Equestrian Trainer Spotlight: Sherie Levine
In the world of equestrian training, Sherie Levine has transformed both riders and horses into their best versions, one stride at a time.
Sherie Levine has been a San Diego Country Estates resident for 35 years. Her husband's job drew her to Ramona when he was transferred to San Diego, and his love for golf led them to SDCE.
Levine has over 25 years of experience coaching and training equestrians in private, semi-private, and group lessons. She teaches classical and western dressage, show jumping, drille, and general horsemanship. She mainly trains at the International Equestrian Center but also travels to private ranches and training centers. All her instruction is designed to develop confidence and harmony in both horse and rider and maximize a positive relationship and trust.
"My first love is dressage," says Levine. "Because that teaches a skillset that is transferable to all riding disciplines. I teach both classical and western dressage, as well as coach at competitions.
Levine's students have earned many Adult and Junior CDS Championship awards throughout the years, including USDF Bronze Medalist, USDF Silver Medalist, Scholastic Equestrian League Champion, Scholastic Equestrian League, and Reserve Champion. In addition, she is an Approved Instructor and Coach for the San Vicente Pony Club and was part of the United States Pony Club/Southern California Region for over 15 years. "But the most important accomplishment is consistently assisting equestrians of all disciplines to create a harmonious bond with their equine partners," says Levine.
Levine says that riding builds a very special relationship between horse and rider. No matter what discipline one chooses, we must always ensure that communication is clear, fair, and kind. Each rider/horse pair needs something a little different. She focuses on ways to enhance the experience for both horse and rider by providing a safe and fun environment and building a "toolbox" to help them become more independent and successful, whether they are showing at rated shows, trail riding, or anything in between. It's all about building confidence and a harmonious partnership. Once we establish that, the magic happens!
Her inspiration to become a trainer began when she and her husband moved to SDCE, and she started riding as an adult. She kept outgrowing her trainers, or the training seemed lacking in depth or kindness toward the horse. She started to attend as many continuing education opportunities as possible. Her daughter was a member of the San Vicente Pony Club, and they asked her to assist, and it grew from there. She still tries to attend as many clinics and learning opportunities as possible so she can provide her riders with the best possible information.
Her approach to training horses and riders is all about listening, observing, and communicating. Finding out the best way the horse receives information helps her guide the rider. It's a three-way partnership. Building confidence and harmony for both horse and rider is key. She takes her riders to shows all over the region, which is very educational. She is involved with different professional organizations to stay current on rules and trends. Horses and riding are a never-ending education. "I love it so much!"
She hosts and teaches a variety of clinics throughout the year, such as Cavaletti, Dressage from the Judge's Point of View, Diva Day with riding, pampering, and wine tasting, and she is currently planning an Equestrian Retreat for Spring 2025.
"Horses are magical creatures," says Levine. "They are not like any other animal. They are so giving and generous in their own way. They allow us to dance with them. You just have to listen, and with the right training and education, the magic will develop. It's hard to describe, but it truly is something special."
If you are interested in training with Levine, she has many references available upon request. You can contact her at the following:
Sherie Levine
760-522-0939 cell
760-789-6350 office
