lessons. Now the important thing I want to say here is that S-J has such experience that she can instantly see where you are and what you need to be working on and will take you forward to the improvements needed. Her instruction is gentle and accurate, and the beautifully trained horses enabled me to be working on my skills. I loved being in hot sunny Spain riding S-J’s wonderful horses and improving my riding in the hands of an excellent trainer. Thank you a perfect holiday.” Janine Falle, December 2017, Deven, UK
Kirsty: “I have known S-J for over 20 years. The first time I saw her ride was on my horse Condor. She made my hair stand on end and I knew that I was watching an amazing rider. Over the years I have been privileged to watch her grow into an amazing intuitive horse woman and trainer. Her horses all have personalities and know they are free to express themselves as horses. They are amazingly sensitive to ride and to work with at liberty. That is a testament to how they are loved, looked after and trained. S-J had my 7 year old daughter (Faith) sitting perfectly at walk and trot on her beautiful horses. As a Mother I had complete trust that she was in the very best of hands and hooves. The gift that you get from S-J and her horses is a sense of learning about yourself and your energy. And, if you are wise enough to appreciate it, you can use it to help you ground yourself in your own life. I always leave grateful, at peace and wishing I could stay.”
Faith: “I love having lessons with S-J. Once I stopped concentrating and nearly fell off Quis Qui. S-J looked after me. My best thing was working with Naranjito free.” S-J is awesome and I can’t wait to go back. Kirsty and Faith Gladwyn, November 2017, Blackwood, Wales
“Once you have experienced a week long Classical Riding course trained by Sarah-Jane, you feel you need to come back. I did and each of the three weeks I have spent there has been a very special moment of learning. Learning from lessons and beach rides. Go and enjoy a very professional coach, on incredible horses in an amazing place.” Myrian Boubles, 2017, Paris
“There are many reasons to fly from New York to Spain to ride with Sarah-Jane. The food, the weather, the scenic hill towns such as Vejer, meeting gorgeous horses etc,. but for me it is the knowledge that I will return home a better rider. S-J’s careful eye and focus on the connection between horse and rider is particularly constructive on the sensitive and responsive Iberian horses.” Gavin Parfit, December 2016, New York, USA
“Sarah-Jane is an inspirational person and exceptional instructor. Making you welcome and at home in her yard. After just a couple of hours it felt like we had known each other years. Her lessons were extremely informative, well explained, while, at the same time, being relaxed and easy to understand. Making me re-think years of riding! Her horsemanship is clearly outstanding having trained these beautiful stallions in such away that they are calm and relaxed allowing anyone to handle and ride them without fear or anxiety (from either party!). I can’t wait for my next visit!” Emiliy Johnson, May 2016, UK
“It is my pleasure to write a testimony for Elite Andalusians. My son and I stayed there and during this stay we were looked after to a very high standard. My son still talks about the hobbit bedroom he was allowed to sleep in. The horses were kept in wonderful condition and it was clear to see that S-J had a beautiful relationship with each, and, every one was cared for and loved dearly. During the stay S-J took us exploring and we have wonderful memories of a visit to the nearby town Vejer de la Frontera. Meandering through the enchanting streets. Everyone was so friendly and I will definitely be visiting again.” Alison Digweed, 2016, New Zealand
“I have always ridden warmbloods competitively but have secretly dreamed about owning a PRE.In 2014 I contacted Sarah-Jane over the internet and started discussions about realising this. After providing her with a detailed brief and budget of what I was looking for, Sarah-Jane found me Esclavo FM. This stunning, tall, dapple grey, 4-year-old stallion was bought by me sight unseen. The cost of flights and time for me to fly from South Africa to Spain was not an option. Sarah-Jane assisted me with multiple photos of his confirmation, videos of him moving and a full 5 stage vet check with 50 x-rays, emailed to me in digital format and with the vet report in perfect English. This made my decision to purchase him easy. All payments, permits and transport arrangements was coordinated with the assistance of Sarah-Jane up until pre-export quarantine in Europe. My wonderful Esclavo FM arrived in South Africa at the end of 2014. I am completely thrilled with this amazing horse. He is everything Sarah-Jane promised and more. We are currently competing in Elementary and winning. Thank you Sarah-Jane!” Candice Hobday 2017, South Africa
“My name is Maria and I am an eventer from Virginia Beach. When I visit Spain in the summer and winter I make sure I stop by S-J’s place, even if it is just for a couple of days. I’ve known S-J for a couple of years now. We met in El Puerto de Santa Maria. S-J and I immediately clicked as she views the horses through very patient and kind eyes while taking a holistic approach. She is strict in her training and her horses have an evident love and respect for her. I’ll help out with the chores and if there is time I will get on. She always starts back at the basics and builds up. By the time you’re finished you take a greater knowledge and understanding of the Spanish horse with you and know what correct riding is. I highly look up to Sarah-Jane as a mentor for her love of horses and never-ending passion for teaching people how the horse should be viewed and respected. If you are considering Elite Andalusians you must have a hard work ethic and a dying passion for horses. At the end of your stay you will leave with a higher knowledge that you will carry for the rest of your life.” Maria Lenway 2016, VA, USA
“My time at the School of Compassionate Dressage has been the most memorable thanks to Sarah-Jane and the Mob who opened my eyes to a whole new World. The experience and knowledge that I have gained over the three weeks cannot be put into words. Most importantly I learn’t that true dressage demands utter precision and understanding between horse and rider. This can only come from many hours spent practicing and bonding with the horse from the ground. Sarah-Jane has nothing but patience and love for all the horses at the yard. She understands that all horses develop different speeds and will not rush them at any cost. I would definately reccomend doing an Internship over here as I have not only learn’t true horsemanship from Sarah-Jane but a huge amount from the Mob also.” Dhruvpal Anchan, May 2016, India
“My internship with Elite Andalusians was filled with work, learning and great new experiences. During my stay I learned so much more about true horsemanship and PRE horses that I could’ve hoped, and yet it was only a fraction of that knowledge Sarah-Jane can give. Trips in the area introduced the local culture and the day in the Royal Spanish Riding school of Jerez was just unforgettable. I’m truly happy having this amazing internship experience, it gave me more than I had ever imagined.” Muusa Takala, May 2016, Finland
“My 2.5 month experience with Sarah-Jane and her “Mob” was hard work. I didn’t know what to expect. The knowledge Sarah-Jane has about how horses work is wonderful. She understands what the horse is telling you. During my Internship I could not experience all what Sarah-Jane had to offer. The time was too short. The accomodation is superb. The horses look their best and are well treated. All in all I would have liked to have stayed longer.” Lilian Kodwym, Summer 2015, Holland
“In a month working with Sarah-Jane on her beautiful stables that is the setting of Elite Andalusians, I learnt more than I have in over a decade of riding lessons. The horses are incredible and so is the instruction in one of the most beautiful landscapes in Spain. Truly an unmissable experience for anyone who is looking to increase thier knowledge of true horseman ship whilst watching a true master at work.” Amy Blank, August 2015, UK