The Work

My work as a coach is guided by principles over methods, depth over trends, and integration over shortcuts.

I believe — in horsemanship and in life — that principles are superior to rules. Rules seek compliance; principles require engagement of the mind and heart. They are timeless.

My journey has been influenced by exceptional horsemen and women, and horses from diverse backgrounds, and by my own life-altering experiences.

Because of this, my work holds the essence and voice of the old and the new, the English and the Western, the whole and the broken — the ALL that life brings.

At the heart of this work are the essentials: Feel. Timing. Balance. And an unwavering integrity to the horse’s mental and physical welfare above personal agenda or ego.

My work is informed by historical horsemanship and the Vertikal path, focusing on true balance, self-carriage, and collection — not forcing a frame, but building the horse from the inside out. You will not find shortcuts, gadgets, mechanical fixes, or blame. You will find thoughtful progression, personal accountability, and respect for the horse as a whole being. I believe great riding begins with self-awareness, not dominance, and that lasting change comes through inspiration rather than confrontation.

My experience includes running a stud, working with foals and youngstock, handling wild horses, colt starting, and competing in obstacle racing, cowboy dressage, and mountain trail. Alongside this, I have developed practical skills in barefoot trimming, rehabilitation, correct nutrition, lifestyle management, and ethical horse keeping.

This breadth has shaped a holistic approach to horsemanship. Training does not exist in isolation — soundness, balance, mindset, management, environment, and education are inseparable.

I have seen the long-term value of this integrated philosophy in my own horses and breeding program.

My passion lies in foundations and in empowering riders, not creating dependence. My aim is to give students the understanding, feel, and confidence to self propel their training with clarity and responsibility.

If you want to be a true “Rider”— not just a passenger —If you want to add value to your horse’s life and if you are committed to growth, education and ethical Horsemanship, then I’d love to work with you.

Because it isn’t just Horsemanship. Its Lifemanship.

— Tamara Coakley

Affinity Equitation