Meet Our Coaches
Sarah French
Background
Born and raised in Langley, BC, Sarah has spent most of her life immersed in the equestrian world. As a junior, she trained under Bobbi Reber and Canadian Olympian Mark Laskin, competing successfully in hunters, equitation, and jumpers. After high school, she stepped away from competition to complete a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of British Columbia, returning to riding after starting her family.
Competition & Coaching
Sarah has competed in a wide range of disciplines, including hunters, equitation, jumpers, dressage, eventing, and general performance Western classes. For pleasure, she enjoys foxhunting and proudly holds her colours with the Fraser Valley Hounds. As a coach, Sarah specializes in a multi-disciplinary approach and integrates trauma-informed methods, focusing on building confidence, skill, and strong partnerships between horse and rider.
Credentials
- Licensed Equestrian Canada Coach
- Certified CHA English and Western Instructor
- Active competitor across multiple disciplines
Ian Veenendaal
Background
Born and educated in Zimbabwe, Ian studied Agriculture and Farm Management while building his riding career. At the time, show jumping in Zimbabwe was too small to support full-time professionals, so Ian balanced a career with competing at the highest level on a select number of horses. Prior to sanctions in Zimbabwe, he competed successfully on the highly competitive A-grade (1.40m–1.45m) circuit, including regular international outings. After leaving Zimbabwe, he worked in West Sussex, England for three years before relocating to Canada in late 2008.
Competition & Coaching
Ian has represented Zimbabwe internationally, including multiple Nations’ Cups, and has coached riders to success at FEI levels. One of his students placed 4th at the FEI World Challenge Show Jumping Final in Germany in 2005.
Career Highlights
- 1985 – Represented Zimbabwe in Show Jumping at the Nations’ Cup in Austria
- 1986 – Represented Zimbabwe in Show Jumping against Australia (Nations’ Cup, held in Zimbabwe)
- 1994 – Represented Zimbabwe in Show Jumping against South Africa (held in Zimbabwe)
Credentials
- National Competition Course Designer with FEI affiliation
- Licensed Equestrian Canada Coach
- Certified Pony Club Coach