We recently spoke to Sandie Robertson, award-winning showjumper turned global equestrian performance coach, author & columnist. Sandie is also actively involved in our Apprenticeship in Equestrian Sporting Excellence (AESE) program as one of our camp specialists, bringing her wealth of expertise to our learners, focusing particularly on the psychological and emotional aspects of performance within the equestrian realm. AESE is run in proud partnership with British Eventing and British Showjumping.
Hi Sandie! Tell us about how you started out in the equestrian industry?
I didn’t come from ‘horsey’ family, but I feel like I was born with them in my blood. At the age of 14, I purchased a Welsh section A foal with my own money, followed by a 13.2hh Anglo Arab at 16, and the rest was history! I learned by working hands-on at a distant stable, cycling 10 miles daily for training. I completed all my BHS exams up to Stage 4 and later worked with outstanding showjumpers, including those at Olympic standards. This experience greatly improved my horsemanship skills.
My passion for showjumping defined my life until a fall from my 5-year-old horse resulted in a broken back. Despite the challenges, I now view this as a positive experience. It taught me the value of giving back to my body, inspiring me to become certified as a personal trainer, sports therapist, and nutritionist – working with football clubs and riders.
It was during this time that I was back jumping and winning at a level that I hadn’t achieved before, however I was neglecting my mental well-being. I began training in life coaching and hypnosis, which has allowed me to travel all over the world and open two successful practices.
What inspired you to join AESE as one of the camp specialists?
Education is incredibly important to me which is why I love and fully support the AESE program. Programs like AESE and my Elite Equestrian Mind Coaching Academy help ensure that we are sending experienced professionals out into the equestrian industry. It’s such a vast global industry now and to have a sustainable business you must be more than just a rider. There is so much involved in the business, from travel to PR. I believe that if you are professional, deliver what you promise and are prepared to work hard, it’s the best industry in the world to be involved with – it’s limitless.
What have been your highlights so far at the AESE camps?
I have been incredibly impressed by the riders at the camps I’ve attended. My highlight has been witnessing their thirst for knowledge and the challenges that they have overcome to be there, they have all been exceptional!
Do you have any advice to those wishing to follow in a similar career path?
The most valuable lesson that I want to share with learners is to seize every opportunity to learn, and never stop being curious!
To find out more information about Apprenticeship in Equestrian Sporting Excellence (AESE), click here.
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